Reese’s Poke Cake

Introduction

There’s a dessert that combines the two most irresistible flavors—peanut butter and chocolate—and it’s called Reese’s Poke Cake. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a party, or simply indulging in a cozy evening at home, this dessert is the perfect showstopper. The rich, moist chocolate cake is infused with a luscious peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk mixture, topped with a creamy, dreamy peanut butter Cool Whip layer, and finished off with mini Reese’s for an extra burst of chocolatey goodness. It’s everything you crave in a dessert, and more.

Inspired by the love for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, this cake takes the iconic flavor combination to a whole new level. You might find yourself making it for every occasion—it’s that good!

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Why You’ll Love Reese’s Poke Cake

What makes Reese’s Poke Cake so special? Well, it’s not just the combination of chocolate and peanut butter that everyone loves. The magic happens when the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter seep into the warm chocolate cake, making every bite decadently moist and bursting with flavor. Add in a layer of fluffy Cool Whip and a generous topping of chopped Reese’s, and you’ve got a dessert that’s sure to impress. Here are a few more reasons why this dessert should be on your must-try list:

• Easy to make: No complicated steps or specialized skills required. If you can bake a cake and mix a few ingredients, you can whip up this incredible treat in no time!
• Great for sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family get-togethers.
• Perfect for all occasions: Whether it’s a birthday bash, a holiday celebration, or just a sweet treat for a random Tuesday, Reese’s Poke Cake fits the bill.
• Customizable: Want to add more peanut butter or drizzle some chocolate syrup on top? Go for it! This cake is versatile and easy to personalize.

Now that you know why this cake is a must-try, let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that make it all come together.

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Ingredients for Reese’s Poke Cake

This recipe calls for a few simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 chocolate cake mix (and ingredients per package instructions)
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy works best)
• 1 tub chocolate frosting
• 8 oz container Cool Whip
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (additional for Cool Whip mixture)
• Mini Reese’s or chopped Reese’s for topping

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How to Make Reese’s Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

Begin by preparing the chocolate cake mix according to the directions on the package. It’s quick and easy! Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool for about 15-20 minutes. This gives the cake time to settle before you poke it.

Step 2: Poke the Holes

Using a wooden spoon handle or a skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake. Be sure to create enough holes for the peanut butter mixture to seep into. The more holes, the more flavor the cake will absorb, making each bite even more indulgent.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, milk, and 1 cup of peanut butter. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and well-blended. This peanut butter mixture will be poured over the cake and work its way into the holes, creating pockets of peanut butter goodness throughout the cake. Pour it evenly over the cake, letting it seep into all the holes.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Frosting

Microwave the tub of chocolate frosting for about 20 seconds to soften it up. Once it’s soft, spread it evenly over the cake. The frosting adds an extra layer of chocolatey richness that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.

Step 5: Make the Peanut Butter Cool Whip Layer

In a separate bowl, mix Cool Whip and 1/2 cup peanut butter. Stir gently until the two are just combined. Don’t overmix; you want to maintain the light, airy texture of the Cool Whip. Spread this mixture over the chocolate frosting layer, gently swirling it to create a marbled effect.

Step 6: Add the Reese’s Topping

For the finishing touch, top the cake with mini Reese’s or chopped Reese’s. You can be generous here—after all, more chocolate and peanut butter never hurt anyone! This adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness to every bite.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Refrigerate your cake for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the cake to set. This step is crucial—chilling the cake helps it hold its shape and makes for better slicing. If you have time, consider letting it chill overnight for an even richer flavor.

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Tips for the Perfect Reese’s Poke Cake

• Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture in the milk mixture and the Cool Whip swirl. It blends better and creates a silky consistency.
• Chill the cake overnight for an even richer flavor and better sliceability. The flavors have more time to develop, and the cake will slice neatly.
• Microwave the frosting to soften it before spreading. This ensures the frosting goes on smoothly and doesn’t tear the cake apart.
• Customize the toppings: If you love a little extra chocolate, drizzle some chocolate syrup over the top or sprinkle more chopped Reese’s for an added crunch.
• For a more decadent cake, consider adding a layer of peanut butter between the cake and frosting. This extra layer makes the cake even more indulgent!

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Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Reese’s Poke Cake is a rich and indulgent treat. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: 12 servings

While it’s certainly not a low-calorie option, it’s the perfect dessert to indulge in for special occasions. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, so every bite will be worth it!

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When to Serve Reese’s Poke Cake

Wondering when the best time to serve Reese’s Poke Cake is? It’s perfect for any celebration, big or small. Here are a few ideas:

• Birthday Parties: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
• Holiday Gatherings: Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving—this cake fits in perfectly as a festive dessert.
• Summer BBQs: If you’re hosting a cookout or potluck, Reese’s Poke Cake will be the first dessert to disappear.
• Casual Weeknight Treat: Sometimes, you just need something sweet to finish off the day, and this cake is the ultimate comfort food.

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How to Store Reese’s Poke Cake

To keep your Reese’s Poke Cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can last up to 4-5 days in the fridge, though we highly recommend enjoying it sooner rather than later—it’s just that good!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! In fact, it’s a great dessert to make ahead of time. It needs to chill for at least 3 hours, but making it the day before allows the flavors to deepen and makes it easier to slice.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a cake mix?

Absolutely! If you prefer to make the cake from scratch, go for it. Just ensure you’re using a rich, moist chocolate cake recipe that will hold up to the toppings and filling.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

If you’re not a fan of Cool Whip, you can substitute with whipped cream. Just make sure it’s stabilized with a bit of powdered sugar so it doesn’t deflate when you spread it on the cake.

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Conclusion

Reese’s Poke Cake is an unforgettable dessert that blends the flavors of chocolate and peanut butter into a moist, creamy, and irresistible treat. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, throwing a party, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake is sure to become a favorite. With easy-to-follow steps and a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this decadent dessert in no time. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate chocolate-peanut butter combination!

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Now, it’s your turn—are you ready to create this indulgent masterpiece and share it with your friends and family?

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