Indulge in the ultimate combination of chocolate and peanut butter with this decadent poke cake. Moist chocolate cake is infused with a luscious peanut butter mixture, topped with a creamy whipped peanut butter frosting, and garnished with chocolate chips for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Flavor Combo: Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in dessert heaven.
- Ultra Moist Texture: The poke cake method ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Show-Stopping Dessert: Ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or a sweet treat for yourself.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the package)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Condensed Milk
- Melt the peanut butter and mix it with the sweetened condensed milk.
- Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a medium bowl, fold the melted peanut butter into the thawed whipped topping until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and stir until creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Spread the peanut butter whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish with mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings if desired.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Slice and serve this rich, indulgent dessert.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes
Variations
- Reese’s Delight: Add crushed Reese’s Pieces or peanut butter cups on top for extra decadence.
- Chocolate Lover’s Option: Drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate syrup over the frosting.
- Nut-Free Version: Use a peanut butter substitute like sunflower seed butter.
- Homemade Cake Base: Replace the box mix with your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe.
- Crunchy Texture: Add chopped peanuts or pretzels for a salty crunch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cake (without the whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then add the topping before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred to avoid separation, as natural peanut butter tends to be thinner.
2. What if I don’t have whipped topping?
You can use freshly whipped cream stabilized with a bit of powdered sugar.
3. How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?
Allow the cake to cool completely after adding the peanut butter mixture to avoid over-saturation.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is even better when made a day ahead, as the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Can I use dark chocolate chips for garnish?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a more intense chocolate flavor.
6. Is this cake overly sweet?
The sweetness is balanced by the peanut butter. You can reduce the powdered sugar in the topping for a milder taste.
7. Can I use homemade peanut butter?
Yes, homemade peanut butter works as long as it has a smooth consistency.
8. How do I ensure even holes in the cake?
Use the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes evenly spaced about 1 inch apart.
9. Can I add a layer of ganache?
Yes, a thin layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and the topping would be a delicious addition.
10. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. Its moist chocolate base, rich peanut butter filling, and creamy topping create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet craving, this easy recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it today and savor the perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a decadent chocolate peanut butter poke cake! Rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and a whipped peanut butter topping make this dessert an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the package)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bake the chocolate cake:
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed.
- Once baked, let the cake cool slightly.
- Poke the cake:
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Add peanut butter and condensed milk:
- Melt the peanut butter and mix it with the sweetened condensed milk.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Prepare the topping:
- In a medium bowl, fold the melted peanut butter into the thawed whipped topping until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and mix until creamy.
- Assemble the cake:
- Spread the peanut butter whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish with mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings, if desired.
- Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Slice and enjoy this rich, indulgent dessert!
Notes
- This cake tastes better the longer it chills, so prepare it in advance for the best flavor.
- Swap mini chocolate chips with crushed peanut butter cups for added indulgence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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