If you’re craving a rich, indulgent dessert that’s incredibly easy to make, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake delivers on every level. Moist chocolate cake, soaked with creamy peanut butter filling, then topped with fluffy whipped topping and chocolate bits — every bite melts in your mouth. This is one of those easy dessert recipes that tastes completely homemade while using simple ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for chocolate lovers, busy weeknights, parties, or anytime you want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser without complicated baking steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy, beginner-friendly dessert with no special skills required
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Ultra-moist, no-fail cake every time
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings
- Budget-friendly and feeds a crowd
- A must-make dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers
About the Ingredients
- Chocolate Cake Mix – Creates a soft, fluffy base while keeping prep quick and foolproof
- Creamy Peanut Butter – Adds richness and deep peanut flavor throughout the cake
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Sweet, thick, and perfect for soaking into the poke holes
- Whipped Topping – Lightens the dessert and balances the rich chocolate
- Mini Chocolate Chips / Reese’s Pieces – Optional but highly recommended for texture and flavor
These affordable baking ingredients make this dessert easy to customize and perfect for home bakers.
Tips & Tricks
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to create evenly sized poke holes
- Let the cake cool slightly before adding the peanut butter mixture so it absorbs properly
- Warm the peanut butter gently for smooth pouring
- Chill the cake before adding toppings for clean layers
These simple baking tips help guarantee dessert success every time.
Pro Tips
- For deeper flavor, use dark chocolate cake mix
- Chill overnight for even better texture and flavor
- Spread whipped topping with an offset spatula for a smooth finish
- Add toppings just before serving for best presentation
- Line the baking dish with parchment for easier cleanup
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the cake mix package directions. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix as instructed. Stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 15 minutes, then poke holes evenly across the surface.
- Whisk sweetened condensed milk with melted peanut butter until smooth.
- Slowly pour the mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
- Sprinkle with chocolate chips or chopped peanut butter cups. Slice and serve chilled.
This easy step-by-step recipe guarantees perfect results.
Variations
- Chocolate Caramel Poke Cake – Add caramel sauce to the filling
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free chocolate cake mix
- Extra Chocolate – Add chocolate syrup before the whipped topping
- Healthier Twist – Use light whipped topping and natural peanut butter
- Crunchy Texture – Add chopped peanuts or pretzels on top
These easy dessert twists make the recipe endlessly customizable.
How to Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Freeze individual slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving
- Best served chilled for maximum flavor
This cake is perfect for make-ahead desserts and leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely — just stabilize it with a little powdered sugar.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, for added texture.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, freeze slices individually for easy serving later.
What cake mix works best?
Devil’s food or dark chocolate cake mix gives the richest flavor.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the directions on the cake mix box. Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the cake mix as directed, then stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Mix until smooth and pour into the prepared dish. Bake as instructed, typically 30–35 minutes.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or skewer, poke holes evenly over the surface — about 1 inch apart.
- In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and melted peanut butter until smooth and pourable. Slowly pour the mixture over the cake, letting it fill all the holes. Let the cake absorb the filling completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend and the filling firm up slightly.
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake using a spatula. Make sure it covers the surface completely for a smooth layer.
- Sprinkle the top with mini chocolate chips and chopped peanut butter cups for extra flavor and crunch. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
