why make this recipe
Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with sweet cherry filling and a creamy pudding layer. This cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. The layers of flavors work together to create a moist and satisfying treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet indulgence at home.
how to make Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake
Ingredients :
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil for a tropical twist)
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries, pitted and chopped)
- 1/4 cup cherry juice (optional, for added flavor)
For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk (can use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option)
For Topping:
- 1 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Directions :
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Poke the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Make sure to space the holes about 1 inch apart.
Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with cherry juice (if using). Pour the cherry filling evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Pudding
In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes. Spread the pudding layer over the cherry filling, smoothing it out evenly.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top for an added crunch. For a decorative touch, garnish with fresh cherries.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful combination of cherry and chocolate!
how to serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake
This cake is best served cold. Slice it into pieces and offer it on dessert plates. You can add extra fresh cherries on top or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for decoration.
how to store Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake
Store the leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag.
tips to make Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake
- For a richer chocolate flavor, you can add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cake batter.
- Experiment with different types of pudding, like white chocolate or vanilla, for a unique twist.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
variation
You can switch out the cherry filling for other fruits like strawberries or blueberries, making a variety of poke cakes. Each fruit brings a different flavor and can complement the chocolate cake beautifully.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Yes! Feel free to use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe instead of the box mix.
2. Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure that the pudding mix and other ingredients are gluten-free.
3. How long can I keep the leftovers?
You can store this cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If frozen, it can last for about 2-3 months.
Enjoy making this tasty Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake, and watch it become a favorite among your friends and family!
Print
Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert combining rich chocolate cake with cherry filling and a creamy pudding layer for a moist and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries, pitted and chopped)
- 1/4 cup cherry juice (optional)
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk (can use almond or oat milk)
- 1 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- In a medium bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with cherry juice (if using). Pour the cherry filling evenly over the poked cake.
- In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes. Spread the pudding layer over the cherry filling.
- Spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
For a richer chocolate flavor, add cocoa powder to the cake batter. Experiment with different pudding flavors for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
