Irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake

Irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake: A Decadent Dessert Delight

Summary

The Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a rich, moist, and indulgent dessert that perfectly blends the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. This cake is a dream come true for dessert lovers, featuring a tender chocolate cake infused with creamy peanut butter, drizzled with a luscious peanut butter sauce, and topped with a light, fluffy whipped topping and crushed peanut butter cups. Whether for a family gathering, birthday celebration, or just because, this cake will surely be the star of the table.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Servings

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Additional Time (Cooling & Chilling): 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Servings: 12
  • Calories per Serving: ~420 kcal

Courses & Cuisines

  • Course: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

For the Topping:

  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter, melted
  • 1 cup crushed peanut butter cups
  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup (optional)

 

Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or handle for poking holes
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
  3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool and Poke: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  5. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
  6. Pour the Filling: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Spread evenly with a spatula.
  7. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set.
  8. Add the Topping: Once chilled, spread the whipped topping over the entire cake. Drizzle the melted peanut butter and chocolate syrup over the top, then sprinkle with crushed peanut butter cups.
  9. Final Chill: Chill the cake for an additional 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Recipe Variations

  • Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
  • Chocolate Overload: Add a layer of chocolate ganache before the whipped topping.
  • Healthier Twist: Use a sugar-free cake mix and light whipped topping.
  • Crunchy Texture: Top with chopped peanuts or pretzels for added crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?**A: Absolutely! Any rich, moist chocolate cake recipe will work beautifully.
**Q: How long does this cake last in the fridge?**A: It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Q: Can I freeze this cake?**A: Yes, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.

Notes

  • Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding the topping to prevent melting.
  • The more holes you poke, the more peanut butter goodness seeps into the cake!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~420 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Sugar: 32g

Conclusion

The Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. With its soft, moist chocolate base, creamy peanut butter filling, and dreamy whipped topping, every bite is a taste of pure bliss. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in your sweet tooth, this cake will never disappoint. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to dessert!

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