Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. Moist chocolate cake is filled with a creamy peanut butter filling and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache and crumbled peanut butter cups. It’s indulgent, rich, and perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.
• Easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for special occasions.
• Perfectly moist and creamy texture in every bite.
• Crowd-pleaser dessert that will wow friends and family.
• Customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

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

• Chocolate cake mix (and ingredients needed to prepare it)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Creamy peanut butter
• Heavy cream
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Mini peanut butter cups, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake: Bake the chocolate cake according to the package instructions in a 9×13-inch pan. Allow the cake to cool slightly.
2. Poke the Cake: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the cake.
3. Make the Filling: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter. Heat until smooth and pourable, then stir well.
4. Fill the Cake: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
5. Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
6. Top the Cake: Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups on top.
7. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and nut-free chocolate candies for topping.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or toffee bits over the ganache for added texture.
• Flavor Twist: Add a layer of caramel sauce before the ganache for a chocolate-peanut butter-caramel combo.
• Different Toppings: Use chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, or sprinkles for a fun variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: This cake is best served cold, but if you prefer it warm, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?

Absolutely! A homemade chocolate cake will work perfectly in this recipe.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

4. What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

You can make your own by simmering whole milk and sugar until thickened, or use evaporated milk with added sugar.

5. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Yes, dark chocolate will provide a deeper, richer flavor.

6. Can I substitute chunky peanut butter for creamy?

Yes, but keep in mind that the texture of the filling will be slightly different.

7. How do I prevent the ganache from being too runny?

Make sure the cream is not too hot and let the ganache cool slightly before spreading it on the cake.

8. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

9. What other candies can I use for topping?

Chopped Snickers, Reese’s Pieces, or M&M’s make excellent alternatives.

10. How long should I let the cake chill before serving?

For best results, chill the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the ganache to set.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a decadent treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this dessert is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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