Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake

Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the rich combination of chocolate and peanut butter. With its decadent layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and gooey sweetened condensed milk, this cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Finished off with a layer of whipped topping and crunchy peanuts, it’s a guaranteed hit at your next gathering or special celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 jar hot fudge sauce
• 1 container whipped topping
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts

Directions

1. Prepare and bake the chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Allow the cake to cool slightly after baking.
2. Once the cake is done, use the end of a wooden spoon or a similar utensil to poke holes all over the cake, making sure to create deep holes but not tear the cake apart.
3. Microwave the peanut butter for about 30 seconds to soften it and make it easier to pour. Drizzle the melted peanut butter over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
4. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and saturate the cake.
5. Heat the hot fudge sauce in the microwave until warmed and pour it generously over the cake.
6. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up.
7. Once chilled, spread whipped topping evenly over the cake and sprinkle with chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes cooling and refrigeration)

Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.
• Nut-Free: Omit the chopped peanuts on top and replace the peanut butter with sunbutter or almond butter if you prefer a nut-free version.
• Extra Fudge: For an even more decadent dessert, drizzle extra hot fudge sauce on top of the whipped topping before serving.
• Flavored Whipped Topping: Add a bit of peanut butter to the whipped topping to enhance the peanut butter flavor throughout the cake.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cake will remain moist and flavorful as it sits.
• Freezing: Although this cake is best served fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this cake, as it is best served cold with its chilled layers.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this cake with a homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix? Yes, you can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe in place of the box mix. Just be sure to poke holes in the cake after it’s baked and follow the same topping instructions.
2. What can I use if I don’t have whipped topping? You can use homemade whipped cream as a substitute for the store-bought whipped topping. Just whip heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form.
3. Can I make this cake a day in advance? Yes, making it a day ahead is a great idea. The flavors will have more time to develop, and the cake will be even more moist and flavorful.
4. Can I substitute the peanut butter for something else? You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunbutter (for a nut-free version) instead of peanut butter if desired.
5. Can I use a different type of cake mix? While the chocolate flavor complements the peanut butter filling best, you could use any flavor of cake mix, such as vanilla or red velvet, for a different twist.
6. How do I prevent the cake from being too soggy? Be sure not to over-pour the condensed milk or hot fudge sauce. The cake should absorb the liquids, but not become too soggy. Allowing the cake to set in the refrigerator will help it firm up.
7. Can I use a different topping instead of whipped topping? Yes, you can top the cake with frosting, cream cheese frosting, or a layer of peanut butter mousse for a richer topping.
8. How do I make the holes in the cake evenly spaced? For even spacing, make 3-4 rows of holes, each about 1 inch apart. The holes should be deep enough to allow the fillings to soak into the cake but not go all the way through.
9. Can I use light versions of the ingredients? While you can use lighter versions of the cake mix, peanut butter, and whipped topping, the texture and richness of the cake may not be the same as when using the full-fat versions.
10. What other mix-ins can I add to the cake? You could add chocolate chips, chopped Reese’s cups, or toffee bits to the cake batter before baking for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is the perfect dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. The combination of moist chocolate cake, gooey peanut butter, and decadent layers of sweetened condensed milk and hot fudge makes for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving it at a party, holiday gathering, or simply as a family dessert, this cake is sure to be a hit. With easy preparation and endless variations, it’s a dessert everyone will love!

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