If you’ve been craving a dessert that captures the cozy essence of fall, this Caramel Apple Poke Cake will win your heart. Imagine warm spiced cake, tender apple bits, luscious caramel seeping into every bite, and a fluffy whipped topping to finish it off—it’s as comforting as it sounds!
Before I dive into all the delicious details, let me say how thankful I am that you’re here reading and cooking along with me. Recipes like this one remind me why I love sharing kitchen moments—it’s about spreading joy, creating memories, and indulging in a slice of something sweet together. And if you want to receive more recipes like this directly in your inbox, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a treat!
Why You’ll Love Caramel Apple Poke Cake
This cake is anything but ordinary!! It combines the rich spice of a moist apple cake with the gooey goodness of caramel that soaks right into every poke hole. The result is a dessert that’s both rustic and elegant, and honestly… downright addictive.
Here are just a few reasons you’ll fall in love with it:
- Easy to Make: A simple cake base that gets upgraded with a caramel drizzle—anyone can pull this off.
- Full of Fall Flavor: Apple, cinnamon, and caramel are the ultimate autumn trio.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or Sunday family dinners.
- Moist and Sweet: The poke technique guarantees no dry bites, only caramel-soaked goodness.
What Does Caramel Apple Poke Cake Taste Like?
Picture biting into a slice of apple pie and a caramel sundae at the same time—that’s this cake! The crumb is soft and tender with tiny pops of apple pieces, while the caramel drizzle sinks deep into the cake to give you gooey sweetness in every forkful. Topped with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting, it’s light yet decadent.
Benefits of Making This Recipe
- Seasonal & Affordable: Uses in-season apples and pantry staples.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Kid-Approved: Sweet enough for kids but not overly heavy for adults.
- Customizable: Swap out toppings and fillings to suit your mood or occasion.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Poke Cake
You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to bring this beauty together:
- 1 box spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix with 2 tsp cinnamon & nutmeg)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 medium apples, peeled and finely chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
- Optional garnish: extra caramel drizzle, toffee bits, or chopped nuts
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls and whisk
- Wooden spoon or skewer (for poking holes)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Cake Mix Swap: Try butter pecan, vanilla, or white cake mix for a slightly different flavor.
- Fresh Apple Boost: Use shredded apples if you want more texture throughout the cake.
- Nutty Crunch: Add pecans or walnuts for a little bite.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free caramel sauce.
- Homemade Caramel: If you’ve got the time, a homemade caramel sauce takes this cake over the top.
How to Make Caramel Apple Poke Cake
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix cake mix, eggs, water, and oil until smooth. Fold in chopped apples.
- Bake: Pour into prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Poke Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
- Soak with Caramel & Milk: In a bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk with half the caramel sauce. Pour mixture slowly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
- Chill: Allow the cake to cool completely, at least 1 hour in the fridge.
- Top It Off: Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake. Drizzle with remaining caramel sauce and sprinkle with nuts or toffee bits if desired.
- Serve & Enjoy: Slice, serve chilled, and watch it disappear fast!
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Poke Cake
- Warm Drinks: Hot apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, or chai tea make dreamy pairings.
- A Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla bean or butter pecan ice cream alongside takes it over the top.
- Savory Balance: Serve after a hearty fall dinner like roasted chicken or chili—it’s the sweet note that rounds out the meal.
Tips for the Perfect Poke Cake
- Poke holes while the cake is still slightly warm so it absorbs more filling.
- Don’t skimp on the caramel—it’s what makes the cake unforgettable!
- Chill before topping with whipped cream to prevent melting.
- Use a serrated knife for clean slices.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze (without whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and frost before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! A scratch-made spice cake works beautifully—just bake in a 9×13 pan and follow the same steps.
What kind of apples work best?
Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji give a juicy, sweet bite.
Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?
It’s what makes the cake extra moist and luscious, but you can swap with evaporated milk for a lighter version (just note it won’t be as sweet).
Can I make it the day before?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when made ahead since the flavors meld overnight.
Caramel Apple Poke Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch dish. Mix cake mix, eggs, water, and oil until smooth. Fold in apples.
- Pour into pan and bake 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool 10 minutes.
- Using a wooden spoon handle, poke holes evenly across the cake.
- Mix condensed milk with half the caramel sauce. Pour over cake to soak.
- Chill cake for at least 1 hour in the fridge.
- Spread whipped topping evenly. Drizzle with caramel and sprinkle garnishes if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Poke Cake is the dessert that truly embodies fall comfort in every bite. With its gooey caramel filling, tender apple-studded cake, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. This recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:
- Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
- Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Peach Cobbler Poke Cake
Don’t forget to leave a review if you try this recipe and tag your cake photos on Pinterest—I absolutely love seeing your creations!!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, 12 servings)
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 38g
- Protein: 4g
