Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert with layers of chocolate cake, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a decadent chocolate frosting. The "poke" technique ensures that the peanut butter filling seeps into the cake for a moist, gooey texture, making this cake a real crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake recipe)
• Ingredients called for on the cake mix box (usually water, oil, and eggs)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk (if needed to adjust the consistency)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For Garnish (optional):

• Mini chocolate chips or chopped peanuts (optional)
• Extra peanut butter drizzle (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box (usually with water, oil, and eggs) and stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

1. While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake, making sure not to poke through the bottom.
2. Let the cake cool slightly while you prepare the peanut butter filling.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. If the filling is too thick, add a little milk to reach a pourable consistency.
3. Pour the peanut butter filling over the warm cake, spreading it into the holes so that it seeps into the cake. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and stir until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk if you want a thinner or thicker consistency.
3. Let the frosting cool slightly before spreading it over the top of the cooled cake.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
2. For extra texture and flavor, garnish with mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or drizzle extra peanut butter over the top.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the cake set for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to firm up before serving.
2. Slice into squares and enjoy this rich, decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake!

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Tips for the Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake

• Make it ahead: This cake can be made a day ahead of time and refrigerated to let the flavors meld together.
• Texture variation: For an extra creamy peanut butter filling, you can mix in cream cheese or a little whipped cream.
• Cake alternatives: If you don’t have a boxed cake mix, you can use a homemade chocolate cake recipe or even use brownies for a thicker, fudgier cake base.

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Storage

• Room temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake (without frosting) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

Enjoy your Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake – a rich, indulgent treat perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers! 🍫🥜🍰