Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake is like a party in your mouth where every bite feels like a celebration. Imagine a soft, fluffy vanilla cake soaking up luscious layers of rich custard and decadent chocolate ganache. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you weak in the knees while simultaneously sending your taste buds on a magical journey through sweetness and creaminess. This isn’t just any cake; it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that even your most discerning relatives will rave about during family gatherings.
Let me take you back to my first attempt at making this glorious dessert. I was armed with nothing but determination and a questionable amount of confidence. Spoiler alert: it turned out fantastic! Friends and family were showering me with compliments like confetti at a wedding, and I couldn’t help but bask in the glory of my culinary achievement. Perfect for birthdays or just an ordinary Tuesday when you want to feel extraordinary, this Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake is sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make poke cake requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor!
- Its combination of textures—from moist cake to creamy filling—makes each bite unforgettable.
- The stunning presentation with chocolate ganache drizzled on top will have your guests oohing and aahing.
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion or as an everyday treat!
I remember making this for my cousin’s birthday party, and everyone rushed to grab seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Vanilla Cake Mix: Choose your favorite brand for convenience; it sets the foundation for this poke cake masterpiece.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for adding moisture and richness to the cake.
- Milk: Whole milk works best here, providing that creamy texture we all love.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This will create that luscious filling—just don’t skip it!
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Using heavy cream ensures your ganache has that perfect silky finish.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: For the ganache, these chips melt beautifully into a rich topping.
- Powdered Sugar: A little sweetness helps balance the flavors in your whipped cream topping.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and prepare the vanilla cake mix according to package instructions using eggs and milk.
Poke It Up!: Once baked and cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Aim for about 20 holes—you want it well-poked!
Create Custard Bliss: Prepare instant vanilla pudding mix according to package directions. Pour it evenly over the poked cake, ensuring every hole gets filled with that creamy goodness.
Make the Ganache: In a saucepan over low heat, melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with heavy whipping cream until smooth. Stir continuously until glossy—this is where magic happens!
Add Whipped Topping: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread it generously over your beautiful pudding-filled creation.
Chill Out!: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if you can wait! This allows all those flavors to mingle together beautifully.
Now you’re ready to slice into this beauty! You’ve transformed simple ingredients into something truly sensational—a showstopper worthy of any celebration!
Serve up slices of happiness topped with extra ganache if you dare (and trust me, you should dare). Enjoy every bite of your homemade Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake—because you deserve a slice of happiness today!
You Must Know
- This Boston cream pie poke cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert.
- The combination of moist cake, creamy filling, and rich chocolate glaze creates a heavenly treat that will impress your guests.
- Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake until golden brown, then cool it before poking holes for filling. This sequence ensures your cake remains fluffy while allowing time for flavors to meld.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up flavors by using different pudding mixes like vanilla or caramel. You can also add fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor or even whipped cream on top.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Boston cream pie poke cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To enjoy later, simply slice and microwave briefly until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing results; they incorporate air more effectively into the batter.
- Be cautious not to overbake; check the cake five minutes before the timer goes off to prevent dryness.
- Letting it cool completely helps the filling set properly without running out.
I remember bringing this poke cake to a potluck, where its luscious layers disappeared faster than I could say “Boston cream.” It’s become my go-to dessert, always bringing smiles and requests for seconds!
FAQ
What is Boston cream pie poke cake?
Boston cream pie poke cake is a moist vanilla cake filled with creamy custard and topped with chocolate glaze.
Can I use different flavors of pudding?
Absolutely! Vanilla or butterscotch pudding can add delicious twists to this poke cake.
How long does this cake last in the refrigerator?
The Boston cream pie poke cake stays fresh in the fridge for about five days if stored correctly.
Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake
Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, featuring moist vanilla cake, creamy custard, and rich chocolate ganache that will impress at any gathering.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to package instructions using eggs and milk; then pour into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake, aiming for about 20 holes.
- Prepare the instant vanilla pudding according to package directions and pour it evenly over the poked cake.
- In a saucepan, melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with heavy whipping cream over low heat until smooth, stirring continuously.
- Spread whipped heavy cream mixed with powdered sugar over the chilled cake after it has been in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- Experiment with different pudding flavors like butterscotch or chocolate for added variety.
- Add fresh berries on top for extra flavor and garnish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (118g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
