Boston Cream Poke Cake is like a heartfelt hug in dessert form. Imagine moist cake soaked with rich chocolate and creamy vanilla filling, making every bite an indulgent celebration. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that will make you weak in the knees.
This delightful dessert evokes memories of birthday parties and family gatherings where laughter mingled with the sweet scent of baking. It’s the kind of treat that transforms ordinary moments into cherished memories, perfect for any occasion from casual get-togethers to festive feasts.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Boston Cream Poke Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy bakers
- The luscious chocolate ganache adds a rich flavor that everyone will adore
- Its stunning layers create a visual masterpiece, impressing guests without any fuss
- Enjoy it at birthdays, potlucks, or just because you deserve a treat
I remember the first time I made this cake; my friends devoured it in minutes and demanded an encore.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Yellow Cake Mix: Use your favorite brand for convenience and quick preparation; homemade works too if you’re feeling adventurous.
Eggs: Fresh eggs enhance the texture of the cake; choose large eggs for best results.
Milk: Whole milk gives the cake a rich flavor; feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk if desired.
Vanilla Pudding Mix: Instant pudding mix creates a silky filling that elevates the cake’s decadence.
Heavy Cream: Essential for making the ganache smooth and luscious; don’t skimp on quality here.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a perfect balance of sweetness for the ganache; dark chocolate lovers can substitute here too.
Powdered Sugar: A sprinkle on top adds just the right touch of sweetness and elegance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Cake Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with nonstick spray or butter, ensuring an easy release later.
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, and milk according to package directions. Whisk until smooth and creamy—this should look like sunshine in a bowl.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Poke Holes Galore.: Once baked, remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then use a fork to poke holes all over the cake—don’t be shy. This step allows all that delicious filling to seep in.
Create Your Pudding Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk until thickened. Spread this heavenly mixture generously over your poked cake.
Make Your Ganache Topping: In a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Stir constantly until glossy—your taste buds will thank you.
Add the Finishing Touches: Pour the ganache over the cooled cake and let it set in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing. Top with powdered sugar just before serving for that Instagram-worthy finish.
Enjoy this Boston Cream Poke Cake as it steals hearts one slice at a time.
You Must Know
- This Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and creamy vanilla
- It’s not just a dessert; it’s a fun activity for family gatherings or casual get-togethers
- Enjoy the delightful aroma as you bake, which will have everyone asking what’s cooking
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, bake the cake first, then poke holes while it’s warm, and finally pour in the pudding mixture to soak up that creamy goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the chocolate frosting for caramel or add a sprinkle of nuts on top for texture. A dash of espresso in the pudding can also elevate flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If desired, enjoy chilled or let it sit out for a few minutes before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an extra moist cake, use whole milk instead of water when making the cake mix
- Always poke holes while the cake is still warm for better absorption of flavors
- Consider refrigerating overnight; it allows flavors to meld beautifully
I remember the first time I made this Boston Cream Poke Cake; my friends devoured it in minutes. The compliments flowed like the chocolate sauce on top—definitely a crowd-pleaser.
FAQ
How long does Boston Cream Poke Cake last?
This cake lasts about five days when stored properly in the fridge.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better if prepared a day in advance to let flavors develop.
What should I serve with Boston Cream Poke Cake?
Pair it with fresh berries or vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Boston Cream Poke Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 12 slices 1x
Description
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delectable dessert that combines moist yellow cake soaked in velvety chocolate ganache with a creamy vanilla pudding filling. Perfect for any occasion, this cake transforms simple gatherings into memorable celebrations. Its rich layers and irresistible flavor make it a surefire hit, pleasing both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 2 cups cold milk (for pudding)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix yellow cake mix, eggs, and 1 cup milk according to package directions until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown; use a toothpick to check doneness.
- Once cooled slightly, poke holes all over the cake with a fork.
- In another bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and 2 cups cold milk until thickened, then spread over the cake.
- For the ganache, heat heavy cream and chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat until melted and smooth. Pour over the topped cake.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving; dust with powdered sugar just before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For extra moisture, substitute whole milk instead of water in your cake mix. Allowing the cake to chill overnight enhances flavor fusion. Try adding a sprinkle of nuts or using caramel sauce as an alternative frosting.