Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

#### Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For an added festive touch, sprinkle **chopped fresh cranberries** on top of the cake for a burst of color and a fresh crunch. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for a holiday-themed garnish.

Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least **2 hours** before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the topping to set, creating a beautifully decadent dessert.

### Tips for Perfect Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

– **Use Fresh or Frozen Cranberries**: If you have fresh cranberries on hand, they’ll create a great texture and flavor. If using frozen cranberries, just thaw them first.
– **Add Zest for Extra Flavor**: A little **orange zest** or **lemon zest** in the cranberry sauce can add extra brightness and complexity to the flavor profile.
– **Make Ahead**: This cake can be made ahead of time! It actually tastes even better when it’s had time to chill and the flavors have fully developed. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
– **Substitute with Cranberry Sauce**: If you’re short on time or don’t want to make the cranberry sauce from scratch, you can use **store-bought cranberry sauce** instead. Just make sure it’s the unsweetened variety, so it doesn’t overpower the cake.

### Why This Cake Is Perfect for Christmas

This **Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake** is not just a dessert; it’s a festive celebration on a plate! The vibrant red cranberry sauce and creamy topping give it a holiday look, making it perfect for any Christmas gathering, from casual family dinners to more formal holiday parties.

The combination of sweet and tart, along with the fluffy cake texture, makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make yet looks impressive, meaning you’ll have more time to enjoy the holiday season with loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen.

### Final Thoughts

This **Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake** is an easy, festive, and delicious dessert that will surely impress your guests this holiday season. With the combination of fluffy white cake, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and a smooth cream cheese topping, it offers the perfect balance of flavors for any Christmas table.

Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also customizable, making it easy to adjust based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just need a special treat for a cozy Christmas morning, this cake is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dessert that brings holiday cheer to every bite!