Directions to Follow
Let’s walk through the steps together for this dreamy cake:
- Preheat your oven as per the cake mix package instructions. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly.
- Bake the yellow cake following the directions on the box. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes once it’s done.
- Using a wooden spoon handle or a skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, letting it fill the holes generously.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the cake, encouraging it to seep into the holes further.
- In a medium bowl, whip together the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream mixture evenly over the entire cake, fully covering it.
- Top with the chopped Butterfinger candy bars and optional chopped peanuts for that extra crunch.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This lets the flavors meld beautifully and the cake to set—definitely a plan worth following!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Once your Butterfinger Poke Cake is ready, serve it chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat. You might want to accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle a little extra caramel sauce on the plate for added elegance. Fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, also pairs nicely, adding a pop of color and flavor contrast.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your Butterfinger Poke Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This delicious dessert can last up to five days in the fridge. If you don’t plan to finish it within that time frame, you can also freeze individual slices. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For the best cake texture, make sure not to over-mix the batter when preparing the cake mix. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
- If you want to reduce sweetness, you can substitute half the sweetened condensed milk with plain yogurt or even a bit of cream cheese for added tang.
- Feel free to use different candy bars like Snickers or Milky Way for a fun variation!
Creative Twists
Looking to mix things up? Try adding a layer of chocolate pudding beneath the whipped cream for an extra layer of richness. You could also incorporate toasted coconut or crushed Oreos on top for a crunchy contrast. For a salted version, sprinkle a little sea salt on the caramel sauce before chilling.
Common Questions
How long does it take to make Butterfinger Poke Cake?
Prep time is about 30 minutes, plus a chilling time of at least 4 hours or overnight.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect option for parties.
What if I can’t find Butterfinger bars?
You can easily substitute with any crispy candy bar of your choice, like Reese’s or Milky Way, for a deliciously different take.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix in place of the standard mix to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
