Why Make This Recipe
Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a delicious and easy dessert that combines the classic flavors of banana pudding with a moist yellow cake. It’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. The poke cake method allows the pudding to soak into the cake, giving each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for busy days.
How to Make Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 box Betty Crocker Yellow Cake Mix
- 2 boxes Jell-O Banana Cream Instant Pudding
- 1 package Nabisco Nilla Wafers
- 2 cups milk
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Banana slices (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. Let cool completely.
- Once cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes in the cake at 1-inch intervals.
- In a bowl, whisk together the Jell-O Banana Cream Instant Pudding and milk until smooth.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
- Crumble the Nabisco Nilla Wafers over the top of the cake.
- Spread whipped cream over the crumbled wafers.
- Garnish with banana slices if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Slice the Banana Pudding Poke Cake into squares and serve it chilled. This cake is best served with a spoonful of extra whipped cream and a banana slice on top for added flavor and decoration. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Keep any leftover Banana Pudding Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make Banana Pudding Poke Cake
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before poking holes in it to avoid making a mess.
- For more banana flavor, you can add sliced bananas into the pudding mixture.
- If you want a richer flavor, consider using homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought.
Variation
Try using different flavors of pudding or cake mix. For example, vanilla cake with chocolate pudding can create an interesting twist. You can also mix in some crushed cookies for added texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you like! Vanilla or butter cake mixes work well with the banana pudding.
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation time is about 20 minutes, but you need to give it at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure that the pudding and Nilla Wafers are also gluten-free. Check the labels to be sure!
Enjoy making and sharing your Banana Pudding Poke Cake!

Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions and bake in a 9x13 inch pan. Let cool completely.
- Once cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes in the cake at 1-inch intervals.
- In a bowl, whisk together the Jell-O Banana Cream Instant Pudding and milk until smooth.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
- Crumble the Nabisco Nilla Wafers over the top of the cake.
- Spread whipped cream over the crumbled wafers.
- Garnish with banana slices if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Slice the Banana Pudding Poke Cake into squares and serve it chilled.
- Serve with a spoonful of extra whipped cream and a banana slice on top.
- Keep any leftover Banana Pudding Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.