Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that beautifully marries rich, chocolatey goodness with a refreshing minty twist, look no further than this Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe. It’s a showstopper that brings together layers of moist chocolate cake, luscious chocolate filling, creamy pudding, and a cool peppermint whipped topping—all topped off with crunchy mint chocolate pieces. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this cake is pure joy in every bite and guaranteed to become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients that each play a starring role in delivering that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the rich chocolate cake base to the cool, minty whipped topping, every element contributes to a mouthwatering result.

• Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix: Provides a deeply chocolatey, moist foundation that’s easy to prepare.
• Water, eggs, and vegetable oil: The classic trio to bring the cake batter to life with the right texture.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds a sweet, creamy richness that melts into the cake through those signature poke holes.
• Hershey’s milk chocolate bars: Melted to create a smooth, indulgent chocolate mixture to soak into the cake.
• Cold whole milk: Essential for thickening the instant chocolate pudding and adding creaminess.
• Instant chocolate pudding mix: Forms the decadent pudding layer that complements the cake perfectly.
• Whipped topping: Light and fluffy, it’s the perfect base for the peppermint flavor and green tint.
• Green gel food coloring: Just a drop or two to add that minty green hue—fun and festive!
• Pure peppermint extract: Brings that unmistakable cool, refreshing mint taste.
• Finely chopped mint chocolate candy: Adds texture, mint flavor, and a lovely crunch on top.
• Chocolate syrup (optional): For an extra drizzle of rich chocolate to finish the look and flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to bake your cake to moist perfection. Meanwhile, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it generously with baking spray—this ensures your cake won’t stick and comes out beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dark chocolate fudge cake mix with water, eggs, and vegetable oil. Use a handheld mixer to blend everything until smooth and lump-free. This batter is your chocolatey canvas—pour it into the baking dish and get ready for a perfectly moist cake.

Step 3: Bake Until Perfect

Bake the cake for about 25 to 27 minutes. Use the toothpick test to make sure it’s done—when inserted, it should come out clean. Once baked, let it cool just enough to handle but still warm—this is important for the next step.

Step 4: Poke Those Signature Holes

Take the rounded end of a wooden spoon and gently poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them approximately 1 inch apart. These holes are what turn a regular cake into a sensational poke cake, allowing flavors to seep in and soak up beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with broken Hershey’s milk chocolate pieces. Microwave it for 30 seconds, stir well, then microwave an additional 15 seconds until you get a smooth, glossy chocolate sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Step 6: Soak the Cake

Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into each of the poke holes, making sure they’re fully filled. This step infuses every bite with creamy, chocolatey goodness. Allow the cake to cool completely so the mixture sets in perfectly.

Step 7: Make the Chocolate Pudding Layer

Whisk together the cold whole milk and instant chocolate pudding mix in a bowl using a handheld mixer. Whip it for about one to one and a half minutes until it thickens nicely. Then spread this luscious chocolate pudding evenly over the cooled cake for that wonderful creamy layer.

Step 8: Chill Your Cake

Pop the cake into the refrigerator and let it chill for about an hour. This helps the pudding set firmly while melding the flavors together—patience here rewards you with a perfectly set dessert.

Step 9: Prepare the Minty Whipped Topping

Mix the thawed whipped topping with a drop or two of green gel food coloring and pure peppermint extract. Stir until beautifully combined and uniformly tinted. This minty whipped layer is going to bring freshness and a festive feel to your cake.

Step 10: Finish and Decorate

Spread the green-tinted whipped topping gently over the pudding layer. Finally, sprinkle the finely chopped mint chocolate candy all over the top, adding a lovely crunch and that classic mint-chocolate flavor that completes this cake. For an extra touch, drizzle with chocolate syrup if you like.

How to Serve Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe

Garnishes

When serving your Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe, a little flourish goes a long way. Consider adding extra mint chocolate pieces or a delicate sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a few fresh mint leaves can also add an elegant and flavorful touch that invites everyone to dive in.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich and decadent, so pairing it with lighter sides like fresh berries or a simple fruit salad balances the experience beautifully. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream can also complement the cool mint flavor and enrich each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices of this cake in clear glass dessert bowls for layering visual appeal or as individual mini poke cakes in ramekins for a charming presentation. You can also cut the cake into bite-size squares, skewer them with a mint leaf garnish, and serve as delightful party bites. The possibilities are endless and so much fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, cover your Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and moist for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert to enjoy over several days without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake, but because of its creamy layers, it’s best to do so before adding the whipped topping and mint chocolate garnish. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then add your minty topping and candy for best results.

Reheating

This Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly less cold, simply remove it from the fridge a bit earlier before serving, letting it come to room temperature briefly for enhanced flavor release without melting the whipped topping.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While the mix keeps things quick and easy, a homemade chocolate cake works wonderfully too. Just make sure it’s a moist recipe, as the poke cake’s texture depends on a tender base that can absorb the filling well.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If peppermint extract isn’t on hand, you can substitute with a small amount of fresh mint leaves finely chopped or a drop of mint-flavored liqueur. Just be careful not to overpower the cake’s flavor—start small and adjust to taste.

Can I make this cake in different sizes?

Yes, while a 9×13-inch pan is recommended for perfect thickness and layering, smaller pans will work; just adjust the baking time accordingly. Keep a close eye on the toothpick test to ensure doneness.

Is there a non-dairy version of this cake?

Yes, you can use non-dairy milk and whipped topping alternatives like coconut or almond milk products. Choose a dairy-free chocolate pudding mix and check the cake mix ingredients to accommodate dietary needs without compromising taste.

How far ahead can I make the cake?

You can prepare this Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe up to two days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and add fresh mint chocolate and any garnish just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way this Chocolate Mint Poke Cake Recipe comes together, combining effortless steps with irresistible flavors. It’s a perfect treat to share with loved ones or simply enjoy as a decadent reward after a long day. Trust me, once you try it, this cake will have a permanent spot in your dessert rotation!

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