Poke Cake

Of all possible desserts, my husband prefers this cold cake for his birthday cake more years than not. The light texture of the moist cake is refreshing and versatile with any number of combinations.

1 box cake mix (white or yellow cake mix work well) + corresponding ingredients 

1 small box Jell-O (preferred flavor)

1 cup boiling water

½ cup cold water

1 large box pudding mix (preferred flavor)

3 cups milk

1 small tub Cool Whip

Prepare cake per package directions. Let cool completely. Use a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup boiling water with Jell-O until gelatin dissolves. Whisk in ½ cup water. Pour Jell-O mixture over cake, covering completely. Refrigerate at least 3 hours.

Prepare pudding with three cups of milk. Refrigerate at least 5 minutes to allow to set up. Spread pudding over the top of cake. Refrigerate at least an hour. Spread Cool Whip over pudding layer. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

A few great flavor combinations: Raspberry Jell-O with chocolate pudding; Strawberry Jell-O with banana pudding; Berry Jell-O with funfetti cake and vanilla pudding