Directions to follow

Now, let’s get started on creating this delightful cake!

1. Preheat your oven as per the cake mix instructions. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and pour in the prepared cake batter.
2. Bake the cake according to the package directions. Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and poke holes all over using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer.
3. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the warm cake, filling the holes generously with cherries and their juice.
4. Refrigerate the cake while you prepare the pudding topping.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk. Mix for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
6. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
7. Spread this luscious pudding mixture evenly over the cherry layer on the cake.
8. For an extra touch, garnish with chocolate shavings or curls if desired.
9. Finally, refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to meld all those irresistible flavors together.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving this Black Forest Poke Cake, presentation is key! For a fun and festive touch, consider:

• Slicing the cake into squares and placing them on a decorative dessert platter.
• Drizzling extra chocolate or cherry sauce over the top for a decadent finish.
• Pairing each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of additional whipped cream on the side.

How to store & freeze

Keeping your Black Forest Poke Cake fresh is simple. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze portions of the cake. Just cover it well to avoid freezer burn, and it will stay good for about 2-3 months. Always ensure to thaw it in the fridge before serving again for the best texture.

Pro chef tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your Black Forest Poke Cake turns out perfect every time:

• For an ultra-chocolatey experience, swap the chocolate pudding mix for a dark chocolate version.
• Letting the cake cool completely before adding toppings helps prevent them from sliding off.
• Consider using fresh cherries instead of pie filling for a more natural taste, but add a touch of sugar for sweetness if necessary.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try with your Black Forest Poke Cake:

• Swap the chocolate cake mix for a rich vanilla or even a red velvet base for a twist.
• Add a splash of almond extract to the chocolate pudding mixture for a unique flavor profile.
• For a boozy kick, add a tablespoon of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling before spooning it over the cake.

Your questions answered

How long do I need to bake the cake?
Typically, baking time for the chocolate cake will be on the package instructions, usually around 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?
Absolutely! Substituting with a gluten-free cake mix will give you a deliciously similar outcome.

How long should I refrigerate the cake before serving?
For the best flavor and texture, letting it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight is ideal.

With its rich chocolate flavor and luscious cherry topping, this Black Forest Poke Cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking!