This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a delightful treat that brings the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter together in a moist, irresistible dessert. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake features a creamy peanut butter filling that seeps into every bite. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses a boxed cake mix, making it simple and quick for bakers of all levels.
- Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate cake paired with creamy peanut butter creates an indulgent experience that is hard to resist.
- Impressive Presentation: Topped with candy, this cake looks fantastic when served at gatherings or special occasions.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it with different toppings or fillings based on your preferences.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 8 to 10 servings, it’s great for potlucks, family gatherings, or just treating friends.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that the process goes smoothly and the final result is perfect.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan: This size is ideal for even baking and easy serving of the poke cake.
- Electric mixer: It helps achieve the light and fluffy texture necessary for the frosting.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for poking holes in the cake without damaging its structure.
Ingredients
This Peanut Butter Poke Cake from Delish.com is a dream come true for peanut butter lovers.
For the Cake
- 1 box devil’s food cake, plus ingredients called for on box
- 2 c. peanut butter, melted
For the Toppings
- 1 c. chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- 1 c. Reese’s Pieces
For the Frosting
- 1 c. peanut butter
- 10 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 c. powdered sugar
- 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 2 tbsp. heavy cream
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper and grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare cake batter according to package instructions and pour into prepared pan.
- Bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, about 25 minutes.
- Let cake cool completely.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
- Using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cooled cake.
- Pour melted peanut butter over the entire cake, filling each hole.
- Set aside to let the peanut butter soak in.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, mixing until light and fluffy.
- If needed, gradually beat in heavy cream to loosen frosting consistency.
Step 4: Assemble Your Cake
- Spread frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- Top with chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Serving your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake can elevate the dessert experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful ways to enhance this rich treat.
Classic Serving Suggestions
- A la mode: Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the chocolate and peanut butter.
- Whipped cream topping: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and balances the rich flavors.
- Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over each slice for an extra touch of indulgence.
Creative Pairings
- Fresh berries: Add a side of strawberries or raspberries for a tart complement that cuts through the sweetness.
- Peanut butter sauce: Drizzle warm peanut butter sauce over each slice for an intense peanut flavor.
- Nut garnish: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or almonds on top for added crunch and texture.
Fun Presentation Ideas
- Layered dessert cups: Layer pieces of the poke cake in individual cups with whipped cream and crushed Reese’s Pieces for a fun presentation.
- Mini cakes: Bake in cupcake tins for single-serve versions, perfect for parties or gatherings.
How to Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Perfecting your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake enhances its flavor and texture. Follow these helpful tips to create a show-stopping dessert.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for even mixing and better texture.
- Poke holes evenly: Use a wooden spoon or similar tool to create evenly spaced holes so that the melted peanut butter seeps into every corner of the cake.
- Let the cake cool completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding the melted peanut butter. This prevents it from melting too much and ensures a moist texture.
- Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Try using different candies or toppings like crushed graham crackers or sprinkles for added fun.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Pairing sides with your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake can balance its richness. Here are some delicious suggestions:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and contrasts perfectly with the cake’s flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light counterpart to the dense cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, serve a small portion of rich chocolate mousse alongside each slice.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over the plate enhances sweetness without overpowering the cake’s flavor.
- Coffee or Espresso: A cup of freshly brewed coffee balances sweetness while enhancing the chocolate notes in the dessert.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on top can add texture and an interesting flavor dimension when served as a side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can lead to uneven baking. Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
- Not cooling the cake completely: If the cake is still warm when you poke holes and add the peanut butter, it may not soak in properly. Allow the cake to cool completely for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake texture. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Skipping parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can cause sticking, making it difficult to remove the cake from the pan. Always line your baking pan with parchment for easy removal.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Inaccurate measurements can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store covered in an airtight container.
- Will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake.
How do I make my Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake extra moist?
Adding a simple syrup or additional melted peanut butter on top of the cake after baking can enhance moisture.
Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, almond milk works well as a substitute in the cake batter without altering the flavor significantly.
How long will my Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake last?
When stored properly, it should last 3-5 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer.
What if I don’t have Reese’s Pieces?
You can substitute with chopped chocolate candies or even nuts for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with creamy peanut butter goodness. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings or even try different flavored cakes. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!