Hot Chocolate Poke Cake

Name: Hot Chocolate Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 can sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup hot chocolate mix; 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1 cup whipped cream; Chocolate shavings; Mini marshmallows for garnish

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this Hot Chocolate Poke Cake. It's moist, rich, and bursting with chocolate flavor, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T19:46:35.858Z

This Hot Chocolate Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it's a comforting hug in cake form. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, this cake combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a delightful poke of marshmallow cream. Serve it warm or chilled, and watch it disappear!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Chocolate Escape

If you're a chocolate lover, this Hot Chocolate Poke Cake is your dream come true. Each bite offers a rich, decadent flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. The combination of a moist chocolate cake with a creamy hot chocolate filling creates a delightful texture that keeps you reaching for more. Whether it's a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this cake is sure to be the star of the dessert table.

What sets this poke cake apart is the way it captures the essence of hot chocolate in every slice. The addition of sweetened condensed milk and hot chocolate mix provides a luscious filling that seeps into the cake, ensuring that every bite is infused with chocolatey goodness. Plus, topping it off with whipped cream and mini marshmallows adds a fun, whimsical touch that makes it even more appealing.

A Cake for Every Occasion

This Hot Chocolate Poke Cake is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Birthdays, holidays, or simply a weekend treat—this cake fits the bill beautifully. It’s easy to prepare, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family. The vibrant chocolate flavor, paired with light whipped cream and marshmallows, is a surefire way to impress your guests.

Don’t be surprised if this cake becomes your go-to recipe for gatherings. Its eye-catching presentation and delightful taste make it a favorite among adults and kids alike. You can even customize it to suit different themes or seasons by incorporating flavored extracts or garnishes to enhance its appeal.

Tips for the Best Poke Cake

To ensure your Hot Chocolate Poke Cake turns out perfectly, remember to follow the instructions closely. Allowing the cake to cool adequately before poking holes is crucial, as it prevents the filling from leaking too quickly. Additionally, using a wooden spoon handle to poke the holes ensures they are the right size for maximum filling absorption, creating a moist and flavorful result.

Feel free to experiment with the toppings! While whipped cream and mini marshmallows are classic choices, you could also add crushed peppermint for a festive twist, or drizzle caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness. The possibilities are endless, and personalizing the cake can make it even more special for your celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

For the Poke Filling

1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup hot chocolate mix
1 cup mini marshmallows

For the Topping

1 cup whipped cream
Chocolate shavings
Mini marshmallows for garnish

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting the recipe for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.

Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes.

Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with the hot chocolate mix until smooth. Pour this mixture over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.

Add Marshmallows

Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top of the cake, and let it sit for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Top and Serve

Spread whipped cream over the top of the cake, garnish with chocolate shavings and extra marshmallows. Slice and serve!

Enjoy your delicious Hot Chocolate Poke Cake with friends and family!

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Hot Chocolate Poke Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its moist texture and rich flavor. It can last for up to 3-4 days, although it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal taste.

If you want to prepare the cake ahead of time, you can bake and poke the cake, then cover it with the filling and toppings just before serving. This ensures that the cake remains fluffy and the toppings stay fresh, providing the best experience for you and your guests.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra special touch, consider pairing your Hot Chocolate Poke Cake with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, rich cake, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

You can also serve the cake with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for added richness. A sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the flavors even further, creating a delightful balance between sweet and salty. These simple additions can take your cake from delicious to extraordinary!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavored cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake mix with vanilla or red velvet for a different twist!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and add the toppings just before serving.

→ What is the best way to reheat the cake?

To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm.