Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake

The Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake combines a tangy citrus curd with a light and fluffy meringue topping for a unique twist on a classic poke cake. The fresh grapefruit juice creates a refreshing flavor that’s balanced by the sweetness of the meringue, making this cake a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice
• 7 egg yolks

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice and egg yolks.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour the grapefruit curd over the poke cake, spreading it evenly over the surface.
5. Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (for curd preparation)
• Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)

Variations

• Grapefruit and Lime Curd: For an added citrusy punch, try incorporating lime juice with the grapefruit for a more complex flavor.
• Meringue Topping: Top the cake with a fluffy meringue made from egg whites, sugar, and a little vanilla extract for an extra sweet touch.
• Different Citrus: Swap out the grapefruit for lemon, orange, or even blood orange for a different citrus flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the poke cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The citrus curd needs to be kept cold.
• Reheating: Poke cakes are typically served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the curd and pour it over the cake the night before. Just refrigerate it until ready to serve.
2. Can I use store-bought grapefruit juice? While fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice yields the best flavor, store-bought juice can be used in a pinch. Make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugars.
3. Can I use egg substitutes? For a vegan option, you can use an egg yolk substitute, such as silken tofu or a commercial egg replacer, though the texture of the curd may differ slightly.
4. What is a poke cake? A poke cake is a type of cake where holes are made in the baked cake, and a liquid (such as pudding, curd, or frosting) is poured over it so that it seeps into the holes, making the cake moist and flavorful.
5. Can I freeze the cake? While you can freeze the cake (without curd or meringue), it’s best to serve it fresh. The curd and meringue may not freeze well.
6. Can I make the curd in advance? Yes, you can prepare the grapefruit curd up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just pour it over the cake when you’re ready.
7. Can I add other fruits to the curd? Yes, you can mix in other fruit juices like orange or lemon to adjust the sweetness and tartness of the curd.
8. How can I make the curd thicker? If you prefer a thicker curd, you can cook it a little longer, or you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before cooking to help thicken it.
9. How do I make the meringue topping? To make a meringue, beat egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form, then spread it over the cooled cake before baking it in the oven until golden.
10. Can I use a different cake base? Yes, you can use a different cake base such as angel food cake, pound cake, or even sponge cake, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

The Grapefruit Meringue Poke Cake is a refreshing and light dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor in every bite. With a smooth, tangy grapefruit curd and the sweet, fluffy meringue topping, it’s a unique dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat to brighten your day.

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