If you love the refreshing flavor of a creamsicle but want it in cake form, the Sunshine Creamsicle Poke Cake is the perfect treat. This bright, citrusy dessert combines orange-flavored cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, creating a soft, moist, and dreamy cake that tastes like summer in every bite.

This poke cake is easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for birthdays, brunches, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a light, fruity dessert that’s full of flavor. The “poke” method allows the cake to soak up the pudding and juices, making it incredibly moist and indulgent without being overly heavy.

Here’s your complete guide to making the perfect Sunshine Creamsicle Poke Cake, along with tips, variations, storage, and serving ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Bright, Citrus Flavor – The orange cake combined with creamy vanilla filling mimics the classic creamsicle taste.
Super Moist Texture – Poking the cake and pouring in pudding creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Kid-Friendly Dessert – Sweet, colorful, and fun, perfect for all ages.

Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and boxed cake mixes if desired.
Beautiful Presentation – Topped with whipped cream and orange zest for a stunning finish.

What Is a Poke Cake?

A poke cake is a type of dessert where you bake a cake and then poke holes in it to pour in a liquid or pudding filling. This technique allows the cake to absorb flavors, resulting in a moist, flavorful dessert.

In a Sunshine Creamsicle Poke Cake, the holes are filled with orange-flavored gelatin or pudding, which infuses the cake with citrus sweetness and keeps it moist. The final topping of whipped cream and orange zest gives it a creamy, vibrant finish.

Ingredients for Sunshine Creamsicle Poke Cake

Cake Base

1 box (15.25 oz) orange cake mix (or homemade orange cake)
1 cup water

1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

Poke Filling

1 package (3.4 oz) orange-flavored gelatin

1 cup boiling water
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 1/2 cups cold milk

Topping

1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Orange zest (for garnish)
Optional: sliced mandarin oranges

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula

Saucepan (for gelatin, if needed)
Fork or skewer (for poking the cake)

How to Make Sunshine Creamsicle Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Orange Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare cake mix according to package directions or make a homemade orange cake batter.
Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the cake cool slightly before poking.

Step 2: Prepare the Poke Filling

Dissolve orange gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
Let it cool slightly.

Mix vanilla pudding with 1 1/2 cups cold milk until thickened.
Combine cooled gelatin with pudding mixture.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the cake.

Step 4: Pour in Filling

Slowly pour the orange gelatin-pudding mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours so the filling sets and flavors meld.

Step 5: Add Whipped Topping

Spread whipped topping evenly over the cooled, set cake.

Garnish with orange zest and optional mandarin slices for a bright, festive look.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamsicle Poke Cake

Cool the cake slightly before poking, or it may crumble.
Pour gelatin mixture slowly to ensure it seeps into all holes.

Use fresh orange zest for the best citrus flavor and aroma.
Refrigerate before serving for a firmer, refreshing texture.

Variations to Try

Creamsicle Poke Cupcakes

Use this recipe in a cupcake tin for individual servings.

Chocolate-Orange Twist

Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the cake mix for a chocolatey creamsicle version.

Strawberry Creamsicle

Swap the orange gelatin for strawberry-flavored gelatin for a fruity twist.

Layered Poke Cake

Add a second layer of cake, poke holes, and pour in the same or different flavored gelatin/pudding mixture for a layered dessert.

Serving Ideas

Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a festive presentation.

Perfect for summer parties, brunches, or birthday celebrations.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store covered for 3–4 days. The cake stays moist and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this cake from scratch instead of a mix?
Yes! Use a homemade orange cake recipe for the base.

Q: Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
Absolutely. Adjust sugar in pudding if needed.

Q: Do I have to poke the cake?
Yes—this allows the filling to soak in and keeps the cake moist.

Q: Can I use a different flavor of pudding?
Yes! Vanilla complements orange perfectly, but cream cheese or cheesecake pudding works for a richer dessert.

Why This Poke Cake Is So Popular

The Sunshine Creamsicle Poke Cake is beloved because it is:

Bright and refreshing with natural orange flavor

Soft, moist, and creamy
Kid-friendly and visually appealing
Easy to make for large gatherings

It combines nostalgia, flavor, and simplicity in a dessert that satisfies both kids and adults.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice, 12 slices)

Calories: 280
Fat: 12g

Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g

Final Thoughts

The Sunshine Creamsicle Poke Cake is a light, fruity, and creamy dessert that brings a sunny burst of flavor to any occasion. Its bright orange flavor, smooth vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping create a delightful dessert perfect for summer, holidays, or celebrations.

With its easy assembly, vibrant colors, and refreshing taste, this poke cake is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.