Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake Recipe

Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake Recipe

Hello, dessert enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that combines citrusy brightness with a creamy finish, this Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake is exactly what you need. With its luscious grapefruit curd, moist cake, and fluffy meringue topping, this recipe is the perfect blend of tart and sweet. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this stunning dessert!

Introduction

The Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake is a creative twist on traditional citrus desserts, showcasing the bold, tangy flavor of grapefruit in every bite. The concept of a poke cake allows the vibrant grapefruit curd to seep into the tender cake, ensuring a burst of flavor in every forkful. Topped with a glossy meringue that you can toast to perfection, this cake is sure to wow your family and friends at your next gathering.

Ingredients

Grapefruit Curd:

  • 1 ½ cup freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice
  • 7 egg yolks
  • 1 whole egg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons grapefruit zest
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into half-inch pieces
  • Pink food coloring (optional)

Cake:

  • 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients required to prepare the mix)

Meringue:

  • 6 large egg whites
  • 1 ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake

Make the Grapefruit Curd:

Pour the grapefruit juice into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced by half, resulting in about ¾ cup of juice. This step intensifies the grapefruit flavor. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and granulated sugar until well combined. Stir in the reduced grapefruit juice, grapefruit zest, and salt. Add the butter pieces and cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. The curd will thicken in about 4-8 minutes; you’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring for a visually striking curd. Strain the curd through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl to remove any lumps, then cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until cool.

Make the Cake:

Preheat the oven as directed on the cake mix package. Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions and pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake the cake as instructed on the package. Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish. After cooling, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the entire surface of the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.

Assemble the Cake:

Pour the cooled grapefruit curd over the surface of the cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it fills the holes to infuse the cake with the tangy curd. Refrigerate the cake for about 2 hours to allow the curd to set and fully integrate with the cake.

Make the Meringue:

In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form. Meanwhile, combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat without stirring until the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. With the mixer running, slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the whipped egg whites in a thin stream. Add the cream of tartar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and continue beating the mixture until it becomes glossy and reaches room temperature.

Finish the Cake:

Spread the meringue over the chilled cake, creating a thick, fluffy layer. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls and peaks. For an extra-special touch, toast the meringue with a kitchen torch until golden brown. Serve immediately for a dramatic presentation or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Helpful Tips

  • Juicing Grapefruits: Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is essential for the best flavor. Roll the grapefruit under your palm before juicing to release more juice.
  • Smooth Curd: Straining the curd ensures a silky texture by removing any cooked egg bits or zest chunks.
  • Stable Meringue: Adding cream of tartar helps stabilize the meringue, ensuring it holds its shape beautifully.

Cooking Tips

  • Bake Evenly: When preparing the cake, use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even results.
  • Torch Alternative: If you don’t have a kitchen torch, place the cake under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to toast the meringue. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Poke Holes: Make sure the holes in the cake go deep enough to allow the curd to soak through but not so deep that they reach the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing dessert that balances tart grapefruit with sweet meringue. Pair it with a cup of herbal tea or a sparkling grapefruit soda for a complementary citrusy experience. Garnish slices with fresh grapefruit segments or a sprinkle of zest for an added pop of flavor and color.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 340
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Potassium: 80mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 43g
  • Vitamin A: 10%
  • Vitamin C: 15%
  • Calcium: 6%
  • Iron: 4%

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing: The meringue is best fresh, but the cake with grapefruit curd can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add the meringue before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different citrus fruit for the curd?
Yes! You can substitute grapefruit juice with lemon, lime, or even orange juice for a different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer for the sugar syrup?
You can test the sugar syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball when it reaches the correct temperature.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the cake and grapefruit curd up to two days in advance. Add the meringue on the day of serving for optimal freshness.

Related Recipes

If you love this cake, you might enjoy these citrusy and creative desserts:

Conclusion

The Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation, blending the zesty brightness of grapefruit with the rich creaminess of meringue. Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or a weekend baking project, this cake is sure to leave an impression. Try it today and savor the delightful combination of tart, sweet, and creamy flavors. Enjoy every bite of this unique and refreshing dessert!

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