This poke cake is unapologetically rich, fudgy and layered with everything chocolate lovers dream about.
Soft chocolate cake gets drenched in creamy brownie pudding, topped with brownie-studded whipped topping and finished with hot fudge for a full-on dessert moment.
For more chocolatey goodness, try this Chocolate Loaf Cake, my Chocolate Dipped Bananas and this Gluten Free Chocolate Tart, next.
Ingredients
- Chocolate cake mix: The soft, chocolatey base that gives the cake its fluffy structure
- Eggs, oil and water (as required on box): The essential mix-ins that bring the boxed cake to life with moisture and richness
- Instant chocolate pudding mix: Creates a thick, creamy chocolate layer that soaks into the cake
- Cold milk: Helps the pudding set into a smooth, spoonable filling
- Brownie mix (heat-treated): Adds that deep, fudgy brownie batter flavor safely into every layer
- Whipped topping: Light, fluffy topping that balances the richness of the chocolate layers
- Store-bought brownie chunks (optional): Adds chewy, fudgy bites for extra texture and indulgence
- Hot fudge sauce: A glossy, rich drizzle that finishes everything with extra chocolate intensity
See recipe card for quantities
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the chocolate cake according to package instructions and bake in a 9x13-inch pan. Let it cool slightly.
- Step 2: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the cake.
- Step 3: Whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thick. Stir in heat-treated brownie mix until smooth. Spread the brownie pudding mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
- Step 4: Fold heat-treated brownie mix into whipped topping until fully combined. Spread over the cake, then add brownie chunks if using and drizzle with hot fudge. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Substitutions
- Chocolate milk instead of regular milk for deeper flavor
- Homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping
- Fudge brownie mix instead of standard brownie mix
Variations
- Peanut butter swirl with peanut butter chips or drizzle
- Cookies and cream version with crushed Oreos
- Extra chocolate overload with chocolate chips in the pudding layer
Equipment
A 9x13-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk and a wooden spoon for poking holes.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep chilled until its ready to serve.
Top tip
Don't rush the chill time; it's what transforms this from a simple cake into a fully set, sliceable, layered dessert.
FAQ
Yes; it makes the raw mix safe to eat since it isn't being baked into the cake.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Brownie Batter Poke Cake
Ingredients
- 1 13.25 oz box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
- 1 3.9 oz box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold milk
- ½ cup brownie mix microwaved for 30 seconds
- 1 tub 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- ¼ cup brownie mix microwaved for 30 seconds
- 1 cup store-bought brownie chunks optional
- ½ cup hot fudge sauce
Instructions
Bake the cake
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package directions and bake in a greased 9x13-inch pan.
- Let the cake cool slightly, then use the handle of a wooden spoon or large straw to poke holes all over the cake.
Make the brownie pudding filling
- In a bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Stir in the heat-treated brownie mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cake.
Make the brownie topping
- In a separate bowl, fold the heat-treated brownie mix into the whipped topping until evenly combined.
- Spread the brownie whipped topping evenly over the cake.
Finish
- Sprinkle the brownie chunks evenly over the top (if using).
- Drizzle the hot fudge sauce over everything.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cake to set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
All nutritional information provided is an estimate. For specific dietary needs or concerns, we recommend consulting a nutrition calculator or a qualified expert.
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