Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. This rich and moist chocolate cake is infused with a luscious peanut butter filling, topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting, and finished with a drizzle of chocolate and peanut butter cups for extra indulgence. Perfect for parties, holidays, or any time you’re craving something sweet, this cake is easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Uses a simple cake mix base with a few delicious upgrades.
- Rich and Moist – The poke cake method ensures every bite is filled with peanut butter goodness.
- Perfect Flavor Combination – Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in dessert heaven.
- Great for Any Occasion – A crowd-pleasing dessert that’s ideal for potlucks, birthdays, and holidays.
- Customizable – Add different toppings or adjust the sweetness to your preference.
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 required eggs, oil, and water)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Peanut butter (smooth)
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream or milk
- Vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Chocolate syrup
- Mini peanut butter cups, chopped
- Crushed peanuts (optional)
Directions
- Bake the Cake – Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool slightly.
- Poke Holes – Using the back of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake.
- Make the Filling – In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter until slightly melted, then mix with sweetened condensed milk.
- Pour Over the Cake – Evenly pour the peanut butter mixture over the cake, letting it soak into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Frosting – Beat the cream cheese, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Slowly add heavy cream until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Cake – Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the chilled cake.
- Add Toppings – Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle with chopped peanut butter cups and crushed peanuts.
- Chill & Serve – Refrigerate for another 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-15
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Variations
- Extra Chocolatey: Add a layer of chocolate ganache before frosting.
- Crunchy Texture: Mix crushed pretzels into the topping for a sweet and salty twist.
- Lighter Version: Use a sugar-free cake mix and reduced-fat peanut butter.
- Different Frosting: Swap the peanut butter frosting for whipped cream or chocolate buttercream.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with cookie butter or a nut-free spread.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Best served chilled, but you can warm individual slices for 10-15 seconds in the microwave if you prefer a softer texture.
FAQs
What is a poke cake?
A poke cake is a cake that has holes poked into it after baking, allowing a liquid filling to soak in for extra flavor and moisture.
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a cake mix?
Yes! Any moist chocolate cake recipe will work as a base for this poke cake.
How do I keep the frosting from being too thick?
Add heavy cream or milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but the filling and frosting will have small peanut bits instead of being completely smooth.
What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
You can substitute it with a mix of heavy cream and powdered sugar, but the texture may be slightly different.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?
Make sure to let the cake cool slightly before adding the peanut butter mixture and don’t over-saturate it.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes! Chocolate frosting or even a simple whipped cream topping would work well.
What’s the best way to cut a poke cake?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
Can I use a different candy topping?
Absolutely! Try chopped Snickers, M&Ms, or crushed Oreos for a fun twist.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is an easy, rich, and decadent dessert that’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the classic chocolate-peanut butter combo. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family gathering, or just a special treat for yourself, this cake is packed with flavor and indulgence. Try different toppings and variations to make it your own and enjoy every delicious bite!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and moist chocolate poke cake filled with creamy peanut butter and topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup chocolate syrup
For the Topping:
- 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup peanut butter chips (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Prepare and bake the chocolate cake as directed on the box in a 9×13-inch pan.
- Poke Holes: Once the cake is out of the oven, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over.
- Add the Filling: Warm the peanut butter slightly and mix with condensed milk. Pour over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Top & Serve: Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake, sprinkle with chocolate chips, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Reese’s cups or chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
- Serve chilled for the best texture.
Find it online: https://wowrecipesfood.com/chocolate-peanut-butter-poke-cake/
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