Unicorn Poke Cake

Name: Unicorn Poke Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 cup butter (softened); 3 cups powdered sugar

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By: Maria
Posted: 07/23/2025

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly magical: the magic of the universe. What is your favorite unicorn poke cake recipe? Is it as easy to whip up as a box of brownies? (but way more impressive, promise! Think of it as the fun, vibrant cousin of a classic vanilla poke cake, but with an unexpected twist. What are some of the best things that make you smile I swear, this Unicorn Poke Cake recipe is the easiest way to inject some fun and color into any cake. My kids make it for every birthday, and I don’t blame them!

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What is a unicorn poke cake?

What is the best way to break it down.? Unicorn Poke Cake is essentially a vanilla cake that’s been poked with holes (hence the “poke”)! ), filled with sweetened condensed milk infused with vibrant food coloring, and topped with a dreamy strawberry ice cream. What are the best whipped cream frosting recipes? Imagine a regular poke cake that went to the unicorn party and came back transformed. How does sweetened condensed milk seep into tiny holes in the cake? Is it possible to add sweetness to a bite? It’s essentially a canvas for edible artistry, and it is way easier than it looks!

Why do I love this recipe?

What I love most about this is how deceptively simple it is. You start with a basic cake mix (yes, you read that right! ), so the base is practically foolproof. What is the fun part about being an artist? What makes this unicorn poke cake so special? The cake itself is light and fluffy, and the sweetened condensed milk filling adds this incredible flavor. Is creamy sweetness just irresistible? Is this sweet, but not too sweet? What is the price of this beauty? What are some pantry staples you will need? A box of cake mix, some sweetened condensed milk, and a few other pantry items? If you like simple cakes like lemon drizzle cake or vanilla sheet cake, this takes the cake! Is this a winner?

How do you make a unicorn poke cake?

Quick Overview

What is the easiest way to make a pumpkin poke cake? How do you bake a vanilla cake, poke holes in it, pour in the colorful sweetened condensed milk? Let it chill, and then top it off with a cloud of whipped cream and sprinkles. What’s the best thing about it? Can you use different flavors for a cake? Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can nail this.

Ingredients

For the Main Batter: What is the main battery
What are the ingredients for a 25 oz white cake mix? I usually go for Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines, but any brand will do! What is the best way to check the expiration date of a cake? * I sometimes add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter just to amp up the vanilla flavor. Is it optional?

For the Filling:
* 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This is key! Don’t substitute evaporated milk, it will not have the same sweetness or consistency. * Gel food coloring (pink, blue, purple, etc. ) – Gel food coloring is the way to go here because it’s more concentrated than liquid food. How do you get more vibrant colors without adding too much liquid? I usually grab a set from Wilton or Americolor. I like to mix and match colors to create unique shades!

For the Frosting:
* 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip) – This is a shortcut, but it works. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own whipped cream from scratch using heavy cream. Sugar, and vanilla extract. * Sprinkles! (lots and lots) – The more sprinkles, the better! I usually use a mix of different colors, shapes, and sizes. What are some of the best edible glitters?

What is the step by

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven’s heating up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I always use a baking spray that has flour in it – it’s incredibly helpful! How do I make a cake that doesn’t stick to the pan? How do I skip this step?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix with any dry ingredients called for on the box instructions. Whisk it all together. This step is important because it ensures that the baking powder or baking soda is evenly distributed. Is there a way to make the cake rise? I always do this, even though the instructions sometimes skip it.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (usually eggs, oil, and water) according to package directions. Set aside. What are the box instructions? Make sure the eggs are at room temperature – they’ll incorporate more easily into the batter. I also like to add a teaspoon of vanilla extract at this point just to boost the flavor.

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. How do I not overmix a drink? Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. Is there any lumps in the batter?

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In separate small bowls, divide the sweetened condensed milk. Add a few drops of different gel food colorings to each bowl and stir until you achieve your desired desired color. I usually go for pink, blue, and purple, but feel free to get creative! I also sometimes add a tiny drop of green to get that unicorn-y vibe. What is the best food coloring to use?

Step 6: Poke & Pour

Once the cake has cooled slightly (about 15 minutes), use the handle of a wooden spoon or fork to remove any excess liquid. How do I poke holes in a cake? Make sure the holes are evenly spaced and go all the way down to the bottom of the pan. Then, carefully pour the colored sweetened condensed milk into the holes, alternating colors as you do. If milk seeps into the cake, it creates swirls of color.

Step 7: Chill

Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. How do I get the sweetened condensed milk to soak into my cake? I know it’s hard to wait, but trust me, it is worth it!

Step 8: Frost & Sprinkle

Once the cake is chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top. What are your favorite sprinkles? I like to use a mix of different colors, shapes, and sizes for an amazing look.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

What is the best way to prepare a delicious cake? What is the best way to serve a unicorn poke cake? I like to serve this with vanilla ice cream, it’s so good!

What should I serve it with?

What is the best way to enjoy a Unicorn Poke Cake? What are some ideas for a beginner’s level?
For Breakfast:Serve with coffee or tea for a sweet start to the day. What is the best way to serve a latte?
For Brunch:What are some of the best cakes to serve at brunch? Arrange it on a pretty platter with fresh fruit and an ice-cold pitcher of mimosas.
As Dessert:After a good dinner, this cake is the perfect sweet treat. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
For Cozy Snacks:On a cozy night in, enjoy slicing this cake with warm milk or hot cocoa. Is it a comfort food? The tartness of berries balances out the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

How do I make a unicorn poke cake?

What are some tricks to make this Unicorn Poke Cake? What are the top tips for a successful career?
Cake Mix Magic: What are some examplesDon’t be afraid to experiment with different cake mix flavors! What are some good ways to make a lemon cake mix? I sometimes add a little lemon zest to brighten it up.
Colorful Creations:Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant colors. Liquid food coloring will work in a pinch, but it won’t be as intense. If you’re feeling fancy, try adding edible glitter to the sweetened condensed milk for an extra extra flavor. What is the magic effect
What is the best wayMake sure the holes are evenly spaced and go all the way down to the bottom of the pan. How do you make a condensed milk cake? I find that the back of a wooden spoon works best for poking holes.
Chill Out:Don’t skip the chilling time! How do you allow sweetened condensed milk to soak into a cake? How do flavors meld together? I usually chill it overnight for the best results.
Whipped WondersIf you’re using store-bought whipped topping, make sure it’s fully thawed before spreading it on the counter. This will make it easier to spread evenly.
Sprinkle Sensations: Get creative with your sprinkles! Use a mix of different colors, shapes, and sizes for a truly magical look. Edible glitter is always a fun addition!

Don’t Over Bake: Nobody likes a dry cake! Keep an eye on it while it’s in the oven and test for doneness with a toothpick.
And remember that every oven is different! So don’t be afraid to adjust the baking time as needed.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover Unicorn Poke Cake (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store it:

Room Temperature: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, but it’s best to keep it refrigerated to prevent the whipped topping from melting. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

Refrigerator Storage: The cake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Again, make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze this cake for longer storage. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Glaze Timing Advice: I recommend frosting the cake just before serving, especially if you plan to store it in the freezer. This will prevent the whipped topping from becoming icy.
To thaw frozen cake, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight.
If you’re short on time, you can thaw it at room temperature, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent the whipped topping from melting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free cake mix. I’ve had great results with King Arthur and Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free cake mixes. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

There’s no zucchini in this recipe, but for other recipes, that will depend on the size and age of your zucchini. If it’s young and tender, you can leave the peel on for added nutrients and fiber. If it’s older and the skin is thick or tough, it’s best to peel it.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s a fun idea! You could definitely adapt this recipe to make muffins. Just fill muffin liners about 2/3 full and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Poke the holes and add the filling as usual, then frost the tops.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

The sweetened condensed milk makes this cake quite sweet, so if you prefer a less sweet dessert, you could use a little less sweetened condensed milk. You could also use a less sweet frosting, or simply use a smaller amount of frosting.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of whipped topping, you could use a buttercream frosting or a cream cheese frosting instead. You could also simply dust the cake with powdered sugar for a more elegant look.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my super easy, super fun, and super delicious Unicorn Poke Cake! I hope you love it as much as my family does. It’s the perfect dessert for birthday parties, holidays, or any time you need a little bit of magic in your life. If you’re looking for other easy and fun dessert recipes, be sure to check out my recipes for Chocolate Chip Cookies and Easy Brownies. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate this recipe! And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them! Happy baking!