Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake according to the package instructions, usually about 30–35 minutes.
- Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes after baking.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cooled cake.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and hot fudge sauce. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely, then spread whipped topping over the whole cake.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy your delicious holiday treat!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving your Christmas Poke Cake, there are endless possibilities! Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra hot fudge for an indulgent experience. You can also serve it alongside a warm cup of cocoa or coffee, making for a perfect holiday dessert after a festive meal.
How to store
To keep your Christmas Poke Cake fresh, simply cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3–5 days. If you wish to prolong its freshness, you can freeze individual slices. Just be sure to wrap each piece in plastic wrap tightly, followed by aluminum foil for added protection.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Christmas Poke Cake turns out beautifully:
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake batter.
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before poking holes; this will prevent the fudge mixture from leaking out.
- To make it even more festive, garnish with whipped cream dollops or additional holiday-themed sprinkles.
Creative twists
Why not switch things up a bit? Here are a few creative variations to consider:
- Use white cake mix paired with a peppermint-flavored fudge sauce for a refreshing twist.
- Add some toasted nuts or chopped chocolate on top for extra crunch.
- Experiment with different flavors of topping, such as lemon or berry-flavored whipped cream, to bring a unique twist to this classic dessert.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Christmas Poke Cake?
From start to finish, including baking time and cooling, plan for about 2 hours. However, the active preparation time is only about 30 minutes!
Can I use other types of cake mix?
Absolutely! While chocolate adds a decadent flavor, feel free to explore other cake mixes, such as vanilla or red velvet, for a different take on this recipe.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients, like condiments and toppings, are gluten-free as well.
Is it safe to store leftovers?
Yes! Just ensure you refrigerate the cake properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.
