Name: Chocolate Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water); 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 (12.8-ounce) jar hot fudge sauce; 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed; 1 cup chocolate chips (mini or regular)

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Poke CakeRecipe

This cake is ultra moist and chocolatey — perfect for celebrations or anytime you crave a rich dessert. It’s simple to prepare using a cake mix, yet feels homemade with the silky ganache filling and luscious frosting. The poke method ensures every bite is extra flavorful and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate Cake

1 (15.25‑ounce) box chocolate cake mix (plus the oil, eggs, and water called for on the box)
1 (14‑ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup semi‑sweet chocolate chips

Frosting

3/4 cup butter, room temperature
3/4 cup cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons milk

Optional garnish: mini chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13‑inch baking pan.

Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package directions and pour it into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.

Use the back of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the cake, about halfway through the cake.

In a small saucepan or microwave‑safe bowl, melt the semi‑sweet chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk, stirring until smooth. Pour this ganache over the cake, letting it fill the holes.

For the frosting, beat the butter and cocoa powder together, gradually add the powdered sugar, and mix in the milk until smooth and creamy.

Spread the frosting over the cake and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: About 12
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Cook time: ~30 minutes
Total time: ~45 minutes

Variations

White Chocolate Version: Swap the semi‑sweet chips for white chocolate chips and drizzle with white chocolate ganache.

Mint Chocolate: Add a touch of peppermint extract to the frosting and garnish with crushed peppermint candies.

Nutty Crunch: Stir chopped toasted nuts into the frosting or sprinkle on top.

Fruit Twist: Serve with fresh raspberries or strawberries to balance the richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate it but bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Reheating isn’t necessary — just serve as is or with a scoop of ice cream.

FAQs

How long will this poke cake stay fresh?

Stored airtight at room temperature, the cake stays fresh for up to 3 days. If your home is warm, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes — you can bake the cake the day before, poke and add the ganache and frosting on the day you plan to serve.

Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?

Absolutely — any moist chocolate cake recipe works; just bake it in a 9×13 pan.

What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

You could slightly warm heavy cream with chocolate chips to make a ganache, though it won’t be quite as sweet.

Can I freeze this cake?

It’s best not to freeze the fully frosted cake. Instead freeze the plain baked cake and add ganache and frosting after thawing.

Why do we poke holes in the cake?

Poking holes allows the ganache to seep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.

Can I make this dairy‑free?

Yes — use dairy‑free chocolate chips, condensed coconut milk, and a dairy‑free frosting alternative.

What pan size should I use?

A standard 9×13‑inch baking pan is perfect for this recipe.

Can I add instant pudding to this poke cake?

While not traditional for this version, some poke cake variations use instant pudding poured over the cake after poking.

Is this cake suitable for parties?

Yes — its rich chocolate flavor and ease of cutting into squares make it ideal for gatherings.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Poke Cake is a show‑stopping yet simple dessert perfect for chocolate lovers of all skill levels. With rich ganache soaked into every bite and a creamy frosting finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser for birthdays, potlucks, or anytime you crave an indulgent treat. Enjoy the deep chocolate flavor and moist texture that make this cake unforgettable.