Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Poke Cake is incredibly easy to make and loaded with rich chocolate flavor. The unique “poke” method allows the cake to absorb the pudding filling, making it extra moist and flavorful. The combination of soft cake, creamy filling, and fluffy topping creates a satisfying dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a party, holiday gathering, or simply making it for family, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus the ingredients called for on the box, usually water, oil, and eggs)

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 3 large eggs

For the filling:

• 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

• 2 cups cold milk

For the topping:

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

• Chocolate shavings, chocolate chips, or sprinkles (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

• Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box (usually mixing the cake mix with water, oil, and eggs).

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.

• Bake the cake for the time specified on the box (usually 25-30 minutes) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes.

2. Poke the cake:

• Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a large fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Be sure to make enough holes so the pudding can seep into the cake, but don’t make the holes too large.

3. Prepare the filling:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes, or until the pudding thickens to the consistency of a custard.

• Immediately pour the pudding over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the pudding evenly across the top of the cake.

4. Chill the cake:

• Place the cake in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours (or longer if you prefer). The chilling time allows the pudding filling to set and lets the flavors meld together.

5. Top the cake:

• Once the cake is chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out.

• Garnish with chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles for extra decoration and texture (optional).

6. Serve and enjoy:

• Slice the cake and serve it chilled. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and indulgent layers in every bite!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 slices (depending on how large you cut the pieces)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (for the cake) + 2 hours of chilling time

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (for the cake)

• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including cooling and chilling)

Variations

• Different Cake Flavors: While this recipe uses a chocolate cake mix, you can experiment with other cake flavors like vanilla, red velvet, or even caramel cake for a different twist on the traditional poke cake.

• Add-Ins: For extra flavor and texture, mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed Oreos into the pudding before adding it to the cake.

• Peanut Butter Poke Cake: For a peanut butter twist, mix in 1/2 cup of peanut butter into the whipped topping before spreading it over the cake.

• Fudge Sauce: Drizzle warm fudge sauce over the cake before adding the whipped topping for a double chocolate experience.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chocolate Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cake stays moist and delicious even after a few days.

• Freezing: You can freeze this cake for up to 2 months. Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of the instant mix?

Yes! If you prefer to make homemade pudding, you can use your favorite recipe and pour it over the cake once it’s cooled and set. Just be sure the pudding is thick enough to fill the holes without running too much.

Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream in place of whipped topping. Just make sure it’s stabilized (by adding a little powdered sugar or cream of tartar) so it holds its shape on the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the cake and the pudding filling, refrigerate it overnight, and top it with the whipped topping just before serving.

Can I make this with a cake mix other than chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use a vanilla or any other flavor of cake mix for this recipe. Just adjust the flavor of the pudding and topping to match the cake flavor, such as vanilla pudding for a vanilla cake.

Conclusion

Chocolate Poke Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves rich, indulgent flavors and easy-to-make treats. With a moist, chocolatey cake, creamy pudding filling, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a dessert that satisfies every sweet craving. Whether you’re serving it at a celebration, family gathering, or just because, this Chocolate Poke Cake will always be a crowd favorite! Enjoy every decadent bite!

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