Introduction
If you love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter (and who doesn’t?), this Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake will blow your mind. Rich, moist chocolate cake is soaked in creamy peanut butter filling, then topped with luscious whipped frosting and crushed peanut butter cups — every bite is pure indulgence.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make using simple ingredients — perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients List
For the Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water)
(or use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe)
For the Filling
- 1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
For the Topping
- 1 container (8 oz / 225 g) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- ½ cup (120 g) peanut butter, melted slightly
- ½ cup (90 g) mini peanut butter cups, chopped
- Optional: chocolate syrup drizzle or crushed peanuts
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling & Chilling: 1 hour
- Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
🍰 That’s 40% quicker than traditional layer cakes — with twice the flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare and bake the chocolate cake according to the package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Let cool for 10 minutes after baking.
Step 2: Poke holes
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the warm cake (about 1 inch apart).
Step 3: Make the filling
In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or longer) to let the filling set and absorb.
Step 5: Add topping
Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Drizzle melted peanut butter over the top, then sprinkle with chopped peanut butter cups. Add chocolate syrup or peanuts if desired.
Step 6: Serve
Slice, serve cold, and enjoy that creamy, peanut-buttery perfection!
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Sugar: 32 g
Healthier Alternatives
- Use sugar-free cake mix or whole wheat flour for a lighter version.
- Swap Cool Whip for Greek yogurt whipped topping.
- Choose natural peanut butter with no added sugar.
- Skip candy topping and use dark chocolate shavings instead.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with a glass of cold milk or coffee.
- Add crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.
- Make mini versions in mason jars for parties.
- Top with caramel drizzle for a Reese’s-style twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Poking too few holes: The filling won’t absorb evenly.
- Pouring filling on a hot cake: It can separate — wait 10 minutes after baking.
- Overmixing topping: Keep the whipped layer light and airy.
- Skipping chill time: The cake needs time to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before serving.
- Make-ahead: Perfect dessert to prepare the night before an event — it gets even better overnight!
Conclusion
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is everything you want in a dessert — rich, moist, creamy, and bursting with peanut butter flavor. 🥜🍫 It’s the easiest way to impress your guests (or yourself) with a decadent, bakery-style treat.
👉 Try it today, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more no-fuss, irresistible dessert recipes!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! Just bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and follow the same steps.
Q2: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, for added texture! Creamy gives a smoother filling, but both work.
Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut condensed milk and non-dairy whipped topping.
Q4: How long should it chill before serving?
At least 1 hour — overnight is even better for maximum flavor.
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