How to Make the Ultimate Death By Chocolate Poke Cake

Hey there, fellow chocolate lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you a recipe that’s about to become your new favorite dessert: the Death By Chocolate Poke Cake. This cake is a chocolate dream come true, packed with layers of rich, velvety chocolate that will satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or just need a sweet treat to brighten up your week, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. So, let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know to create this decadent dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, intense chocolate flavor in every bite
• Easy to prepare with a boxed cake mix as the base
• Perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages
• Make-ahead friendly, so you can prepare it in advance
• Feeds a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings
• Combines the best of cakes and puddings for a unique texture

Ingredients

To make this indulgent Death By Chocolate Poke Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 package dark chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz.)
• Ingredients listed on the box to make the cake
• 1 box instant Hershey’s Special Dark Chocolate Pudding mix (3.56 oz.)
• 4 cups milk (divided)
• 1 box Hershey’s Special Dark Chocolate topping (12.8 oz.)
• 1 container frozen whipped topping, thawed (8 oz.)
• 1 Giant Hershey Dark Chocolate candy bar, chopped (6.8 oz.)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this chocolate masterpiece:

1. Bake the Cake: Start by baking the cake according to the package directions using a 9×13-inch baking pan. This step is straightforward and sets the foundation for the rest of the recipe.
2. Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the pudding mix with 2 cups of milk. This mixture will be poured into the holes you create in the cake.
3. Poke and Pour: Once the cake is baked and still hot, use the round end of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the surface. Slowly pour the pudding mixture over the cake, allowing it to fill the holes. This step ensures that the cake is infused with rich chocolate flavor throughout.
4. Add Chocolate Topping: Microwave the chocolate topping for about 45 seconds, or until it’s smooth and pourable. Evenly pour this over the top of the cake, making sure it’s fully coated. Let the cake cool completely before moving on to the next step.
5. Top with Whipped Pudding: In another medium bowl, combine the second pudding mix with the remaining 2 cups of milk. Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
6. Finish with Candy Bar Pieces: Sprinkle the chopped Giant Hershey Dark Chocolate candy bar over the top of the cake for a decorative touch and an extra burst of chocolate flavor.
7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and taste.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Death By Chocolate Poke Cake turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overmix: When folding the whipped topping into the pudding mixture, be gentle to avoid deflating the whipped topping, which could make the topping dense.
• Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding the final layer ensures that the whipped topping doesn’t melt or become runny.
• Chill Thoroughly: The longer the cake chills in the refrigerator, the better the flavors will meld together. For the best results, chill it for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Use High-Quality Chocolate: Hershey’s Special Dark products give this cake its rich, intense chocolate flavor. Using high-quality chocolate ensures the best taste.

How to Serve

When it’s time to serve, you can slice the cake into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. For an extra-special touch, consider topping each slice with additional whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. This cake is perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, or even as a special treat for your family. Its rich flavor and moist texture are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This cake is a great make-ahead dessert option. Once assembled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. If you’re planning to serve it at a later time, you can even prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even more. For longer storage, you can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

There you have it—a simple yet decadent dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a chocolate lover yourself or you’re looking for a dessert to impress your guests, the Death By Chocolate Poke Cake is the perfect choice. So go ahead, give it a try, and indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness that this cake has to offer!