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
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Pour the Filling: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Spread evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set.
- 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.
- 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!