In the bowl of a stand mixer add the cake mix, eggs, water and butter.
Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
Meanwhile, mash bananas in a separate bowl.
Fold bananas into cake batter and stir until combined.
Pour into prepared 13x9 baking dish.
Bake for 30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Allow to cool for 10 minutes.
Use the handle of a wooden spook to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Be careful not to go all the way to the bottom.
In a bowl, combine the instant pudding and milk; whisk until combined.
Allow pudding to set for about 2 minutes.
Pour slightly thickened pudding over the top of the cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, allowing it to fill the holes.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, add whipping cream to the bowl of a stand mixer; Whip cream till soft peaks form.
Fold in powdered sugar and vanilla and beat until thoroughly mixed.
Spread the whipped cream on top of the chilled cake.
Top with crushed vanilla cookies and garnish with banana slices. (see note)
Notes
Add Cinnamon: Dust the cake with a little cinnamon.
Nuts: Crumbled walnuts on top of the cake add a nice crunch to this Banana Poke Cake recipe.
Different Cake: Try using a banana cake mix such as the Dolly Parton One.
Alternate Frosting: Feel free to add a cream cheese frosting to the poke cake.
Serving: I add the crushed cookies and banana garnish to the cake slices as I’m serving them. This way the cookies don’t get soggy and the bananas stay fresh.