Name: Orange Creamsicle Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box orange cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on the package); 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin powder; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup cold water; 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 2 cups cold milk; 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed; Orange zest or sprinkles, for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is simple to make, starting with a cake mix base that’s elevated with zesty orange flavor. The pudding layer keeps it moist, while the whipped topping makes it light and airy. It’s great for parties, potlucks, or weeknight desserts and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Orange cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on the box)
Orange gelatin powder
Boiling water
Cold water
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cold milk
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Orange zest or sprinkles for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
Bake in a 9×13-inch pan until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove cake from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the top of the cake.
Dissolve orange gelatin powder in boiling water, then stir in cold water.
Slowly pour gelatin mixture over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
In a bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
Spread pudding evenly over chilled cake.
Top with whipped topping and garnish if desired.
Chill for at least 2 more hours before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 12–15 people.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours 50 minutes

Variations

Lemon Creamsicle: Use lemon cake mix and lemon gelatin.
Vanilla Twist: Use white cake mix and orange gelatin for a softer flavor.
Extra Creamy: Add a layer of cream cheese mixed into the pudding.
Tropical: Use pineapple-flavored gelatin for a sunny variation.
Homemade Version: Bake a scratch-made orange cake instead of using a mix.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This cake is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
Freezing is not recommended due to the whipped topping and pudding texture.

FAQs

Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.

Do I have to use orange cake mix?

No, you can use yellow or white cake mix with added orange extract and zest.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, but stabilize it so it holds up in the fridge.

Can I substitute sugar-free pudding and gelatin?

Yes, for a lighter version.

Why poke holes in the cake?

It allows the gelatin to soak in, creating flavor pockets.

Can I use fresh-squeezed orange juice?

Yes, but keep the liquid ratios balanced when making the cake.

How do I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Allow the gelatin to set slightly before adding the pudding layer.

Can I use chocolate pudding?

You can, but it will change the flavor profile completely.

Should the cake be completely cool before adding pudding?

Yes, to keep the pudding layer smooth.

Can I use a bundt pan for this?

Not ideal, as the poke method works best with a flat cake surface.

Conclusion

Orange Creamsicle Poke Cake is a fun, vibrant dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistible to eat. With its layers of moist cake, creamy pudding, and whipped topping, it delivers a refreshing citrus twist that’s perfect for any gathering.