If you’re craving a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe is the answer to your sweet dreams. A luscious chocolate cake laced with creamy peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk seeps into every hole, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor and moisture. Topped with light whipped topping, a peanut butter drizzle, and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips and crunchy peanuts, this cake transforms an everyday boxed mix into a spectacular treat perfect for any celebration or cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples but each plays a vital role in creating the dreamy texture and irresistible flavor of the cake. From the rich chocolate base to the smooth peanut butter infusion, every component works together to make this dessert unforgettable.
- Chocolate cake mix with box ingredients: The foundation of your cake, providing that moist, chocolaty crumb that’s effortless to achieve.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup, divided): Divided to add creaminess inside the cake and as a drizzle topping for extra nutty goodness.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14-ounce can): Infuses sweetness and moisture, soaking into the cake’s holes for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Whipped topping (8-ounce tub, thawed): Adds a light, airy finish that balances the richness perfectly.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup): A fun, melty texture bonus sprinkled on top for little pockets of chocolate delight.
- Chopped peanuts (1/4 cup, optional): Provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cake and creamy layers.
- Chocolate syrup (optional): For an extra drizzle of decadence and visual appeal.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
Start by preparing your chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, using a 9×13-inch baking dish for the perfect thickness. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes to firm up, which makes poking holes easier without breaking the cake apart.
Step 2: Poke the Cake and Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
Take the handle of a wooden spoon and gently poke holes about 1 inch apart all over the warm cake. Meanwhile, microwave 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter for around 30 seconds until slightly melted. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth and ready to soak into the cake’s holes.
Step 3: Pour the Peanut Butter Filling and Cool
Pour the peanut butter and condensed milk mixture evenly over the entire cake, allowing it to seep deeply into the holes you made. This step is magic—it makes every bite explode with flavor and luscious texture. Let the cake cool completely before moving on.
Step 4: Add Whipped Topping and Finishing Touches
Spread the whipped topping evenly across the cooled cake for that airy, creamy layer. Warm the remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter until fluid and drizzle it on top. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and, if you love a little crunch, add chopped peanuts as well. For the final flourish, drizzle some chocolate syrup if you want even more indulgence.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Pop your masterpiece into the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling helps everything set beautifully and melds the flavors for an unforgettable bite of pure delight.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and taste, garnish your cake with extra mini chocolate chips, a few whole peanuts, or a quick dusting of cocoa powder. Fresh berries also add a pop of color and a burst of tartness that complements the sweet richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a more grown-up touch, serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or a rich dessert wine that enhances the chocolate and peanut butter notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this classic cake into an eye-catching centerpiece by serving it in individual glass jars layered with extra peanut butter and chocolate sauce, or cut into squares and presented on a rustic wooden board garnished with a scattering of chopped peanuts and mint leaves. The possibilities to wow your guests are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy a sweet treat without repeated baking sessions.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. When frozen, it maintains its texture and flavor for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
While this cake is best served chilled, if you prefer it slightly warmed, pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This gently loosens the peanut butter drizzle making every bite even more decadent without melting the whipped topping too much.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this poke cake?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind natural peanut butter can sometimes separate, so be sure to stir it well or warm it slightly before mixing with the condensed milk for a smooth filling.
Is it possible to make this poke cake gluten-free?
Yes, swap the boxed chocolate cake mix for a gluten-free variety that’s suitable for baking. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a simple swap for those avoiding gluten.
Can I substitute whipped topping with something else?
Of course! For a richer texture, try spreading chocolate or peanut butter buttercream instead of whipped topping. You can also use freshly whipped cream for a lighter, fresher finish.
How long should I poke the cake after baking?
You only need to poke holes once your cake has slightly cooled but is still warm—about 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This temperature helps the filling soak deeply and keeps the cake structure intact.
Can I add other toppings besides chocolate chips and peanuts?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with sprinkles, crushed pretzels for saltiness, or even a pinch of sea salt flakes to contrast the sweetness. The Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe is very forgiving and perfect for experimentation.
Final Thoughts
Making the Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe is like giving yourself a little hug in cake form. The ease of the ingredients, combined with the stunningly rich peanut butter and chocolate infusion, means you can create a memorable dessert without any fuss. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing your friends, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles and happy moments. So go ahead and bake it—you won’t regret diving into this luscious, cozy indulgence!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a moist, delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with a creamy peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk filling. Topped with whipped topping, chocolate chips, and peanuts, this poke cake is an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser perfect for parties or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: typically eggs, oil, and water)
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (divided)
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
Topping
- 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (thawed)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions and pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake as directed and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Poke the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly all over the cake about 1 inch apart to allow the filling to seep in.
- Make Peanut Butter Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat 3/4 cup of peanut butter until slightly melted (about 30 seconds). Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Fill the Cake: Pour the peanut butter and condensed milk mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Add Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
- Decorate: Warm the remaining 1/4 cup of peanut butter and drizzle it over the whipped topping. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and optional chopped peanuts. Drizzle chocolate syrup on top for extra indulgence if desired.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and the cake set.
Notes
- For extra texture, use crunchy peanut butter in the filling.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and kept chilled until ready to serve.
- For a richer topping, replace whipped topping with chocolate or peanut butter buttercream.
