Southern Punch Bowl Cake

This Southern Punch Bowl Cake is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert layered with moist cake, creamy vanilla pudding, sweet fruits, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s a no-fuss, make-ahead treat perfect for church gatherings, family reunions, and holiday celebrations. With its beautiful layers and indulgent flavors, this dessert is as stunning as it is delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Layered Delight – Every bite gives you a mix of cake, cream, and fruit.
Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for parties and potlucks.
Make-Ahead Magic – Best served chilled, making it ideal for prepping ahead.
Customizable – Use your favorite fruits or switch up the flavors.
Southern Charm – A classic dessert passed down for generations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as listed on the box)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)

For the Creamy Filling:

• 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk

For the Fruit Layers:

• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 1 (21 oz) can strawberry or cherry pie filling
• 2 large bananas, sliced
• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Extra whipped topping
• Maraschino cherries
• Toasted coconut or extra nuts
• Sliced strawberries or bananas

Tools You’ll Need

• Large punch bowl or trifle dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Serrated knife (to cube cake)
• Cake pan (9×13 inch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat oven according to cake mix directions (typically 350°F).
2. Prepare the cake batter using box instructions, stirring in vanilla extract if using.
3. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake according to package directions.
4. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2: Prepare the Pudding
5. In a medium bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to set.

Step 3: Build the Layers
7. In the bottom of a large punch bowl or trifle dish, add a layer of cubed cake.
8. Spoon a layer of vanilla pudding over the cake cubes.
9. Add a layer of crushed pineapple, then a layer of pie filling.
10. Arrange banana slices evenly over the fruit.
11. Spread a layer of whipped topping over the bananas.
12. Sprinkle with shredded coconut and chopped nuts if using.
13. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with whipped topping.

Step 4: Garnish and Chill
14. Decorate the top with maraschino cherries, toasted coconut, or extra fruit slices.
15. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
16. Serve chilled with a big spoon. Scoop down to get a bit of every layer in each serving.
17. Watch it disappear—it’s that good!

Tips for Best Results
Cool the Cake – Warm cake can melt the pudding and whipped topping.
Drain the Pineapple – Excess juice can make the dessert watery.
Use Firm Bananas – Slightly underripe bananas hold their texture better.
Chill Overnight – Letting the dessert sit enhances the flavors and texture.
Layer Evenly – Use a spoon or spatula to spread each layer evenly for beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Add a side of iced sweet tea for the full Southern experience.
• Serve in individual cups or mason jars for easy portioning at parties.
• Pair with a light main dish like grilled chicken or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Do Not Freeze: The whipped topping and pudding may separate and become watery when thawed.

Reusing Leftovers:

• Scoop it over pancakes or waffles for a sweet brunch twist.
• Blend a scoop with milk and ice cream for a punch bowl cake milkshake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
   Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight.
2. Can I use a homemade cake instead of boxed mix?
   Absolutely. A homemade yellow or butter cake works beautifully.
3. What other fruits can I use?
   Peach pie filling, blueberries, strawberries, or a fruit cocktail blend are all delicious options.
4. Is there a dairy-free version?
   You can use almond milk for the pudding (make sure it’s instant-compatible) and a dairy-free whipped topping.
5. What if I don’t have a punch bowl?
   Use a large glass mixing bowl, trifle dish, or even a deep casserole dish.

Final Thoughts
This Southern Punch Bowl Cake is a true celebration of sweet Southern comfort. Layered with moist cake, creamy pudding, tart fruit, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s an easy-to-make dessert that never fails to impress. Whether you’re sharing it at a Sunday potluck or making it for a family birthday, this dessert brings back memories—and makes new ones too.

Try this classic and enjoy every spoonful of its creamy, fruity, layered goodness. Be sure to share your version and leave a comment with your favorite twist!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 56g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 340mg

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