Reese’s Peanut Butter Poke Cake: A Decadent Dessert Recipe You Must Try

Reese’s Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a moist, decadent cake. As a long-time fan of both chocolate and peanut butter, I can confidently say that this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. The origins of poke cake date back to the 1970s, when home bakers discovered that poking holes in a baked cake and pouring sweetened condensed milk or pudding over it created a wonderfully moist and flavorful treat. This particular version, infused with the beloved Reese’s flavor, elevates the classic poke cake to new heights.

People love Reese’s Peanut Butter Poke Cake not only for its irresistible taste but also for its delightful texture. The combination of a soft, fluffy cake soaked in creamy peanut butter and chocolate goodness creates a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family!

Ingredients:

• 1 box of chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box, usually eggs, water, and oil)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup chocolate syrup
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1 cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Cake

First things first, let’s get that cake going! I love how easy it is to whip up a chocolate cake mix, and it’s the perfect base for our poke cake.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring that your cake bakes evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix with the ingredients specified on the box. Typically, this includes 3 large eggs, 1 cup of water, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay!
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as oven times can vary!
5. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to poke holes in it without it falling apart.

Making the Poke Mixture

While the cake is cooling, let’s prepare the delicious peanut butter and chocolate mixture that will soak into our cake.

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them together until smooth and creamy. This mixture is going to add a rich, peanut buttery flavor to our cake!
2. Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure to poke deep enough so that the mixture can seep in, but not so deep that it falls apart.
3. Pour the peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk mixture evenly over the top of the cake, making sure to fill the holes. Use a spatula to spread it out if needed. This is where the magic happens, as the cake will absorb all that deliciousness!
4. Next, drizzle 1 cup of chocolate syrup over the top of the cake, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the surface. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is simply irresistible!
5. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to soak up all that goodness.

Preparing the Topping

Now that our cake is chilling and soaking up all those flavors, let’s prepare the topping that will make it even more decadent.

1. In a large bowl, take 1 cup of whipped topping (like Cool Whip) and spread it evenly over the top of the cake once it has chilled. This adds a light and fluffy texture that balances the richness of the cake.
2. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the whipped topping. This adds a delightful crunch and extra peanut butter flavor!
3. If you want to take it up a notch, you can also sprinkle 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of crushed peanuts on top for added texture and flavor. It’s all about that extra indulgence!

Serving the Cake

Now that our Reese’s Peanut Butter Poke Cake is fully assembled, it’s time to serve it up!

1. Using a sharp knife, cut the cake into squares. Make sure to get a piece that has all the layers: cake

Conclusion:

In summary, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Poke Cake is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter. The moist cake, infused with creamy peanut butter and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache, creates a dessert experience that is simply unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this decadent cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich flavors. You can also sprinkle some crushed Reese’s cups on top for an extra crunch and a pop of color. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of banana slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a unique twist that will elevate your dessert game even further. I encourage you to give this Reese’s Peanut Butter Poke Cake a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any variations you might have tried. Remember, baking is all about creativity and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy baking!

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