introduction
Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy vanilla. It’s a fun twist on the classic Boston Cream Pie, made easier as a poke cake. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this cake will surely impress everyone with its delicious layers and fun presentation.
why make this recipe
Making Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require advanced baking skills. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser with its moist cake, rich custard, and smooth chocolate ganache. This dessert is all about convenience and deliciousness!
how to make Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake
Ingredients:
-
For the Cake:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
-
For the Custard Filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter
-
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the vanilla cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake the cake according to the package instructions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the custard filling. In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter. Let it cool.
- Once the cake is cool, use a fork to poke holes all over the top. Pour the custard filling over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
- For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the custard-covered cake, spreading it evenly. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
how to serve Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake
Cut the Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake into squares and serve it chilled. You can top each piece with whipped cream or chocolate shavings for an extra touch. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.
how to store Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing individual slices.
tips to make Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before poking holes and adding the custard. This helps keep the filling from leaking out.
- Stir the custard continuously while it cooks to avoid lumps.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the ganache by using more or less chocolate.
variation
You can make a chocolate cake instead of a vanilla cake for a richer flavor. Additionally, try adding fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas between layers for a fruity twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Yes, you can use any vanilla cake recipe you like! Just make sure it is a 9×13 inch cake.
2. How do I make the custard thicker?
To make a thicker custard, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture while cooking.
3. Can I use non-dairy milk for the custard?
Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with almond milk or coconut milk, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake
- Total Time: 155 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy vanilla in a fun poke cake format.
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Mix the vanilla cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake the cake according to the package instructions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the custard filling. In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter. Let it cool.
- Poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake using a fork. Pour the custard filling over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the custard-covered cake, spreading it evenly. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 120 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make sure the cake is completely cool before poking holes and adding the custard. This helps keep the filling from leaking out. Adjust the sweetness of the ganache by using more or less chocolate.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg




