Indulge in a luscious Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake—a moist chocolate cake infused with melted peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk, topped with a creamy peanut butter whipped topping. It’s the ultimate dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Decadent: Perfectly balanced flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite.
• Easy to Make: Uses a boxed cake mix for convenience with a homemade touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, potlucks, or family desserts.
• Make-Ahead Dessert: Best served chilled, so it’s perfect for prepping in advance.
• Customizable Toppings: Add mini chocolate chips, shavings, or even crushed peanuts for extra flair.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the package)
• creamy peanut butter, melted
• sweetened condensed milk

For the Topping:

• whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
• peanut butter, melted
• powdered sugar
• mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions.
2. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed on the package.
3. Allow the cake to cool slightly after baking.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

1. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke evenly spaced holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Condensed Milk

1. Melt the peanut butter and mix it thoroughly with the sweetened condensed milk.
2. Pour the mixture over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
3. Let the cake cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a medium bowl, fold the melted peanut butter into the thawed whipped topping until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Spread the peanut butter whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
2. Garnish with mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings for a decorative and tasty finish, if desired.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set.
2. Slice and serve this decadent dessert chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed peanuts or peanut butter cups on top for added texture.
• Flavor Twist: Replace the chocolate cake with yellow or peanut butter cake mix.
• Drizzle of Elegance: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce before serving.
• Filling Alternatives: Use caramel sauce or hot fudge in addition to or instead of the sweetened condensed milk.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for peanut butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the assembled cake (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the whipped topping and serving.
• Reheating: Serve cold; reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, homemade whipped cream works well. Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

How can I ensure the filling seeps into the cake properly?

Make sure to poke deep holes while the cake is still slightly warm, so the peanut butter mixture absorbs easily.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to accommodate dietary needs.

What if my peanut butter is too thick to mix?

Microwave the peanut butter for 15–20 seconds to make it easier to mix and pour.

Can I use dark chocolate chips for garnish?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a richer flavor contrast to the sweetness.

Is it necessary to chill the cake before serving?

Yes, chilling helps the flavors meld together and sets the whipped topping for a better texture.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred to avoid a grainy texture.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

Use evaporated milk mixed with sugar as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor.

Can I make individual servings of this cake?

Yes, bake the cake in muffin tins and layer the filling and topping on each portion for single servings.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or prepare two separate cakes for bigger gatherings.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in an easy-to-make treat. Whether it’s for a party, potluck, or simple family dinner, this cake will impress with its decadent texture and creamy, flavorful topping. Serve it chilled, and get ready for rave reviews!

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