Delicious Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

Chocolate poke cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone craving an extra-moist, deeply chocolatey treat that’s both easy and impressive.

This cake takes a classic chocolate base and elevates it by letting a luscious pudding filling soak into every bite, creating a texture that’s creamy and rich from top to bottom.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, need a make-ahead potluck dessert, or want something comforting for a weeknight, this recipe delivers.

With options for homemade or shortcut methods, plus expert tips for flawless results, you’ll enjoy an indulgent chocolate poke cake that always wows.

Ingredients Checklist

Gathering all ingredients in advance ensures a smooth baking experience and best results. Here’s everything you’ll need, with notes for customization.

• For the Chocolate Cake Base

  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour (can sub with cake flour for extra tenderness)

  • 1 3/4 cups (350 g) granulated sugar

  • 3/4 cup (65–70 g) high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar/lemon juice)

  • 1 cup hot coffee or hot water (coffee intensifies chocolate flavor)

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil

  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• For the Poke Filling

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

  • 1/2 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed (or chocolate syrup for a lighter option)

  • 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

  • 1 1/2 cups cold whole milk

• For the Topping

  • 2 cups cold heavy cream or 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (if making homemade whipped cream)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings, chocolate chips, or sprinkles

• Optional Add-Ins

  • Chopped toasted nuts (pecans, walnuts)

  • Toffee bits, chopped candy bars, or peanut butter cups for garnish

  • Flaky sea salt for a flavor boost

Step-by-Step Instructions

Having clear steps and troubleshooting notes will help your cake turn out perfectly every time. Take your time at each stage for best results.

1. Prepare and Bake the Cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line the bottom with parchment if desired for easy removal. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until well combined.

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until blended. Slowly add the hot coffee or water, stirring until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Do not overbake.

2. Cool and Poke the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes all over the cake, spacing about 1 inch apart. Make sure to poke deep enough for the filling to soak through, but don’t break the cake apart.

3. Add the Filling
In a small bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and hot fudge sauce. Pour this mixture slowly and evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable. Immediately pour and spread the pudding evenly over the cake, pushing it into the holes as well. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour, or until the filling is well set.

4. Prepare the Topping
If making homemade whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes. Pour cold heavy cream into the bowl, add powdered sugar and vanilla, and whip on medium-high until stiff peaks form. Spread whipped cream or thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.

5. Finish and Decorate
Sprinkle the top with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, toffee bits, or any of your chosen garnishes. Return the cake to the fridge for at least 2 more hours before serving. This improves texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Results

A few extra steps and choices can help elevate your poke cake to bakery-quality and avoid common mishaps.

• Don’t skip sifting dry ingredients: This prevents lumps and gives you a lighter crumb.

• Coffee in the batter: Coffee won’t make your cake taste like coffee, but it will enhance the chocolate flavor and add depth.

• Poke the cake while warm, not hot: This ensures the cake holds its structure but still absorbs the filling well.

• Pour fillings slowly: Rushing will cause puddles on top and uneven soaking. Use a spoon to help direct the filling into the holes.

• Let the pudding stay pourable: Don’t let it fully set before pouring or it won’t seep into the cake.

• Always chill before slicing: Cold cake holds together better and allows flavors to meld.

• For extra flavor: Add a pinch of espresso powder to the cake or a layer of caramel sauce under the whipped topping.

• Homemade vs. store-bought: Homemade whipped cream is richer and fresher, but whipped topping gives more stability if you need to make the cake ahead.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance the presentation and the eating experience with these creative serving ideas.

• Serve chilled, directly from the pan, for a classic potluck style.

• For dinner parties, garnish each slice with a mint leaf, extra chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

• Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a show-stopping à la mode dessert.

• Pair with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a bright, tangy contrast.

• Turn leftovers into parfaits: layer cake cubes, whipped cream, and berries in glasses for a simple trifle.

• For a birthday, add candles and festive sprinkles.

Final Thoughts

This chocolate poke cake recipe is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers who want a cake that’s both moist and decadent without being difficult or fussy.

By following these tested steps and tips, you’ll get a dessert that’s rich, gooey, and perfect for any crowd—plus endlessly adaptable with different toppings and fillings.

Keep this recipe in your collection for holidays, birthdays, or any time you want to share a little chocolate happiness.