Description
This Hot Chocolate Poke Cake is a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for chocolate lovers. Moist chocolate cake is baked and then poked with holes to soak up a sweet marshmallow cream and rich hot fudge sauce. Topped with a creamy chocolate-flavored whipped topping and garnished with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, this cake captures the warmth and indulgence of a cup of hot cocoa in dessert form, making it ideal for cozy gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 (15.25 ounce) box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Marshmallow Filling
- 1 (7 ounce) jar marshmallow creme
- 2 tablespoons water
Chocolate Fudge
- 1 (11.25 ounce) jar hot fudge sauce
Whipped Topping
- 1 (8 ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 2 packets hot chocolate mix (¼ cup)
Garnish
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Follow the directions on the box to prepare the chocolate cake batter and bake it in a 9×13 inch pan. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature to prevent melting of fillings.
- Poke the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or the thick end of a chopstick, poke holes about 1 inch apart all across the surface of the cooled cake. These holes allow the fillings to seep into the cake for added moisture and flavor.
- Make Marshmallow Mixture: Combine the marshmallow creme and water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 20 seconds and stir until smooth and pourable. If still too thick, microwave an additional 10 seconds and mix again until pourable.
- Add Marshmallow Filling: Pour the marshmallow mixture evenly over the cake, using a rubber spatula or back of a spoon to spread it and gently press it into the holes for maximum absorption.
- Warm and Add Fudge Sauce: Heat the hot fudge sauce following the jar’s instructions until warm and pourable. Spread the warm fudge sauce evenly over the marshmallow-coated cake. Let the fudge cool slightly.
- Prepare Chocolate Whipped Topping: In a medium bowl, gently fold together the thawed whipped topping and hot chocolate mix packets until well combined and smoothly incorporated.
- Top the Cake: Spread the chocolate-flavored whipped topping over the cooled fudge layer. Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle mini marshmallows and mini chocolate chips evenly over the top. Slice and enjoy this decadent hot chocolate-inspired dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before poking and adding fillings to prevent melting and sliding.
- You can substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream if preferred.
- This cake is best served chilled but allow it to come to room temperature slightly before serving for the best flavor.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, add an extra packet of hot chocolate mix to the whipped topping.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot chocolate poke cake, chocolate poke cake, marshmallow poke cake, holiday cake, chocolate dessert, easy cake recipe
