Death by Chocolate Poke Cake

Step-by-step instructions

Bake the Cake: Prepare and bake the chocolate cake according to the package instructions in a 9×13 inch baking pan. After it’s done, let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Poke the Holes: Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a large skewer to poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This will allow the delicious filling to seep in!
Mix the Soak: In a small bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and cooled coffee. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor.
Make the Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens, which takes about 2 minutes.
Layer the Pudding: Spread the chocolate pudding evenly over the cake. After this step, refrigerate the cake for 1 hour to allow it to set.
Add the Whipped Topping: Once the pudding has set, gently spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
Sprinkle & Drizzle: Finally, sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped pecans over the top for added texture, and drizzle with chocolate syrup just before serving for that extra chocolatey touch!

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving your Death by Chocolate Poke Cake is just as crucial as making it. For a fabulous presentation, slice the cake into squares and serve each piece on a colorful dessert plate. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to cut through the richness. Want to elevate it even more? A dollop of homemade whipped cream can really go the extra mile, giving that perfect treat a gourmet feel.

How to store & freeze

To keep your Death by Chocolate Poke Cake fresh, store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. For longer storage, you can freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer-safe bag. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying!

Helpful cooking tips

For a truly professional touch, consider these tips:

Use freshly brewed coffee for the soak, as it enhances the flavor of the chocolate.
Allow the cake to cool completely before poking holes to prevent it from breaking apart.
You can make the pudding mix a few hours ahead of time, which will save you some prep time when you’re ready to assemble the cake.

Creative twists

While this cake is a chocolate lover’s dream as is, feel free to experiment! Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or add crushed Oreos for a fun twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different flavored pudding mix, like vanilla or caramel, for an interesting layer that complements the chocolate.

FAQs

How long does it take to make?

The total time from prep to chill is about 2 hours (including baking, cooling, and chilling).

Can I substitute the coffee?

Absolutely! If you’re not a coffee drinker, you can use milk or a dairy-free alternative instead.

How do I know if my cake is safe to eat?

If stored correctly in the fridge, your poke cake will be safe for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to cover it properly to avoid contamination or drying out.