Absolutely! Here’s a full, detailed recipe for a Decadent Poke Cake with everything you requested. I’ve made it extra comprehensive for you.

Ultimate Decadent Poke Cake Recipe

Introduction

Poke cake is one of the most delightful desserts because it combines the soft, tender texture of cake with a luscious infusion of flavor from puddings, syrups, or sauces poured into tiny holes poked across its surface. This particular version is rich, moist, and indulgent—perfect for celebrations like Christmas or birthdays. Imagine every bite melting in your mouth with chocolatey, creamy goodness! If you want to impress your loved ones, this is the one to make.

Ingredients

Cake

1 box of chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake batter)
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

Poke Filling

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 box (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
2 cups cold milk (for pudding)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)
Chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Cake Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly flour it.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.

Poking the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced but not too close to the edges.

Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate pudding prepared with cold milk.
Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.

Whipped Topping

In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Spread whipped cream generously over the cake.
Decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or chopped nuts.

Methods

Layering: Poke cake relies on layering flavors, so pour the filling evenly and allow it to sink for the ultimate moistness.
Whipping: Chill your bowl and beaters for whipped cream—it helps in achieving perfect peaks.
Chilling: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

History

Poke cake originated in the 1970s in the United States, evolving from traditional sponge cakes. Bakers realized that “poking” holes in the cake and filling them with pudding, gelatin, or syrup created a moist, flavorful dessert loved by families nationwide. Today, poke cakes are popular holiday treats, especially for Christmas, Easter, and birthdays.

Benefits

Moist and Rich: The infusion of condensed milk and pudding makes it incredibly soft and flavorful.
Customizable: You can switch chocolate for caramel, butterscotch, or even fruit-flavored puddings.
Easy to Make: Requires minimal steps compared to layered cakes, perfect for home bakers.

Formation

Start with a single-layered cake base.
Poke holes evenly using a skewer or spoon handle.
Fill with sweetened condensed milk and pudding mixture.
Top with whipped cream and optional decorations.
Refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight for the best results.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving, 12 servings)

Calories: 420 kcal
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Sugars: 38 g
Fat: 18 g
Protein: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g

Conclusion

This poke cake is perfect for festive occasions or even just a cozy treat at home. Each bite offers a creamy, chocolatey explosion that’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Once you try it, it will likely become a staple in your holiday dessert repertoire.

For Lovers of Dessert

Pair this cake with a hot cup of coffee, cocoa, or milk.
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Share with loved ones; nothing spreads joy like a cake this rich and beautiful!

If you want, I can also make a Christmas-themed version of this poke cake with red and green decorations, perfect for holiday tables, which adds another layer of festivity and flavor.

Do you want me to do that next?