There’s something magical about the first slice of cake. You can practically hear the sigh of satisfaction as people dive into this Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake, a dessert that’s not just pretty to look at but an absolute delight to eat. With its rich chocolate base and creamy ganache filling, each morsel offers a perfect balance of taste and texture, making it an easy favorite for everyone. This cake is not only simple to whip up but also versatile enough for birthdays, holidays, or any casual family gathering. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests begging for seconds! So, what flavors will you swirl in for your own twist on this classic?
Why is this cake a must-try?
Decadence at its finest: This Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake is an irresistible treat that promises to impress with its rich chocolatey goodness.
Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Versatile for any occasion: Perfect for birthdays or holidays, this cake can easily adapt to seasonal flavors, making it a year-round favorite!
Flavorful classic: Luxurious chocolate ganache and fluffy marshmallow topping make each bite a delightful experience.
Crowd-pleaser: Its mouthwatering taste will have everyone asking for the recipe—ideal for gatherings with family and friends!
If you’re in the mood for more indulgent sweets, check out our recipes for Mint Chocolate Brownies or White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge.
Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake Ingredients
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For the Cake
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Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake Mix – This forms the moist and rich chocolate base; feel free to swap it for your favorite chocolate cake mix.
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For the Ganache
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Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds a luscious creaminess to the ganache; can be replaced with evaporated milk for a less sweet alternative.
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Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Essential for achieving that deep chocolate flavor in the ganache; dark chocolate chips can be utilized for a more intense taste.
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Heavy Cream – Enables a creamy texture in both the ganache and whipped topping; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, though it may not whip ideally.
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For the Topping
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Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped topping; reduce the amount if you prefer a less sweet profile.
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Marshmallow Fluff – Gives the topping an airy, sweet finish; can be swapped with meringue for a healthier choice.
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Finishing Touch
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Extra Chocolate Chips – Use these melted with heavy cream as a drizzle for that elegant finishing touch on your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake Mix with the required ingredients as per the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar object, carefully poke holes evenly across the top of the warm cake. Ensure you’re making holes that are about 1 inch apart, going deep enough to reach the bottom but not breaking the surface. These holes will allow the luscious ganache to seep into the Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake, enhancing its flavor and moisture.
Step 3: Prepare the Ganache
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely smooth and velvety, taking about 1–2 minutes. Once ready, pour the ganache generously into the holes you made and use a spatula to spread any remaining ganache over the top of the cake for an elegant finish.
Step 4: Chill the Cake
After you have added the ganache, place the cake in the refrigerator to cool for at least 1 hour. This chilling process helps the ganache set beautifully and firm up within the cake. You’ll know it’s ready when the ganache has a nice glossy appearance and feels firm to the touch.
Step 5: Make the Whipped Topping
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3–5 minutes using an electric mixer on high speed. Once the cream is whipped, gently fold in the marshmallow fluff until fully incorporated, creating a light and airy topping that will perfectly complement your cake.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Remove the chilled Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake from the refrigerator. Spread the fluffy marshmallow whipped topping evenly over the entire surface, smoothing it out with a spatula. Make sure to cover the ganache topping completely, providing a beautiful, inviting contrast against the rich chocolate.
Step 7: Drizzle with Chocolate
For an extra touch of indulgence, melt some additional chocolate chips with a splash of heavy cream in the microwave. Drizzle this melted chocolate decoratively over the marshmallow topping, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a stunning final presentation. The glossy drizzle will add visual appeal and an extra layer of chocolate flavor.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake into squares and serve chilled. This cake is perfect for celebrations or a sweet end to any family meal. Watch the delight on everyone’s faces as they savor each bite of this decadent treat, rich in chocolate and delightful textures!
Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity, as this Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake is just waiting for your personal touch!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts to the ganache for an added crunch and flavor contrast.
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Fruity Fusion: Swirl in some raspberry or cherry preserves into the whip for a delightful fruity twist.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dark chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version without losing flavor.
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Seasonal Spice: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg in the ganache for a warm, holiday touch that’ll fill your home with cozy aromas.
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Peanut Butter Bliss: Mix creamy peanut butter into the ganache for a luscious, decadent layer that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Adding different flavors not only personalizes your cake but also opens a whole new world of deliciousness to explore! If you’re feeling adventurous, dive into our scrumptious Chocolate Churro Cookies or treat yourself to some festive Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream. Each variation easily transforms your classic poke cake into something new and exciting!
What to Serve with Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake
Enhance your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement this indulgent treat perfectly.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed cup will balance the cake’s sweetness, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing chill and creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake.
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Fresh Berries: Light and juicy, berries like strawberries or raspberries cut through the richness of the cake, providing a bright, tart finish.
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Chocolate Milkshake: For the ultimate chocolate lover’s paradise, serve a thick chocolate milkshake alongside a slice for a delightful, nostalgic pairing.
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Nutty Granola Bars: These add a crunchy texture and a hint of nuttiness, elevating the dessert experience while providing a wholesome complement.
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Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea offers a refreshing palate cleanser that offsets the cake’s sweetness, making each bite feel like a new adventure.
Expert Tips for Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the heavy cream, are at room temperature for optimal mixing and whipping.
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Poke Strategically: When poking holes, space them about 1 inch apart to ensure even ganache distribution throughout the Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake.
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Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the cake for at least an hour helps the ganache set properly and enhances the flavor.
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Whipped Topping Consistency: Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form; this ensures your topping holds its shape and complements the cake’s textures.
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Decorative Drizzle: For an elegant touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the topping right before serving to wow your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake
Fridge: Store the Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures it stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen slices, thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving. This helps maintain the cake’s delicious texture and flavor.
Reheating: If you prefer your cake slightly warm, microwave a slice for about 10–15 seconds. Enjoy the melted ganache and fluffy marshmallow topping!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake in advance is a fantastic way to save time for busy occasions! You can bake the cake and let it cool, then poke the holes and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before adding the ganache. The ganache can be prepared in advance too; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To ensure it remains silky, give it a quick stir before pouring it onto the cake. Finally, whip the marshmallow topping just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture. A little planning ahead makes this cake just as delicious, letting you enjoy the celebration without last-minute stress!
Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate cake mix works best?
Absolutely! A Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake Mix offers the richest flavor, but you can substitute it with any chocolate cake mix you prefer. Just make sure it’s one that you enjoy for the best results!
How should I store the Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This method preserves its delicious flavor and creamy texture, ensuring that every slice remains as delightful as the first.
Can I freeze the cake for later?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor.
What if the ganache doesn’t fill the holes properly?
If the ganache doesn’t seep in as expected, try poking the holes deeper or wider with a skewer for better flow. Make sure to do this while the cake is still warm to aid in absorption. For next time, you can also make a thicker ganache to ensure it fills those holes more generously!
Can I make this cake without certain allergens?
Absolutely! For dairy-free options, use dairy-free milk and vegan butter in place of heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. To reduce sugar, consider a sugar substitute in both the cake and the ganache. Just keep in mind that these changes may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
How do I know when the cake is baked perfectly?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean after 25-30 minutes of baking. If there’s any wet batter clinging to the toothpick, give it a bit more time in the oven. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry cake!
Decadent Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake for Every Celebration
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil's Food Chocolate Cake Mix with required ingredients as per package instructions. Pour batter into greased 9x13 inch pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean. Cool for about 10 minutes.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the top of the warm cake, about 1 inch apart.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Pour ganache into holes and spread over top of the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to help ganache set.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold in marshmallow fluff until fully incorporated.
- Spread the marshmallow whipped topping over the cake, smoothing it out completely.
- Melt additional chocolate chips with heavy cream in the microwave. Drizzle over the marshmallow topping.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
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