Peppermint Poke Cake (Printable)
Chocolate cake soaked with minty vanilla pudding, chilled and topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint.
# What You Need:
→ Cake Base
01 - 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
02 - 3 large eggs
03 - 1 cup water
04 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
→ Peppermint Pudding Filling
05 - 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
06 - 2 cups cold milk
07 - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
08 - 2 to 3 drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
→ Topping
09 - 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
10 - 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
11 - Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, blend chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and oil following package instructions until the batter is smooth.
03 - Transfer batter to prepared pan. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
04 - Allow cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes in the pan.
05 - Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes across the entire surface of the cake, spacing about 1 inch apart.
06 - In a medium bowl, whisk instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring, if desired, until thickened (approximately 2 minutes).
07 - Immediately pour pudding evenly over cooled cake, using a spatula to spread and press pudding into holes.
08 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set.
09 - Spread thawed whipped topping evenly over chilled cake.
10 - Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies and, if desired, chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips.
11 - Slice and serve cold.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The minty pudding soaks right into the warm cake, ensuring you get extra flavor in every bite.
- The pretty pink swirls and peppermint crunch always spark conversations at parties or family get-togethers.
02 -
- If you pour the pudding before it's thickened, it'll leak straight through and pool at the bottom—I've learned this the messy way.
- Adding peppermint directly to the cake batter can be overwhelming; stick to the pudding layer for a balanced flavor.
03 -
- I always freeze a few pieces individually so they're ready for sneaky late-night treats.
- The secret to the prettiest slices: dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between cuts.