10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Emma A. Edwards

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk

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When life hands you lemons, it’s time to make a delightful dessert! Lemon poke cakes have become a beloved treat for many, especially with the rich sweetness of condensed milk to elevate the flavors. I created this list of 10 lemon poke cake recipes because I’m deeply passionate about baking and want to share the joy of lemony goodness with everyone. If you’ve ever craved a refreshing dessert or simply love lemon desserts, you’re in for a treat.

Whether you’re preparing for a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these recipes are perfect for any occasion. I’ve gathered recipes that are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Each cake is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. So, grab your baking supplies and let’s dive into these mouthwatering lemon poke cake recipes featuring sweetened condensed milk!

Key Takeaways

Lemon Poke Cakes are an easy way to incorporate vibrant lemon flavors into dessert, perfect for lemon lovers.

Sweetened Condensed Milk adds creaminess and sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of each poke cake.

Variations Galore: This post features 10 unique recipes, including flavors like coconut, raspberry, and even chocolate!

Easy to Follow: Each recipe is designed to be straightforward, allowing bakers of all levels to succeed.

Perfect for Occasions: These cakes are great for parties, potlucks, or just to enjoy at home when you’re in the mood for something sweet.

How To Choose The Best Lemon Poke Cake Recipe

Choosing the right lemon poke cake recipe can elevate your baking experience. Here are some factors to consider to find the perfect match for your taste buds:

1. Flavor Preferences

Think about the lemon flavor intensity you desire. Do you want a light lemon taste or something more robust? Many recipes use fresh lemon juice and zest, while others might combine lemon with fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a twist.

2. Ingredients on Hand

Check your pantry before selecting a recipe. If you have sweetened condensed milk, cake mix, and some lemons, a classic lemon poke cake might be your best choice. If you have additional fruits, consider variations like lemon raspberry or lemon coconut cakes.

3. Occasion and Serving Size

Consider how many people you plan to serve. Some recipes are designed for larger gatherings, while others are smaller and perfect for a cozy dinner. Choose a recipe that fits your needs.

4. Baking Experience

If you are a beginner, opt for simpler recipes that require fewer steps. More experienced bakers might enjoy the challenge of crafting a layered lemon cheesecake poke cake.

5. Dietary Restrictions

Take into account any dietary restrictions of your guests. You may want to look for recipes that can be easily modified to be gluten-free or dairy-free.

Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to mix and match elements from different recipes to create your own unique lemon poke cake masterpiece!

How Do Lemon Poke Cakes Work?

Lemon poke cakes are delightful because they are not just cakes; they are desserts that absorb intense flavors. Here’s how they work:

1. Bake the Cake: Start by baking a simple lemon cake. Once it cools, poke holes all over the top using a fork or skewer to allow the filling to seep in.

2. Prepare the Filling: Mix together sweetened condensed milk with lemon juice and zest. This mixture is what brings the sweet and tangy flavor to the cake.

3. Pour and Absorb: Pour the lemon mixture over the cooled cake. As it absorbs into the holes, the cake becomes moist and flavorful, making every bite a lemony delight.

4. Chill: After the filling is absorbed, chill the cake in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld together and gives the cake a great texture.

5. Frosting: Finally, top your cake with whipped cream or frosting of your choice. This adds a creamy texture and balances the tartness of the lemon.

Best for: Lemon poke cakes are ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with a fresh and zesty dessert.

How To Use Sweetened Condensed Milk in Lemon Poke Cakes

Sweetened condensed milk is a favorite ingredient in lemon poke cakes because it creates a rich, creamy texture. Here’s how to use it effectively:

Tools You’ll Need:

– Mixing bowls

– Whisk

– Measuring cups

– Fork or skewer

1. Measure the Milk: Start by measuring out the desired amount of sweetened condensed milk. Most recipes will call for one 14-ounce can, but you can adjust based on the recipe.

2. Combine with Lemon: In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk with fresh lemon juice and zest. Whisk until smooth. The sweetness of the milk balances the tartness of the lemon perfectly.

3. Prepare the Cake: After baking your lemon cake, poke holes in it with a fork or skewer, ensuring you cover the entire surface. This will allow the milk mixture to penetrate and soak into the cake.

4. Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the sweetened condensed milk mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if necessary.

5. Chill Before Serving: Allow the cake to chill for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful moist texture.

⏱ Time: ~15 minutes active preparation | 💡 Tip: For an extra twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the milk mixture for added depth!

1. Classic Lemon Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 1. Classic Lemon Poke Cake 1

Craving something sweet and citrusy? This classic lemon poke cake is the perfect remedy. Its light, fluffy texture is enhanced by fresh lemon juice and zest, offering a delightful zing in every bite. The sweetened condensed milk topping seeps into the cake, ensuring it’s incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how quickly it disappears at gatherings!

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Lemon zest for garnish
– Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, water, and oil until combined.
3. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Once cooled, poke holes all over the cake with a fork.
5. Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice, then pour it over the cake.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
7. Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with lemon zest.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen lemon juice? Yes, just ensure it’s properly thawed.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free cake mix for a suitable alternative.

Fun fact: lemon poke cake with sweetened condensed milk stays incredibly moist for 4–5 days when stored sealed in the fridge. A 1-minute zest burst and a drizzle of condensed milk soak-in give every bite a bright, citrusy punch—perfect for gatherings!

Classic Lemon Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:15 AM

2. Lemon Coconut Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 2. Lemon Coconut Poke Cake 1

Dreaming of a tropical escape? This lemon coconut poke cake will whisk you away with its vibrant flavors. The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with the rich coconut, creating a dessert that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Perfect for summer gatherings, this cake is sure to impress with its refreshing taste and creamy texture.

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
– Additional shredded coconut for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and coconut milk until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. Once cooled, poke holes in the top and mix condensed milk with lemon juice.
5. Pour the mixture over the cake, letting it soak in.
6. Sprinkle shredded coconut on top and refrigerate for 2-3 hours before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk? Yes, for a different flavor.
– Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based cream and coconut milk for a suitable option.

Lemon Coconut Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:15 AM

3. Blueberry Lemon Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 3. Blueberry Lemon Poke Cake 1

Looking to add color and flavor to your dessert table? This blueberry lemon poke cake is a vibrant choice! The combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon creates a refreshing treat that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. With its luscious texture from sweetened condensed milk, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch pan.
2. In a bowl, combine the cake ingredients until mixed, then gently fold in the blueberries.
3. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. After cooling, poke holes all over the cake.
5. Mix sweetened condensed milk with lemon juice and pour over the cake.
6. Refrigerate for 2 hours, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, just thaw them slightly before use.
– Can I add lemon zest? Absolutely, it enhances the flavor!

Blueberry Lemon Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:16 AM

4. Lemon Raspberry Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 4. Lemon Raspberry Poke Cake 1

Are you a lover of sweet and tart flavors? This lemon raspberry poke cake is just what you need! The tangy raspberries contrast beautifully with the bright lemon, creating a dessert that’s both delicious and visually striking. The creamy sweetened condensed milk adds an indulgent touch that will leave your guests asking for more.

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
– Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Combine the cake mix, eggs, and water in a bowl until blended.
3. Gently fold in the raspberries.
4. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
5. Once cooled, poke holes in the top and mix the condensed milk with lemon juice.
6. Pour it over the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Top with whipped cream before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen raspberries? Yes, they work well too!
– Can I add a raspberry sauce for presentation? Definitely, it adds a beautiful touch!

Lemon Raspberry Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:16 AM

5. Lemon Lime Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 5. Lemon Lime Poke Cake 1

Ready for a zesty treat? This lemon lime poke cake offers a delightful combination of tangy flavors that’s sure to refresh your palate. Each slice is creamy thanks to the sweetened condensed milk, making it a fantastic dessert for summer gatherings. Your guests will love the bright, invigorating taste!

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Lime zest for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch pan.
2. Mix the cake ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. Once cooled, poke holes throughout the cake.
5. Combine sweetened condensed milk with lemon and lime juice, then pour over the cake.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Garnish with lime zest before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I adjust the lime juice amount? Yes, to suit your taste preference.
– Can I serve it with ice cream? Yes, it pairs wonderfully with citrus sorbet!

Fun fact: The lemon poke cake recipe condensed milk stays moist for up to 4 days in the fridge. The bright lemon-lime flavor and creamy drizzle keep leftovers just as vibrant.

Lemon Lime Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:20 AM

6. Lemon Orange Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 6. Lemon Orange Poke Cake 1

Bring a burst of citrus joy to your table with this lemon orange poke cake. The sweetened condensed milk enhances the flavors, making every bite a delightful experience. With its beautiful appearance and irresistible taste, this cake is perfect for celebrations or a delightful family dessert.

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Orange slices for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Mix together the cake ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. Once cooled, poke holes throughout the top.
5. Whisk together sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice, pouring it over the cake.
6. Chill for 2 hours, garnishing with orange slices before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I add orange zest? Yes, it enhances the flavor beautifully.
– Can I serve it with whipped cream? Absolutely, it adds an extra creamy touch!

Lemon Orange Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:20 AM

7. Lemon Almond Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 7. Lemon Almond Poke Cake 1

If you adore the nutty flavor of almonds, this lemon almond poke cake is a must-try! The unique combination of almond extract and bright lemon gives this dessert a delightful twist. With sweetened condensed milk adding richness, this cake will impress at any event with its unique flavor pairing.

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Sliced almonds for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and almond extract in a bowl until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. After cooling, poke holes into the top.
5. Mix the sweetened condensed milk with lemon juice and pour over the cake.
6. Refrigerate for 2 hours, topping with sliced almonds before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use almond extract sparingly? Yes, it’s quite strong!
– Can I serve it with caramel sauce? Yes, it adds a delicious touch!

Lemon Almond Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:18 AM

Recipe Name Main Ingredients Cost
Classic Lemon Poke Cake Lemon cake mix, eggs $N/A
Lemon Coconut Poke Cake Coconut milk, shredded coconut $N/A
Blueberry Lemon Poke Cake Fresh blueberries, lemon juice $N/A
Lemon Raspberry Poke Cake Fresh raspberries, lemon juice $N/A
Lemon Cheesecake Poke Cake Cream cheese, lemon curd $N/A
Lemon Chocolate Poke Cake Chocolate cake mix, lemon juice $N/A
Lemon Peppermint Poke Cake Peppermint extract, crushed candies $N/A

8. Lemon Cheesecake Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 8. Lemon Cheesecake Poke Cake 1

Cheesecake lovers, rejoice! This lemon cheesecake poke cake combines the rich, creamy flavor of cheesecake with the refreshing taste of lemon. The sweetened condensed milk creates a smooth texture that elevates this dessert to new heights, making it perfect for special occasions or celebrations.

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Lemon curd for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and water, then pour into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
3. Once cool, poke holes over the cake.
4. In another bowl, mix cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice until smooth.
5. Pour this mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours and top with lemon curd before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, but full-fat gives a richer flavor.
– Can I add berries on top? Yes, they add color and flavor!

Fun fact: adding condensed milk to lemon cheesecake poke cake keeps each slice incredibly moist—up to 5 days in the fridge! A single layer of lemon cake + cream cheese layers makes celebrations taste like a citrusy dream.

Lemon Cheesecake Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:20 AM

9. Lemon Chocolate Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 9. Lemon Chocolate Poke Cake 1

For those who enjoy a creative twist, this lemon chocolate poke cake is a delightful surprise! The rich chocolate flavor pairs wonderfully with the bright lemon, while the sweetened condensed milk provides a luxurious creaminess. This cake is a bold choice that will surely stand out at any gathering.

Ingredients:
– 1 box chocolate cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Grated chocolate for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and water until smooth.
3. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. Once cooled, poke holes all over the cake.
5. Mix sweetened condensed milk with lemon juice and pour over the cake.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving, garnishing with grated chocolate.

FAQs:
– Can I use dark chocolate cake mix? Yes, it adds a richer flavor profile.
– Can I serve it with whipped cream? Absolutely, it complements the flavors beautifully!

Lemon Chocolate Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:19 AM

10. Lemon Peppermint Poke Cake

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - 10. Lemon Peppermint Poke Cake 1

End on a refreshing note with this lemon peppermint poke cake, ideal for holidays and special occasions. The coolness of peppermint combined with bright lemon creates a unique flavor experience, while the sweetened condensed milk ensures each slice is creamy and dreamy. This cake is bound to become a festive favorite!

Ingredients:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Crushed peppermint candies for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix the cake ingredients until well combined.
3. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. Once cooled, poke holes throughout the top of the cake.
5. Mix sweetened condensed milk with lemon juice and peppermint extract, then pour over the cake.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours and top with crushed peppermint candies before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use crushed candy canes? Yes, they add a festive touch.
– Can I serve it with whipped cream? Yes, it adds extra creaminess!

Lemon Peppermint Poke Cake

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:23 AM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍋

BEGINNER

Classic Base Recipe

Start with the classic lemon poke cake recipe using sweetened condensed milk for a foundational dessert.

🥥

QUICK WIN

Coconut Twist

Add shredded coconut to the classic recipe for a tropical flavor boost that lemon lovers will adore.

🫐

ESSENTIAL

Berry Infusion

Incorporate fresh blueberries or raspberries into your poke cake for a refreshing fruity complement to lemon.

🍊

PRO TIP

Citrus Variations

Experiment with other citrus fruits like lime and orange to create unique, flavorful poke cake variations.

🍰

ADVANCED

Layered Flavors

Try combining flavors like lemon cheesecake or chocolate for a decadent twist on the traditional poke cake.

🍬

WARNING

Sweetened Finish

Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over your poke cake before serving for an extra creamy and sweet finish.

Conclusion

10 Lemon Poke Cake Recipes with Sweetened Condensed Milk - Conclusion 1

Lemon poke cakes are not just desserts; they’re a celebration of flavor and creativity. With these 10 variations, each offers a unique spin on classic lemony goodness, all enhanced by the creamy texture of sweetened condensed milk. Whether you’re a traditionalist or love to experiment with flavors, there’s a poke cake here for you to try.

So, gather your ingredients and get baking—your taste buds will thank you! Don’t forget to share your creations and let the world know which flavor is your favorite!

Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.

This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a lemon poke cake recipe condensed milk, and how does the sweetened condensed milk create that creamy filling?

Think of it as a lemon cake that’s poked with holes and drenched with a creamy topping made from sweetened condensed milk.

Bake a bright lemon cake, then use a skewer to poke holes all over.

Whisk sweetened condensed milk with fresh lemon juice and zest, pour over the cake, and let it soak in.

Chill for several hours so the flavors meld and the cake stays incredibly moist.

This method is a popular approach in many condensed milk desserts and lemon dessert recipes.

Can I adapt this lemon poke cake recipe condensed milk with other flavors, and what poke cake variations should I try?

Absolutely. You can swap lemon for lime, orange, or strawberry to create different poke cake variations.

Try a coconut lime version by adding a hint of coconut milk and zest, or swirl in melted white chocolate for a new twist.

Layer in lemon curd between the cake and the drizzle, or top with berry compote for extra tang.

The basic technique stays the same: bake, poke, soak with flavored liquid, and chill.

Are there tips to balance sweetness in lemon dessert recipes that use sweetened condensed milk?

Yes. Balance it by boosting lemon brightness: extra zest and juice help cut the sweetness in sweetened condensed milk desserts.

Mix a portion with plain yogurt or whipped cream to lighten the texture, and add a tart lemon glaze or fresh berries to keep the lemon flavor forward.

Taste as you go and adjust the amount of condensed milk to suit your preference.

What toppings or add-ins work best for lemon poke cake with condensed milk?

Great options include a cloud of whipped cream and extra lemon zest, plus fresh berries for contrast.

A layer of lemon curd or a blueberry sauce can elevate the citrus notes.

White chocolate shavings, toasted almonds, or crushed macadamia add texture and sparkle.

These ideas fit nicely with easy lemon cake and keep the charm of condensed milk desserts alive.

How should I store lemon poke cake and how long will it stay fresh?

Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for best texture.

It stays fresh about 3–4 days, and you can freeze slices for 2–3 months if you want ahead.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

If you’ve added dairy-based toppings, keep those toppings covered so the cake doesn’t get soggy.

This keeps your condensed milk desserts and other sweetened condensed milk recipes delicious longer.

Related Topics

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condensed milk desserts

easy lemon desserts

poke cake variations

sweetened condensed milk recipes

lemon dessert recipes

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beginner friendly

summer desserts

moist cake recipes

fluffy cake

sweet treats

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