Go Back

Cinnamon Apple Pie Poke Cake Dessert

A delightful layered dessert combining the flavors of apple pie and a creamy poke cake, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 20 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 226
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1 box white cake mix, prepared as a 13×9-inch cake Follow package instructions.
For the apple filling
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 cups peeled, diced apples Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the pudding topping
  • 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups milk Use whole, 2%, or dairy-free milk as preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 container (12 oz) whipped topping, thawed Or use homemade whipped cream.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prepare the white cake in a 13×9-inch pan according to the directions on the cake mix box. Meanwhile, start preparing the apple filling.
  2. In a large skillet, whisk together the brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Heat over medium-high until it bubbles, then stir in the diced apples. Lower the heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes until apples are tender.
Assembly
  1. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, poke holes all over it with a wooden spoon handle or fork. Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the hot cake, then spread the apple mixture evenly over the top.
  2. Refrigerate the cake for 3-4 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
  3. While the cake chills, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
  4. Just before serving, gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the chilled pudding mixture. Spread over the cold cake, then slice and serve.

Notes

For best results, do not overcook the apples. Chill the cake for at least 3 to 4 hours to allow flavors to meld. You can also prepare the cake the day before serving.