Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake

This rich chocolate peanut butter poke cake is a perfect indulgence for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and creamy peanut butter. The moist chocolate cake serves as a delicious base while the sweetened condensed milk mixed with melted peanut butter seeps into every bite. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and sprinkled with chocolate chips and chopped peanut butter cups, this dessert never fails to please a crowd.

Ingredients

• One box of chocolate cake mix: with the required eggs, oil, and water for a reliable and moist chocolate base
• One cup of creamy peanut butter: stirred into the batter to add smooth peanut flavor
• One can of sweetened condensed milk: that blends with melted peanut butter creating a sweet, gooey filling
• Half a cup of melted creamy peanut butter: mixed into the condensed milk to deepen the peanut butter taste
• One container of whipped topping, thawed: to add light and fluffy texture on top
• Optional mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings: for garnish bringing extra chocolate crunch
• Optional chopped Reese’s or peanut butter cups: for a nutty, chocolaty topping crowd-pleaser

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare pan:

Preheat your oven as directed on the cake box. Grease and lightly flour a 9 by 13-inch baking dish ensuring the cake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.

Mix Peanut Butter into Batter:

Prepare the cake mix according to the box instructions including eggs, oil, and water. Stir in one cup of creamy peanut butter until smooth to infuse the batter with peanut flavor.

Bake the Cake:

Pour the batter into the greased dish and bake for roughly thirty to thirty-five minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This gives you a moist yet fully cooked cake.

Cool and Poke Holes:

Allow the cake to cool for fifteen minutes. Using a wooden spoon handle or skewer, poke holes about one inch apart evenly covering the surface to let the filling absorb deeply.

Prepare Filling and Pour:

Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and melted peanut butter in a bowl until smooth and pourable. Slowly pour this mixture over the cake, letting it seep into all the holes for moist, flavorful bites.

Refrigerate:

Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the filling thicken slightly for better texture and taste.

Add Topping and Garnish:

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake with a spatula forming a smooth, creamy layer. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and chopped peanut butter cups on top to add crunch and visual appeal.

Slice and Serve:

Cut the cake into squares and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor combination.

Pin it

Storage Tips

Keep the cake refrigerated in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It will stay good for up to four days. If you want to store it longer freeze uncovered pieces wrapped well with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw fully in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap creamy peanut butter for natural peanut butter if you prefer a more pronounced peanut taste, but it may affect sweetness and texture. For a dairy-free option use coconut whipped topping and check the cake mix for vegan versions. Chocolate chips can be replaced with chopped nuts for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert experience. A cup of strong coffee or milk is also a great way to balance the sweetness. For parties, garnish with extra chopped peanuts or a dusting of cocoa powder to impress guests.

Cultural Context

Chocolate and peanut butter are a classic American combination with roots tracing back to peanut butter becoming popular in the early 1900s. This cake takes the traditional pairing and elevates it into an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that fits perfectly in any celebration. The poke cake method itself has become popular for adding layers of flavor and moisture to boxed cakes since the mid 20th century.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the cake stays moist after baking?

Poking holes into the cake and pouring the peanut butter and condensed milk mixture allows the filling to soak in, keeping the cake moist and rich.

→ Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

Using natural peanut butter may affect the texture and consistency of the filling, so creamy peanut butter is recommended for smooth blending.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake before serving?

Yes, chilling the cake helps the filling set and enhances the flavors, making for a better texture and taste when served cold.

→ What can I use to poke holes in the cake?

A wooden spoon handle or a skewer works well to evenly create holes for the filling to soak into the cake.

→ Are the chocolate chips and peanut butter cups mandatory toppings?

They add extra texture and flavor but can be omitted or substituted according to personal preference.