Name: Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz); 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate for garnish

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Introduction

Black Forest Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining rich chocolate cake with sweet cherry filling and fluffy whipped cream. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion, offering layers of flavor and texture that everyone will love.

A square piece of chocolate cake with three visible layers sits on a white plate over a red and white striped cloth. The bottom layer is thick and dark brown with a crumbly texture. The middle layer is white cream mixed with red cherry bits, spread evenly on top of the cake base. The top layer is a smooth white cream, decorated with several whole shiny red cherries and dark brown piped chocolate cream swirls, along with chocolate shavings scattered around. A silver fork lies next to the cake on the plate. The background shows a blurred white bowl and a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prepare it for the cake batter.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well mixed. Pour it evenly into the prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. This step allows the cherry filling to soak in beautifully.
Step 5: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top, making sure it fills the holes you created. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the next layer.
Step 6: In a clean mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped cream gently over the cooled cake.
Step 7: Garnish the cake with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
Step 8: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together perfectly.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, substitute half the water in the cake mix with brewed coffee.
Try using fresh cherries or other fruit fillings like raspberry or blueberry for a different twist.
Use stabilized whipped cream if you plan to serve the cake several hours after preparation to keep the topping firm.

Storage

Store the poke cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the whipped cream fresh. When ready to serve, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and cherries can be compromised.

How to Serve

A square piece of dessert sits on a white plate on a white marbled texture. The bottom layer is dark and crumbly chocolate cake. Above it is a thick layer of white whipped cream that looks soft and fluffy. On top of the cream, bright red raspberries are placed evenly, adding color and texture. Dark chocolate sauce is drizzled generously over the raspberries and whipped cream, with some sauce dripping down. The lighting makes the chocolate sauce shiny and glossy, highlighting rich textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of the mix?

Yes, a homemade chocolate cake works great. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to be poked and soaked with the cherry filling without falling apart.

How do I prevent the whipped cream from melting too quickly?

Use cold heavy cream and chill your bowl and beaters before whipping. Additionally, keep the cake refrigerated until serving and don’t leave it at room temperature for long periods.