Name: Ultimate Cherry Chocolate Poke Cake Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 ounces / 432g) chocolate or yellow cake mix; Ingredients listed on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water); 1 can (21 ounces / 595g) cherry pie filling; 1 package (3.9 ounces / 110g) instant chocolate or vanilla pudding mix; 2 cups (480ml) cold milk (for pudding); 1 container (8 ounces / 225g) frozen whipped topping, thawed; 1/2 cup (85g) mini chocolate chips; Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)

why make this recipe

Ultimate Cherry Chocolate Poke Cake Delight is a fun and easy dessert that combines moist chocolate cake with sweet cherry filling and creamy pudding. It’s a perfect treat for parties, family gatherings, or just a relaxing weekend at home. In just a few easy steps, you can have a delicious dessert that everyone will love!

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how to make Ultimate Cherry Chocolate Poke Cake Delight

Ingredients:

1 box (15.25 ounces / 432g) chocolate or yellow cake mix
Ingredients listed on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
1 can (21 ounces / 595g) cherry pie filling
1 package (3.9 ounces / 110g) instant chocolate or vanilla pudding mix
2 cups (480ml) cold milk (for pudding)
1 container (8 ounces / 225g) frozen whipped topping, thawed
1/2 cup (85g) mini chocolate chips
Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or follow the instructions on the cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.
Prepare and bake the cake mix according to the package directions.
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. While it is still warm, poke holes all over the top of the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon or a large fork, about 1 inch apart.
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the warm cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Spread any leftover filling on top. Allow the cake to cool completely.
To prepare the pudding, whisk the instant pudding mix and cold milk together in a medium bowl for about 2 minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
Spread the pudding layer evenly over the cooled cherry-topped cake.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to let the pudding set a bit more.
Once the pudding is set, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping.
If you like, garnish with maraschino cherries. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving so the flavors mix well. Keep the cake refrigerated until you are ready to serve.

how to serve Ultimate Cherry Chocolate Poke Cake Delight

Serve this cake chilled for the best flavor and texture. Cut it into squares and place them on plates. You can also add extra cherries or chocolate chips on top for a special touch.

how to store Ultimate Cherry Chocolate Poke Cake Delight

Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It should stay good for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

tips to make Ultimate Cherry Chocolate Poke Cake Delight

Make sure the cake is still warm when you poke the holes, as this helps the cherry filling soak in better.
For a richer flavor, use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.
Feel free to use fresh cherries if you have them, but be sure to pit them first!
Adjust the number of chocolate chips based on your preference; you can add more or less as you like.

variation

You can switch up the fruit filling by using blueberry or strawberry pie filling instead of cherry. This will give you a new flavor while keeping the same delicious cake base.

FAQs

Can I make this cake a day ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve.

Can I freeze the cake?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I use instead of whipped topping?
You can use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping for a more natural taste. Just whip heavy cream and add some sugar to it.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert!