Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until everything is well combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Once the cake is done, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.
- Generously pour the cherry pie filling over the top of the cake and spread it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped cream over the cherry layer.
- Top with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Black Forest Poke Cake is scrumptious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience. Consider pairing it with vanilla ice cream to enhance the creamy texture and provide a temperature contrast. Fresh cherries or a scoop of whipped cream alongside each slice make a lovely presentation.
How to store
To keep your leftover Black Forest Poke Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, slice the cake first and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a sweet treat anytime you’re craving something special! Always ensure any leftovers are handled to avoid temperature abuse, keeping food safety in mind.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your cream is chilled before whipping for the best texture.
- If you’re short on time, using pre-made whipped cream can save you a few steps without sacrificing taste.
- For a fun twist, try adding a tablespoon of cherry liqueur to the cherry pie filling for an extra flavor boost.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your Black Forest Poke Cake!
- Swap the chocolate cake mix for a vanilla or red velvet base for different flavor dimensions.
- Top with fruit other than cherries, like raspberries or strawberries, for a unique spin.
- Use chocolate chips in the batter to intensify the chocolate flavor further.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this cake?
The total time is about 2.5 hours, including baking and chilling.
Can I substitute the cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! You can use fresh or frozen cherries, or even other fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry.
Is it safe to leave this cake unrefrigerated?
For food safety, it’s best to keep this cake refrigerated due to the whipped cream topping. It should not sit out for more than two hours.
Now that you have the inside scoop on making Black Forest Poke Cake, you’re all set to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delectable dessert. Happy baking!
