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Bananas Foster Poke Cake

This Bananas Foster Poke Cake is a decadent dessert that combines moist banana cake, creamy vanilla pudding filling, and a buttery brown sugar caramel topping. Inspired by the classic Bananas Foster flavors, this poke cake transforms simple ingredients into a rich, irresistible treat. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or an indulgent weeknight dessert, it’s one of the easiest ways to elevate ripe bananas into a show-stopping banana dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cake
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 3 ripe bananas mashed
  • Ingredients required by the cake mix eggs, oil, water
  • For the Pudding Layer
  • 1 package 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • For the Bananas Foster Sauce
  • ½ cup butter
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 sliced banana optional, for topping
  • For Garnish
  • Whipped topping or whipped cream
  • Crushed vanilla wafers optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cake
  2. Preheat oven according to cake mix instructions. Combine cake mix, mashed bananas, and the required cake mix ingredients. Bake in a 9x13-inch pan as directed. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.
  3. Poke the Cake
  4. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake. Make sure holes are deep enough to allow the pudding to seep through.
  5. Add the Pudding Filling
  6. Prepare the instant vanilla pudding according to package directions. Pour the pudding evenly over the cake so it fills the holes. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  7. Prepare the Bananas Foster Sauce
  8. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon until smooth. Add heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool slightly.
  9. Assemble and Serve
  10. Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Drizzle the Bananas Foster sauce on top and garnish with sliced bananas or crushed wafers if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor.
Let the pudding settle slightly before pouring to avoid runny filling.
Chill the cake thoroughly before adding warm sauce.
Toast banana slices lightly for added flavor.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not freeze after topping with whipped cream.