Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake Recipe

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate chocolate and peanut butter experience with the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake. This dessert takes a classic chocolate cake and transforms it by poking holes into it and filling those pockets with sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and hot fudge, creating a rich, moist, and decadent treat that’s bursting with flavor. Topped with fluffy whipped topping and sprinkled generously with chopped mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, this cake is the perfect combination of creamy, chocolatey, and nutty goodness that will have you reaching for seconds before you even finish your first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential in crafting the perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the moist texture, creamy filling, and unmistakable peanut butter-chocolate harmony you crave.

• Chocolate cake mix: The foundation of our cake, ensuring a rich and moist chocolate base that everyone loves.
• Eggs, oil, and water: Standard cake mix essentials that come together to give the cake its perfect crumb and texture.
• Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Poured into the holes to soak into the cake, adding luscious moisture and creamy sweetness.
• Peanut butter (1/2 cup): Blended into the filling for that classic Reese’s flavor, creamy and nutty.
• Hot fudge sauce (1/2 cup): Adds gooey chocolate richness that melts into the cake’s crevices for extra decadence.
• Whipped topping (8 oz tub): Light and fluffy, it balances out the richness with airy texture on top.
• Chopped mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (1 cup): The final crunchy, chocolate-peanut butter touch sprinkled over the whipped topping for the perfect finish.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

Start by preparing your chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, using eggs, oil, and water as directed. Pour the batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as instructed. Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes—warm enough to soak up the filling but not too hot to handle.

Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar tool, poke evenly spaced holes all over the cake while it’s still warm. These holes will act like little reservoirs to soak up the sweetened condensed milk mixture, making the cake irresistibly moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk Over Cake

Slowly pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top, allowing it to seep naturally into every hole. The condensed milk will infuse the cake with a rich, creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

Step 4: Prepare and Add Peanut Butter and Hot Fudge Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and hot fudge sauce together until smooth and well combined. Dollop spoonfuls of this mixture over the entire top of the cake. The chocolate from the fudge and the nutty peanut butter will swirl into the cake for an irresistible flavor punch.

Step 5: Chill the Cake

Cover your cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the cake is perfectly set and ready for the next step.

Step 6: Add Whipped Topping and Reese’s Cups

Once chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface of the cake, creating a smooth, creamy layer. Finally, sprinkle the chopped mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups all over the top, adding texture, color, and that signature peanut butter chocolate crunch.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake

Garnishes

For an extra touch of decadence, consider adding a drizzle of warm hot fudge sauce or a few whole Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on the side. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a dusting of cocoa powder can also enhance the presentation and flavor contrast beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake is a dessert star on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream can elevate the experience. A cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee also complements the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try serving the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake in clear individual cups as poke cake parfaits by layering cake pieces, filling, and toppings. You can also cut it into bite-sized squares and garnish each piece with a mini peanut butter cup for an elegant finger food version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, retaining its moistness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake for longer storage by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Since this cake is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. If you desire a slightly softer texture, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving instead.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Homemade chocolate cake works wonderfully in this recipe and can add a personal touch. Just ensure it’s baked in a 9×13-inch pan and cooled slightly before poking holes.

What if I don’t have hot fudge sauce?

You can substitute hot fudge with melted chocolate chips or chocolate syrup. Both will add that rich chocolate flavor, though the consistency might differ slightly.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix will make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Is there a way to make this cake less sweet?

You can reduce the sugar content by choosing a low-sugar or sugar-free hot fudge sauce and using a peanut butter without added sugar. Just keep in mind it will slightly alter the classic Reese’s taste.

How can I make this cake more peanut butter intense?

Try swirling in an extra 1/4 cup of peanut butter into the filling mixture or sprinkling a bit of peanut butter powder on top along with the chopped Reese’s cups for an extra peanut punch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the nostalgic joy of Reese’s with the irresistible comfort of chocolate cake, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake is your dream come true. It’s easy to make, endlessly delicious, and perfect for sharing at any occasion. So grab your ingredients, invite your favorite people, and get ready to fall in love bite after bite.

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