Directions to follow
Bake the cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix according to the package’s instructions. Pour the batter into a greased rectangular pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for about 5–10 minutes.
Poke holes: Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the surface.
Pour the caramel: In a bowl, mix the caramel sauce with the sweetened condensed milk, if using. Slowly drizzle it over the cake, allowing the mixture to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool to room temperature, then chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks.
Cover the top: Once the cake has chilled, spread the whipped cream over the top using a spatula. Sprinkle the Heath Bar pieces generously over the cream.
Serve: Chill in the refrigerator again for at least 2–3 hours. Slice up your cake and serve for a delightful dessert experience.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this Caramel Heath Bar Poke Cake is an art in itself! You can cut it into squares and place them on a decorative dessert platter, or serve slices in individual bowls with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for that added allure. Pair it with coffee or a sweet tea for contrast, or perhaps a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a team-up of classic flavors.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To maintain the scrumptiousness of your Caramel Heath Bar Poke Cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay good for up to 4 days. If you wish to freeze leftovers, slice the cake first, wrap individual pieces tightly in cling film, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to consume frozen leftovers within a month for the best taste and quality.
Helpful cooking tips
- Consider making a homemade caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence!
- For added flavor, try folding in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the whipped cream.
- Let the cake chill overnight for an even richer flavor as the caramel seeps in more deeply.
Creative twists
Feel free to explore different variations with this poke cake. Swap Heath Bar pieces for crushed Oreos or M&M’s for a candy-land twist. You could also experiment with flavored whipped creams, such as mint or chocolate, for a seasonal kick. For those with dietary needs, look into gluten-free cake mixes or dairy-free cream alternatives for a delicious, inclusive dessert.
Your questions answered
How long does this cake take to make?
From start to finish, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, including baking and chilling time before serving.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making a day in advance; just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping if you prefer a dairy-free option.
What’s the best way to cut the cake?
Use a sharp, serrated knife and cut straight down to avoid squishing the layers. A gentle sawing motion can help keep everything intact!
