The Ultimate Chocolate Poke Cake: An Easy, Decadent Delight

Prepare to indulge in the most irresistible chocolate dessert you’ll ever bake: The Ultimate Chocolate Poke Cake. This recipe takes convenience and transforms it into pure indulgence, combining a perfectly moist chocolate cake base with a luscious instant chocolate pudding filling, all topped with a dreamy, light-as-air whipped chocolate frosting. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists; this cake is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it ideal for seasoned bakers and beginners alike.

Why This Chocolate Poke Cake Stands Above the Rest

Following the immense popularity of our Ultimate Lemon Poke Cake, the demand for a chocolate counterpart was overwhelming. We listened, and we’re thrilled to present a chocolate version that truly lives up to its “ultimate” title. What sets this chocolate poke cake apart? Instead of traditional gelatin, we infuse the cake with rich chocolate pudding, creating an unbelievably moist and intensely chocolatey experience with every bite. The crowning glory is our signature whipped chocolate frosting—a brilliant blend of store-bought chocolate frosting and whipped topping, resulting in a lighter, more ethereal texture that perfectly complements the rich cake without being overly sweet or heavy. It’s a harmonious balance that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Poke cakes have a magical quality, soaking up delicious fillings to deliver an unparalleled moistness that’s hard to achieve with conventional cakes. This recipe truly embraces that magic, ensuring a dessert that’s not just eaten, but savored. It’s a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of simpler times, yet sophisticated enough to impress at any gathering or celebration.

This cake is amazing, making it for the second time as my son’s birthday cake request. Thank you!
– Janel

Endless Possibilities: Explore More Poke Cake Variations

One of the most exciting aspects of poke cakes is their incredible versatility. While chocolate is a timeless classic, the base concept allows for an endless array of flavor combinations. You can mix and match cake mixes, puddings, and frostings to create a dessert tailored to any craving or occasion. We have a vast collection of delightful poke cake recipes on our site, each offering a unique twist on this beloved dessert:

• Banana Pudding Poke Cake: A tropical delight combining a classic yellow cake with creamy banana pudding for a comforting, fruit-infused treat that reminds you of summer days.
• Oreo Pudding Poke Cake: For the cookie lovers! Chocolate cake mix meets rich Oreo pudding, creating a decadent, cookies-and-cream dream. This one is a huge hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for parties.
• Red Velvet Poke Cake: A sophisticated choice, featuring a vibrant red velvet cake infused with smooth cream cheese pudding, reminiscent of a classic red velvet cheesecake. Ideal for Valentine’s Day or any romantic occasion.
• Pineapple Pudding Poke Cake: Experience a burst of sunshine with yellow cake, juicy pineapple slices, and a tangy pineapple pudding filling. It’s like a tropical vacation in dessert form, light and refreshing.
• Boston Cream Poke Cake: A true bakery classic reimagined! Yellow cake is drenched in vanilla pudding and finished with a silky chocolate frosting, mirroring the beloved Boston cream pie. A perfect balance of flavors.
• Carrot Pudding Poke Cake: Enjoy the warm spices of carrot cake perfectly complemented by a creamy vanilla pudding. A delightful option for fall or any time you crave a comforting, spiced dessert with a moist texture.

And these are just a few examples! You can experiment with different cake flavors like vanilla, strawberry, lemon, or even spice cake. Pair them with instant puddings such as pistachio, coconut, butterscotch, or even white chocolate. The key is to let your imagination run wild and find your perfect combination. Whether you prefer fruity, nutty, or intensely chocolatey, there’s a poke cake waiting to be discovered, offering endless opportunities for creativity in your kitchen.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Chocolate Poke Cake

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this show-stopping dessert. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on readily available items that deliver incredible flavor. Quality ingredients, even from a box mix, make a noticeable difference.

For the Cake:

• 15.25 ounce box chocolate cake mix: Opt for a good quality brand for the best flavor and texture. Dark chocolate or devil’s food cake mixes work wonderfully too.
• Ingredients needed to make cake: Typically eggs, oil, and water, as specified on your chosen cake mix box. Make sure these are fresh and at room temperature if possible, for optimal cake rise and texture.
• 3.4 ounce box instant chocolate pudding: It is crucial to use *instant* pudding for this recipe, not the cook-and-serve variety. This ensures proper setting and absorption.
• 2 cups cold milk: Cold milk helps the instant pudding set perfectly and quickly, which is essential for the poke cake method. Whole milk will yield a richer pudding.

For the Frosting:

• 1 tub milk chocolate frosting: A standard 16-ounce tub of your preferred milk chocolate frosting. You can also experiment with dark chocolate or even cream cheese frosting for a different twist.
• ½ tub (4 ounce) whipped topping (COOL WHIP) thawed: Thawed whipped topping is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture that makes our frosting so special. Ensure it’s fully thawed but still cold.

(The full, detailed recipe card with precise measurements and comprehensive instructions can be found at the end of this post.)

How to Make the Ultimate Chocolate Poke Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this decadent chocolate poke cake is a straightforward process, designed for enjoyment from start to finish. Follow these simple steps for a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress with its incredible flavor and moist texture.

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake Foundation

Begin by preparing your chocolate cake according to the package directions. For optimal results, use a 9×13 inch baking dish, which is the perfect size for this recipe, allowing for ample surface area for the pudding infusion. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for approximately 20 minutes. This initial cooling period is crucial: the cake needs to be warm enough to readily absorb the pudding, but not so hot that it “melts” or thins out the pudding, and it needs to be cool enough to handle without crumbling.

Step 2: Create the Signature “Pokes” for Pudding Infusion

Using the handle of a wooden spoon (or a similar round-ended utensil like a dowel or even a wide straw), gently poke holes all over the warm cake. Aim for an even distribution of holes, about 1 inch apart, ensuring each slice will get a generous amount of pudding. Don’t go all the way to the bottom of the pan to avoid breaking the cake, but ensure the holes are deep enough to create substantial channels for the pudding to seep into. These holes are the magic tunnels that will allow the rich chocolate pudding to infuse every layer, delivering incredible moisture and concentrated flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Rich Instant Chocolate Pudding

In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly. It’s important to whisk well to eliminate any lumps, ensuring a silky-smooth pudding. The pudding should be thick enough to hold its shape somewhat but still liquid enough to pour easily into the cake’s holes. The cold milk aids the instant pudding in setting faster and achieving a desirable, firm yet creamy texture.

Step 4: Infuse the Cake with Luscious Pudding

Carefully pour the prepared chocolate pudding mixture evenly over the entire cake, paying special attention to aiming the pudding directly into each of the poked holes. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread any excess pudding across the top surface, ensuring an even coating. Once covered, place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This chilling time is vital for the pudding to fully set and bind with the cake, creating that signature moist and flavorful poke cake texture that everyone loves.

Step 5: Craft the Dreamy Whipped Chocolate Frosting

While the cake is chilling and the pudding is setting, prepare the exquisite whipped chocolate frosting. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the entire tub of milk chocolate frosting until it’s smooth and noticeably lighter in texture. This aeration makes the frosting much easier to work with and gives it a fluffier consistency. Then, gently fold in half a tub (about 4 ounces) of thawed whipped topping (like COOL WHIP). The whipped topping brilliantly lightens the traditional frosting, giving it a wonderfully airy, almost marshmallow-like texture and a less intensely sweet flavor that perfectly complements the rich cake and pudding layers without overpowering them.

Step 6: Frost and Chill for Ultimate Perfection

Once the cake has completely chilled and the pudding is firm, spread the whipped chocolate frosting evenly and generously over the top of the cake. For a neat finish, use an offset spatula to create attractive swirls or a perfectly smooth surface. Return the frosted cake to the refrigerator to chill for another 2-3 hours. This final chill is crucial; it allows the frosting to set beautifully, the flavors to fully meld together, and the entire cake to firm up, making for cleaner, more elegant slices and an even more delightful eating experience. Once fully chilled, slice and serve this heavenly dessert to a chorus of delighted murmurs!

Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Poke Cake Every Time

Achieving poke cake perfection is simpler than you think with these expert tips:

• Don’t Overbake the Cake: An overbaked cake will be dry, which even the pudding might struggle to fix. Stick to the package directions and check for doneness with a toothpick that comes out with moist crumbs, not completely dry.
• Warm Cake, Cold Pudding: The contrast in temperature is absolutely key. A slightly warm cake absorbs the cold pudding more effectively and ensures maximum moistness.
• Evenly Spaced Holes: Take your time to poke holes uniformly across the cake surface. This ensures every single slice gets a delightful burst of pudding goodness and consistent flavor distribution.
• Thoroughly Whisk Pudding: Lumps in the pudding will affect the smooth texture of the filling. Whisk vigorously until the pudding is completely smooth and free of any dry powder.
• Chill Time is Essential: Do not rush the chilling steps. They are crucial for the pudding to set properly, for the frosting to firm up, and most importantly, for the flavors to fully develop and meld, resulting in a cohesive and delicious cake.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, you can slightly reduce the amount of store-bought frosting or increase the whipped topping, adjusting to your personal taste preference.
• Garnish for Elegance: For an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor, garnish your finished cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, a light dusting of cocoa powder, or vibrant fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Ultimate Chocolate Poke Cake is truly at its best when served chilled. For an extra special treat, consider pairing it with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream, a warm drizzle of hot fudge sauce, or a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries. The tartness of the fruit provides a wonderful contrast to the rich, sweet chocolate flavors, balancing the dessert perfectly.

To keep any leftover cake fresh and delicious, store it tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While it’s delightful when first made, many find that the flavors deepen and the cake becomes even moister on the second day, making it an excellent make-ahead option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Poke Cake

Got questions about mastering this delightful dessert? We’ve got answers to help you achieve poke cake perfection every single time.

• Can I use homemade cake or pudding? Absolutely! While this recipe uses convenient box mixes, you can certainly substitute your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe and a scratch-made chocolate pudding for an even more gourmet touch. Just ensure the homemade pudding is properly chilled and thickened before pouring it into the warm cake.
• What if I don’t have a wooden spoon handle to poke holes? No problem at all! A fork can create smaller holes, the back of a skewer can make medium-sized holes, or even the end of a chopstick can work perfectly. Just make sure the holes are about ¼ to ½ inch in diameter and evenly well-distributed across the cake surface.
• Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this is an excellent make-ahead dessert! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld and the pudding has thoroughly permeated the cake. You can prepare the entire cake up to 24 hours in advance, chilling it overnight.
• Can I use a different flavor of pudding? Of course! While this recipe celebrates chocolate-on-chocolate, vanilla, white chocolate, or even a mocha-flavored instant pudding would be delicious and interesting variations. Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors!
• What if I don’t have COOL WHIP? You can easily substitute an equal amount of freshly whipped heavy cream, sweetened to your liking. Ensure the heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks before gently folding it into the frosting for that desired light and airy texture.

Craving More Decadent Dessert Recipes?

If you’re a fan of rich, comforting desserts and love to explore new flavors, be sure to explore some of our other beloved recipes. Each one is crafted to bring joy to your kitchen and your taste buds, perfect for any occasion or simply a sweet treat for yourself!

• Mint Chocolate Chip Poke Cake
• The Best Poke Cake Recipes (A comprehensive collection for all poke cake enthusiasts!)
• Turtle Poke Cake (A delightful combination of caramel, chocolate, and pecans – pure indulgence!)
• Apple Pie Poke Cake
• Black Forest Poke Cake
• Strawberry Pudding Poke Cake
• German Chocolate Poke Cake
• Oreo Poke Cake
• Hot Fudge Chocolate Cake
• Easy Homemade Chocolate Cake
• Grandma’s Texas Sheet Cake
• Chocolate Pudding Bundt Cake
• Cinnamon Roll Cake
• Italian Love Cake
• Italian Cream Cake
• Chocolate Sheet Cake

Originally published: June 2019

Updated photos & republished: February 2021

Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

The Ultimate Chocolate Poke Cake is made with chocolate cake mix, instant chocolate pudding and topped with a whipped chocolate frosting!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars based on 11 reviews

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Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Cooling Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes

Servings: 12

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 15.25 ounce box chocolate cake mix
• Ingredients needed to make cake: eggs, oil and water (as per cake mix box)
• 3.4 ounce box instant chocolate pudding
• 2 cups cold milk

For the frosting:

• 1 tub milk chocolate frosting (standard 16-ounce)
• ½ tub (4 ounce) whipped topping (COOL WHIP), thawed

Instructions

1. Bake cake according to directions on box. Remove from oven and let cool about 20 minutes.
2. Poke holes all over the cake using the end of a wooden spoon.
3. In a bowl, whisk together chocolate pudding and cold milk until smooth. Pour pudding mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
4. Let cake chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour to allow the pudding to set.
5. To make frosting, beat the tub of frosting in a large bowl (using an electric mixer) until smooth. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined. This creates a light, marshmallow-like texture.
6. Spread the whipped chocolate frosting over the chilled cake. Return the cake to the refrigerator and chill again for 2-3 hours before serving for best results.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 392 kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 17g | Sodium: 568mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 35g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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