Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Ingredients: For the Cake:; 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients on the box: eggs, oil, water); 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor); For the Peanut Butter Filling:; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; ½ cup whole milk; For the Peanut Butter Whipped Topping:; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ¼ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; For Garnish:; ½ cup chopped Reese’s or mini peanut butter cups; ¼ cup crushed peanuts (optional); Melted chocolate + melted peanut butter for drizzle

Indulging in dessert has never been easier than with this Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake recipe! Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter, this cake is an irresistible treat that will wow your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With its moist texture, decadent filling, and inviting whipped topping, this poke cake takes the classic flavor combination to a whole new level. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because, it brings joy to any occasion!

This delightfully simple recipe utilizes a box of chocolate cake mix and transforms it into something truly special with minimal effort. The idea behind a poke cake is that the cake is ‘punched’ with holes, allowing a creamy filling to infuse every bite with flavor. Trust us; there’s nothing quite like biting into this luscious cake, where every slice is filled with chocolate and peanut butter goodness. Let’s dive into how to create your very own Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake

Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates an unforgettable flavor pairing loved by many.
Easy to Prepare: Using a box mix simplifies the process while still allowing for delicious results.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a casual family gathering, this cake is sure to impress!
Makes a Great Make-Ahead Dessert: This cake can be prepared a day in advance, giving the flavors time to meld beautifully.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making this delectable poke cake, a little preparation goes a long way. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. It’s also a good idea to gather your ingredients and tools ahead of time to streamline the baking process.

You will need mixing bowls, measuring cups, a whisk, and an electric mixer or a hand mixer to create that fluffy peanut butter whipped topping. Make sure your mixing bowl for the whipping cream is chilled, as this will help achieve the best texture. Additionally, have a wooden spoon or similar utensil handy for poking the holes in the cake, which is a crucial step in allowing the filling to soak in. By taking these preparatory steps, you’ll set yourself up for success!

Ingredients

For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients on the box: eggs, oil, water)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
½ cup whole milk
For the Peanut Butter Whipped Topping:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ cup creamy peanut butter
For Garnish:
½ cup chopped Reese’s or mini peanut butter cups
¼ cup crushed peanuts (optional)
Melted chocolate + melted peanut butter for drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the directions on the box, making sure to incorporate any additional ingredients such as eggs, oil, and water. If desired, add in a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of extra flavor. Once combined, pour the batter into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish and distribute it evenly. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk until you achieve a smooth consistency. While the cake is still warm, take the handle of a wooden spoon and carefully poke holes all over the surface of the cake — spacing is essential so that every bite will enjoy that peanut butter goodness. Slowly pour the delicious peanut butter filling over the poke cake, making sure to let it seep into the holes for the ultimate flavor infusion.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Whipped Topping

Next, take a chilled mixing bowl and beat the heavy whipping cream along with the powdered sugar using an electric mixer until soft peaks start to form. Once you’ve achieved that fluffy texture, gently fold in the creamy peanut butter and continue mixing until everything is combined and fluffy. This decadent whipped topping will provide an incredible finish on top of your cake!

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

When your cake has completely cooled, it’s time to spread that delightful peanut butter whipped topping evenly over the top. Be generous, as this topping is truly what makes this cake shine! Next, grab those chopped Reese’s cups and sprinkle them atop the whipped frosting, adding some crushed peanuts if desired for an extra crunch. To elevate your dessert even further, drizzle melted chocolate and peanut butter over the top, making it look as good as it tastes.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Finally, it’s essential to refrigerate the cake for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and helps the filling to set up properly. When ready to serve, slice and enjoy the deliciousness of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake!

Variations

Protein: For some extra filling, consider layering extra chopped Reese’s cups between layers for a double dose of that divine peanut butter taste!
Vegetables: If you’re looking to add a bit of texture, consider adding some crushed graham crackers or caramelized nuts in the mix!
Spices: Spice things up a bit! A sprinkle of sea salt or cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile and balance out the sweetness.

Cooking Notes

For a snappier version, bake the cake a day ahead and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor.
When preparing the filling, make sure your peanut butter is at room temperature to help achieve a smooth blend.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent dessert experience.
For those who enjoy a bit of contrast, consider serving it with fresh berries or a berry compote for a touch of acidity.

Tips

For best results, make sure to let the cake cool completely before adding the whipped topping to prevent it from melting.
When drizzling chocolate and peanut butter on top, feel free to experiment with the ratios to find your perfect combination!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including cooling and chilling)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per slice
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! Any chocolate cake recipe works beautifully here. Homemade cakes often add an extra love factor!

Which peanut butter is best?

Creamy peanut butter gives a smooth texture that easily blends in, while crunchy peanut butter can add a fun crunch to your cake. Choose according to your preference!

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Making it a day ahead and refrigerating it allows the flavors to intensify and can also lead to a more sumptuous texture.

Can I use another frosting?

Absolutely! You can interchange the peanut butter whipped topping with cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even whipped cream for alternative flavors.

How do I prevent sogginess?

It’s important to pour the filling evenly and allow enough time for it to absorb before adding the final topping. This ensures a perfectly moist, not soggy, cake.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make this cake gluten-free by opting for a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Just be sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is the epitome of a crowd-pleasing dessert that marries rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter in every bite. Its simplicity and adaptability make it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs who want to whip up something delicious without a fuss. Share this cake with loved ones, and don’t forget to try experimenting with your variations — whether it’s adding more chocolate or incorporating different fillings. We love hearing your thoughts and any special touches you make to the dish, so don’t hesitate to comment or share your recreations. Now, gather those ingredients and embark on a baking adventure that promises a mouthful of happiness!