Southern Punch Bowl Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, nostalgic, and perfect for feeding a crowd, this Southern Punch Bowl Cake is it! This layered dessert is a showstopper—fluffy cake, creamy vanilla pudding, tart fruit, and pillowy whipped topping, all stacked high in a trifle-style punch bowl. It’s the kind of sweet treat that makes appearances at family gatherings, church picnics, and Sunday suppers across the South.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Assemble – No baking skills required, just layering.
Feeds a Crowd – Great for parties, potlucks, and holidays.
Versatile – Swap in your favorite fruits or flavors.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Best when chilled overnight.
Classic Southern Charm – A recipe passed down for generations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake Base:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Filling Layers:

• 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
• 2 large bananas, sliced
• 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Extra whipped topping
• Maraschino cherries
• Sliced strawberries or bananas
• Additional crushed nuts

Tools You’ll Need

• 1 large punch bowl or trifle dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Cake pan
• Serrated knife (to cube the cake)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (or according to box instructions).
2. Prepare the cake mix in a large mixing bowl following the package directions. Add vanilla extract for enhanced flavor, if desired.
3. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as directed.
4. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2: Make the Pudding
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk.
6. Whisk for 2 minutes until thickened, then chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Layer the Dessert
7. In the bottom of your punch bowl, place a layer of cubed cake.
8. Spoon a layer of pudding over the cake.
9. Add a layer of crushed pineapple.
10. Next, spoon a layer of cherry pie filling.
11. Add a layer of banana slices.
12. Spread a layer of whipped topping.
13. Sprinkle with coconut and nuts if using.
14. Repeat all layers until you reach the top of the bowl or run out of ingredients—usually 2 to 3 layers total.
15. Finish with a final layer of whipped topping and optional garnishes like maraschino cherries or fresh fruit.

Step 4: Chill and Serve
16. Cover the punch bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the cake absorb the juices.
17. Serve chilled with a big spoon and enjoy every nostalgic bite!

Tips for a Perfect Southern Punch Bowl Cake
Cool the Cake – Make sure your cake is fully cooled before layering.
Drain the Pineapple – Too much juice can make the dessert soggy.
Use Firm Bananas – Slightly underripe bananas work best and won’t turn mushy.
Chill Overnight – This dessert tastes even better the next day.
Customize It – Swap the cherry pie filling with strawberry, blueberry, or peach pie filling for variety.

Serving Suggestions
Brunch Tables – A fun and sweet addition to your weekend brunch.
Holiday Potlucks – Easy to make ahead and guaranteed to disappear.
Summer BBQs – Refreshing and fruity, a perfect warm-weather dessert.
Birthday Parties – Feeds a crowd and looks beautiful in a glass bowl.

How to Store & Reuse

Storing:
Refrigerate: Cover and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Do Not Freeze: Freezing will change the texture of the whipped topping and fruit.

Reusing Leftovers:
Turn it into a milkshake – Blend a scoop with vanilla ice cream and milk.
Use it as a topping – Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this with homemade cake?
   Yes! A scratch-made yellow cake or pound cake works great. Just ensure it’s cooled before layering.
2. What fruits work best?
   Cherries, pineapples, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, or peaches all work well. Just make sure they’re not too watery.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
   You can use dairy-free pudding mix and a non-dairy whipped topping. Almond or oat milk is a great sub for regular milk.
4. Do I need a punch bowl?
   Nope! Any large, clear glass bowl or trifle dish will work. Even a deep casserole dish will do in a pinch.
5. How far ahead can I make it?
   Ideally, make it the night before serving for the best texture and flavor blend.

Final Thoughts
Southern Punch Bowl Cake is a celebration in a bowl—sweet, creamy, fruity, and so easy to make. Whether you’re bringing dessert to a family reunion, hosting a special dinner, or just want something nostalgic and satisfying, this recipe delivers every time. The beauty of this cake is in its layers—each bite has a little bit of everything you love.

Try it out, and don’t forget to share your sweet creations—I’d love to see your Southern-style punch bowl masterpiece!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 370 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 54g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg

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