Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines moist cake, creamy custard, and rich chocolate ganache. Imagine slicing into a cake that reveals layers of deliciousness, each bite bursting with flavor.
Every time I make this Boston Cream Poke Cake, it takes me back to family gatherings where desserts were the true stars. Itβs the perfect indulgence for birthdays, potlucks, or just because you deserve a treat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Boston Cream Poke Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for beginners
- Its rich flavors and stunning presentation will impress everyone at your next gathering
- The combination of texturesβfrom the soft cake to the creamy fillingβis simply irresistible
- Enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat
I remember the first time I made this cake; my friends devoured it in minutes and couldnβt stop raving about how delicious it was.
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: Opt for a quality brand for the best texture; homemade works too if youβre feeling adventurous.
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Eggs: Use large eggs for consistent results; they enhance the cakeβs rise and flavor.
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Milk: Whole milk adds richness but you can substitute with any milk you prefer.
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Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This is essential for that creamy layer; pick a brand you love.
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Heavy Whipping Cream: Use fresh cream for making the ganache; it ensures smooth melting and rich flavor.
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Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best here, but feel free to experiment with dark or milk chocolate.
For the Toppings:
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Whipped Topping or Fresh Whipped Cream: Use store-bought or homemade; both add a delightful finishing touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease a 9Γ13-inch baking dish with cooking spray so the cake doesnβt stick.
Bake the Cake Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, and milk. Mix until everything is well blended. Pour into your prepared baking dish and bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Create Holes for Poking!: Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Then use a fork to poke holes all over the topβthis allows custard to seep in and create that signature βpokeβ effect.
Add Vanilla Pudding Filling: In another bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Pour this creamy goodness over your poked cake, spreading it evenly into those holes.
Make Chocolate Ganache Topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine heavy whipping cream and chocolate chips. Stir until melted and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring over your pudding layer.
Chill Before Serving: Cover your Boston Cream Poke Cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible. This helps all those amazing flavors meld together beautifully!
Now youβve created an unforgettable dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every sweet bite of your Boston Cream Poke Cake!
You Must Know
- Mastering the Boston Cream Poke Cake recipe is a delightful journey
- This decadent dessert combines rich chocolate and creamy vanilla layers, making it a crowd favorite
- The poke cake method ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, delivering a sweet experience thatβs hard to resist
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake according to package instructions. Once cooled, poke holes using a fork before pouring the pudding over. This sequence allows maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or add a touch of espresso powder to the cake mix for an adult twist. Customize it to fit your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Boston Cream Poke Cake in the refrigerator for up to five days. If reheating, do so gently in the microwave to keep the texture moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best results with your Boston Cream Poke Cake, consider these expert tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and better rise
- Ensure you let the pudding set thoroughly before adding toppings for perfect texture
- Lastly, refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavors that blend beautifully
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first attempt at baking. I was so proud when my friends devoured my Boston Cream Poke Cake at a gathering, declaring it their new favorite dessert!
FAQ
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding?
Absolutely! Homemade pudding can elevate your Boston Cream Poke Cake even further with its fresh taste.
How long does this cake last in the fridge?
The Boston Cream Poke Cake stays fresh in the refrigerator for about five days.
Can I freeze my Boston Cream Poke Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure itβs well wrapped to maintain its flavor and texture.

Boston Cream Poke Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a scrumptious dessert that layers moist yellow cake with creamy vanilla pudding and rich chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat that will impress family and friends. Each slice delivers a burst of flavor, making it an irresistible indulgence for birthdays, potlucks, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients as per package)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Whipped topping or fresh whipped cream (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9Γ13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, eggs, and milk; blend well. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before poking holes all over the top with a fork.
- In another bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened; pour over the poked cake.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt heavy cream with chocolate chips until smooth to create ganache. Cool slightly and pour over the pudding layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using homemade pudding instead of instant. You can substitute vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding or add espresso powder for an adult twist.