Can I make carrot cake poke cake ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert actually tastes better when made in advance. The filling has time to settle into the cake overnight, which enhances the flavor and keeps it moist. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best filling for carrot cake poke cake?

Yes, this dessert actually tastes better when made in advance. The filling has time to settle into the cake overnight, which enhances the flavor and keeps it moist. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best filling for carrot cake poke cake?

Cream cheese pudding or frosting is the most popular choice, as it complements the spices in the cake beautifully. However, you can try vanilla pudding for something lighter or coconut cream for a tropical variation.

How should I store leftovers?

Store carrot cake poke cake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to freeze it, slice individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing in an airtight container. This makes it easy to grab a single serving later.

Carrot Cake Poke Cake – The Best Creamy Dessert Recipe (2025)

Description

Carrot Cake Poke Cake is a moist, spiced sheet cake filled with creamy pudding and topped with rich cream cheese frosting. A family favorite dessert that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight treats.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box carrot cake mix
3 cups finely shredded carrots
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or cream cheese pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Whipped topping or extra frosting for garnish

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Instructions

1 box carrot cake mix
3 cups finely shredded carrots
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or cream cheese pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Whipped topping or extra frosting for garnish

Notes

Best served chilled from the refrigerator.
Make ahead: prepare one day in advance to let the filling soak in overnight.
For a tropical twist, substitute coconut cream pudding and garnish with shredded coconut.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 310mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg