This may contain: a piece of chocolate poke cake on a plate

Quick Description

Death by Chocolate Poke Cake is a chocoholic’s paradise. This cake features a moist chocolate base soaked with decadent chocolate pudding, topped with a fluffy chocolate whipped topping, and finished with a generous sprinkle of chopped chocolate. It’s a no-bake, easy-to-make dessert that will satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 12–16 slices
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Chill Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: ~4 hours 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
  • Ingredients required by the cake mix (usually eggs, water, and oil)

For the Pudding Filling

  • 2 boxes (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 ½ cups cold milk

For the Topping

  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box (usually adding eggs, water, and oil).
  3. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  4. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

  1. Using the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake. Be sure to poke deep enough for the pudding mixture to soak in.

Step 3: Make the Pudding Filling

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk.
  2. Continue whisking for 2 minutes, until the pudding thickens.
  3. Pour the pudding evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
  4. Use a spatula to smooth the pudding out evenly across the surface of the cake.

Step 4: Add the Topping

  1. Spread the whipped topping (Cool Whip) evenly over the pudding layer.
  2. Sprinkle the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips generously over the top.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to allow the layers to set and chill. For best results, leave it overnight.
  2. Once chilled, slice and serve this indulgent, creamy cake.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  • Add a few fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a tart contrast to the richness of the cake.

Tips for Success

  • Pudding Tip: For a richer pudding flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat or skim milk.
  • Chocolate Choice: Use a good quality chocolate pudding mix for the best flavor. You can also use a mix of dark and milk chocolate chips for more depth in flavor.
  • Make-Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, so make it ahead of time for parties or gatherings.

Would you like me to expand this into a full 3000+ word Lanthy blog-style recipe with:

  • Custom frosting options
  • Step-by-step photo instructions
  • Flavor variations (like adding peanut butter or caramel)
  • Party and presentation tips

Let me know if you’d like me to create the extended version!