Imagine a dessert that marries the tangy zest of lemons with the sweet, moist texture of cake - that's the beauty of a Pilsbury Lemon Poke Cake. This delightful confection is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to whip up for any occasion. Whether you're looking to impress at a potluck or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the heart of the preparation, gather these essentials:
- 1 box Pilsbury Lemon Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1⁄2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 package (3 oz.) lemon gelatin mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1⁄2 cup cold water
- 1 can (16 oz.) lemon pie filling
- 1 container (8 oz.) whipped topping, thawed
🍋 Note: For an extra zesty kick, consider adding the zest of a fresh lemon to the cake mix.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. Mix the Cake Batter
Combine the Pilsbury Lemon Cake Mix with 1 cup of water, 1⁄2 cup of vegetable oil, and 3 eggs in a large mixing bowl. Beat at medium speed until smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remember, baking times might vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
4. Poke Holes
Once the cake is out of the oven and still hot, take the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer and poke holes all over the cake. The holes should be about 1 inch apart to ensure the lemon gelatin mixture soaks in well.
5. Add Lemon Gelatin
Dissolve the lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, then stir in 1⁄2 cup of cold water. Pour this mixture evenly over the hot cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
6. Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or until the gelatin has set. This step ensures that your cake has a delightful, moist texture throughout.
7. Spread the Lemon Pie Filling
Once the cake is chilled, spread the lemon pie filling over the top of the cake, using a spatula to ensure even coverage.
8. Add Whipped Topping
Finish by spreading the whipped topping over the lemon pie filling. For a professional touch, you can use a piping bag to create swirls or rosettes.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch of elegance:
- Garnish with thin lemon slices or lemon zest curls.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a snow-like finish.
🎨 Note: A sprinkle of poppy seeds can add a delightful texture and a slight crunch.
Wrapping Up the Lemon Adventure
This Pilsbury Lemon Poke Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to simplicity and flavor. The recipe’s straightforward nature makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels while delivering a burst of citrusy joy with every slice. From its preparation to its presentation, every aspect of this cake is designed to impress and satisfy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this cake will bring a little zest to your life.
Can I use different flavors of gelatin?
+
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors like orange or lime gelatin to match or complement the lemon theme.
How long will this cake keep?
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Stored in the refrigerator, this cake can last up to 4-5 days, covered.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
+Absolutely, the flavors meld together beautifully when made a day in advance, enhancing its taste.
