If there’s one combination that has stood the test of time, it’s the irresistible duo of chocolate and peanut butter. It’s rich, it’s decadent, and it’s downright irresistible. For all of you dessert lovers out there, you’ve just stumbled upon your next favorite treat! Introducing Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake, a dessert that combines the richness of chocolate cake with the creamy, nutty sweetness of peanut butter what’s not to love?
In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of making this delicious dessert, so you can enjoy every moist, melt-in-your-mouth bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, this cake is the perfect treat to impress anyone.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that delivers an explosion of flavor with minimal effort, then this recipe is perfect for you! The poke cake method infuses every bite with chocolatey goodness and a creamy peanut butter filling. Plus, it’s topped off with a smooth, whipped topping that makes every slice feel indulgent. It’s the best of both worlds – a comforting cake texture with a fun and unique twist.
- Moist chocolate cake: The cake stays wonderfully moist due to the poke technique, making every bite feel like a treat.
- Peanut butter filling: The peanut butter mixture soaks into the holes in the cake, infusing it with creamy, nutty goodness.
- Whipped topping: Light, fluffy, and smooth this topping perfectly balances out the richness of the cake and peanut butter.
- Optional chopped peanuts: For those who love an extra crunch, chopped peanuts add the perfect finishing touch.
If this sounds like your dream dessert, then keep reading to learn how to make it!
Ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box, typically water, oil, and eggs)
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, based on your preference)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (for making the whipped topping)
- 1 cup whipped topping (store-bought is fine)
- ½ cup chopped peanuts (optional, for added crunch)
These ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s sweet, creamy, and chocolatey with just the right amount of texture. It’s easy to make, yet it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the recipe! Follow these easy steps to make your very own Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake.
1. Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to the temperature recommended on the chocolate cake mix box. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
Next, prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the box. This typically involves mixing the cake mix with water, oil, and eggs until smooth. Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly spread out.
Bake the cake for the recommended time, typically around 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before moving on to the next step.
2. Poke the Cake
After the cake has cooled slightly, it’s time for the fun part! Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure the holes are deep, but not all the way to the bottom just enough to allow the peanut butter mixture to soak into the cake.
Poking holes in the cake is the key to creating that irresistible moistness and allowing the filling to seep into every bite. The more holes you make, the more flavor the cake will absorb!
3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a medium, microwave-safe bowl, microwave 1 cup of peanut butter for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes soft and easier to stir. Once it’s melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This peanut butter mixture will act as a creamy filling that soaks into the holes you just made in the cake.
Carefully pour the peanut butter mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into every hole. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy it’s all part of the process. The cake will soak up all that creamy goodness, making it even more flavorful.
4. Make the Whipped Topping
Now it’s time to make the topping that will crown your cake in pure delight! In a small bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. This means that when you pull the beaters out, the whipped cream should hold its shape and not fall back into the bowl.
Once your heavy cream is whipped, gently fold in the 1 cup of whipped topping. This will create a light, airy mixture that is easy to spread and complements the rich cake beneath. It’s the perfect finishing touch to your dessert.
5. Top the Cake
Spread the whipped topping mixture evenly over the top of the cake, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Use a spatula to smooth it out and create an even layer.
If you’re a fan of a little crunch, now is the time to sprinkle chopped peanuts over the topping. This adds a delicious texture contrast and enhances the peanut flavor. The crunchy peanuts perfectly balance out the creamy and fluffy topping.
6. Chill and Serve
The cake needs to chill for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and for the cake to set. This also helps the whipped topping firm up and become even more luscious.
Once the cake has chilled, slice it into 12 servings and serve cold. The result is a decadent, creamy, and moist cake that will have everyone coming back for more.
Nutritional Information for Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Curious about how many calories this dreamy dessert packs? Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Servings: 12 servings
This cake is rich and indulgent, so if you’re looking for a special treat or need a dessert to impress guests, this is it!
Perfect Pairings for Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
While this cake is amazing on its own, here are a few ideas for sides and drinks that complement its flavor:
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a perfect contrast to the richness of the cake.
- Fresh berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries can add a tart note that balances out the sweetness of the dessert.
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and peanut butter flavors, enhancing the richness of the cake.
- Milk: There’s nothing like a cold glass of milk to wash down this dessert.
Variations of Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
This recipe is versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Nutty twist: If you love nuts, feel free to add chopped almonds, walnuts, or cashews into the peanut butter mixture or as a topping.
- Chocolate ganache: For extra decadence, drizzle a homemade or store-bought chocolate ganache over the whipped topping.
- Sliced bananas: Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the cake before the whipped topping for a delicious banana-peanut butter combo.
FAQs About Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you prefer to make your cake from scratch, you can use a homemade chocolate cake recipe instead of store-bought cake mix.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day ahead. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Of course! If you prefer a little more texture, feel free to use crunchy peanut butter. It will add a delightful crunch to the cake.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Store the cake in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving again.
Conclusion: Why This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a Must-Try Dessert
In conclusion, Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is an incredibly easy and fun dessert to make that combines two beloved flavors: chocolate and peanut butter. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake is sure to please. With its rich, moist cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and fluffy topping, it’s the perfect indulgence after a long day. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and treat yourself to this dessert dream come true!
And for more delicious recipes like this one, check out these other crowd-pleasers:
- Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Penne – Spicy, Creamy, and Irresistible
- Sizzling Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip – Irresistible & Cheesy
- Loaded Cheddar Bacon Chicken Fingers – A Must-Try Appetizer
Enjoy the cake and be sure to share your creations with friends and family!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake – A Dream Dessert
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake combines rich chocolate cake with a creamy peanut butter filling, topped with a fluffy whipped topping and crunchy peanuts. It’s the ultimate dessert dream come true!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whipped topping
- ½ cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the chocolate cake mix box. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and prepare the cake batter as directed. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake as instructed on the box.
- Poke the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and cool for 10 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the cake, making sure the holes are deep.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the peanut butter for about 30 seconds until soft. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Pour this peanut butter mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Make the Whipped Topping: In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a smooth, airy mixture.
- Top the Cake: Spread the whipped topping mixture over the cake and sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, if desired.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow it to set. Slice and serve your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake chilled. Enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer a more peanut butter-rich topping, you can add more chopped peanuts or drizzle extra peanut butter on top before serving.
- For extra indulgence, try adding chocolate chips to the whipped topping for more texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Chocolate peanut butter poke cake, chocolate cake, peanut butter dessert, poke cake, easy cake recipes, dessert ideas, no-bake dessert, cake with peanut butter, rich chocolate cake