Butterfinger Poke Cake

What you’ll need

Here’s a quick rundown of the key ingredients you’ll need to make this cake a reality:

1 box yellow cake mix (any brand will do)
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (choose your favorite)
1 can sweetened condensed milk (this is what adds the creamy richness)
1 cup chocolate syrup (for that extra chocolatey flavor)
1 cup whipped topping (for the fluffy finish)
1 cup Butterfinger candy bars, chopped (for the signature crunch)

Feel free to experiment with alternatives! For a lower-calorie version, you can use reduced-fat whipped topping and a sugar-free cake mix.

Step-by-step instructions

Here’s how to prepare your Butterfinger Poke Cake:

Bake the cake: Prepare your yellow cake mix according to the package instructions, then pour the batter into a 9×13 inch pan. Bake until golden brown.
Cool down: Once baked, allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before poking holes across the top with a wooden spoon.
Add the filling: In a small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture over your poked cake, making sure it seeps into all those holes.
Drizzle chocolate: Next, liberally drizzle chocolate syrup over the surface of the cake.
Top it off: Spread whipped topping evenly across the cake, covering it completely.
Add the crunch: Sprinkle the chopped Butterfinger candy bars over the whipped topping to finish.
Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to let all those flavors meld beautifully.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving Butterfinger Poke Cake can be as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this treat:

Plate beautifully: Serve slices on your favorite dessert plates, garnished with extra chopped Butterfinger or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for visual appeal.
Pair with coffee: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or iced chocolate milk, making it a perfect afternoon snack or post-dinner treat.
Celebrate with it! It’s great for birthday parties or potlucks, where you can proudly showcase your culinary skills.

Storage and reheating tips

If you have any leftovers (though they might not last long), here’s how to keep your Butterfinger Poke Cake fresh:

Refrigerate: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Unfrosted cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly and when you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before adding toppings.
Avoid contamination: Always use a clean serving utensil when taking out slices to prevent any cross-contamination.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pro tips to ensure your Butterfinger Poke Cake comes out perfectly every time:

Cool completely: Let the cake cool completely before poking holes to ensure that the filling doesn’t leak out too fast.
Use creamy peanut butter: This will blend seamlessly with the sweetened condensed milk, creating a luscious filling.
Experiment with flavors: Try adding a layer of crushed Oreos or a different candy bar on top to give this cake your personal touch!

Creative twists

Feel like mixing it up? Here are some fun variations to try with your Butterfinger Poke Cake:

Nutty addition: Add chopped nuts along with the Butterfinger topping for an extra crunch!
Peanut butter chocolate fudge: Instead of chocolate syrup, drizzle a warm peanut butter fudge sauce for richer flavor.
Different cake base: Swap out yellow cake for chocolate or even red velvet for a unique take.

FAQs

Q: How long should I let the cake chill before serving?
A: It’s best to refrigerate the Butterfinger Poke Cake for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.