Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Death by Chocolate Poke Cake is the perfect dessert for any chocolate enthusiast. The poke cake technique ensures that every bite is loaded with flavor, as the cake absorbs all the delicious chocolate pudding filling. Topped with a creamy whipped topping and sprinkled with chocolate chips, this cake is both visually stunning and unbelievably delicious. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and sure to impress at any party or gathering.

Ingredients

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)

  • 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

  • 2 cups milk

  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips)

  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup (optional, for drizzling)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Bake the Cake:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.

    • Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions (usually adding eggs, oil, and water).

    • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    • Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.

  2. Poke the Cake:

    • Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the cake, about 1-inch apart. Make sure to poke down to the bottom of the cake but be careful not to tear it.

  3. Prepare the Pudding Filling:

    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.

  4. Fill the Cake:

    • Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, spreading it evenly into the holes so the pudding sinks in. Use a spatula to smooth the surface of the cake if necessary.

  5. Top with Whipped Topping:

    • Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake, covering the pudding and smoothing it out to the edges.

  6. Add the Finishing Touches:

    • Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips) over the whipped topping.

    • Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra touch of chocolate flavor.

  7. Chill:

    • Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to fully set.

  8. Serve and Enjoy!

    • Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the ultimate chocolate indulgence!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-16

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 30 minutes

  • Chill time: 2 hours

  • Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

  • Add More Layers: For an even richer cake, you can add a layer of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce between the cake and the pudding.

  • Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl peanut butter into the pudding mixture before filling the cake for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.

  • Fresh Berries: Top the whipped cream with fresh raspberries or strawberries to balance the richness of the chocolate and add a burst of freshness.

  • Coffee Flavor: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cake mix or pudding for a coffee-chocolate flavor that enhances the richness of the cake.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftover Death by Chocolate Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Reheating: This cake is best served chilled, and it doesn’t need reheating. Just serve it straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually gets better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld together for an even richer taste.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! You can substitute a homemade chocolate cake for the box mix if you prefer. Just make sure to bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and poke holes in it as you would with the boxed version.

Can I use a different type of pudding?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of pudding, such as vanilla, caramel, or even white chocolate. Each variation will give a different flavor profile.

Can I make this cake without whipped topping?

If you prefer, you can make your own whipped cream by whipping heavy cream with a little sugar until stiff peaks form. This will give the cake a fresher, less processed topping.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, including the pudding mix.

Can I freeze Death by Chocolate Poke Cake?

While this cake can technically be frozen, the whipped topping and pudding may change in texture after freezing and thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze individual portions for a quick treat.

Can I add more chocolate chips to the cake?

Yes, if you’re a chocolate lover, you can add more chocolate chips to both the cake and the pudding filling for an extra burst of chocolate flavor.

Can I use a different topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, you can use a layer of chocolate ganache, or even a cream cheese frosting for a different texture and flavor profile. This would make the cake even richer!

How can I make this cake less sweet?

If you want to tone down the sweetness, you can use a less sweet pudding mix (such as vanilla) or reduce the amount of chocolate syrup you drizzle on top.

Can I use regular chocolate pudding mix instead of instant?

It’s best to use instant chocolate pudding mix for this recipe, as it sets up quickly and easily. Regular pudding mix requires cooking and may not set properly in the poke cake.

Conclusion

Death by Chocolate Poke Cake is the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a serious sweet tooth. Its rich layers of chocolate cake, creamy pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and crunchy chocolate chips create a dessert that’s both decadent and irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy even the most dedicated chocolate lovers. Make it, enjoy it, and experience the true meaning of “death by chocolate!”

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Death by Chocolate Poke Cake

Death by Chocolate Poke Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12-16 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

Death by Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that layers moist chocolate cake with creamy chocolate pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and chocolate chips. This indulgent, no-bake treat is the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream and perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)

  • 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

  • 2 cups milk

  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips)

  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

  • Bake the Cake
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions (typically adding eggs, oil, and water).
    Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.

  • Poke the Cake
    Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the cake, about 1-inch apart. Make sure to poke all the way down to the bottom of the cake but be careful not to tear it.

  • Prepare the Pudding Filling
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.

  • Fill the Cake
    Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, spreading it evenly into the holes so the pudding sinks in. Use a spatula to smooth the surface of the cake if necessary.

  • Top with Whipped Topping
    Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake, covering the pudding and smoothing it out to the edges.

  • Add the Finishing Touches
    Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips) over the whipped topping.
    Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra touch of chocolate flavor (optional).

  • Chill
    Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to fully set.

  • Serve and Enjoy
    Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the ultimate chocolate indulgence!

Notes

For a richer cake, add a layer of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce between the cake and the pudding.Try a peanut butter twist by swirling peanut butter into the pudding mixture before filling the cake.Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can balance the richness and add a burst of freshness.For a coffee flavor, add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cake mix or pudding.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star