Reeses Poke Cake Recipe

Easy Reeses Poke Cake Recipe That Charms Every Sweet Tooth

Chocolate and peanut butter create a decadent dance of flavors in this irresistible Reese’s poke cake recipe that promises pure dessert bliss.

Every forkful delivers a symphony of rich, creamy textures that melt in your mouth.

Layers of moist chocolate cake get infused with sweet, velvety filling that seeps into every delightful crevice.

Topped with a generous sprinkle of chopped Reese’s cups, this cake transforms an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary indulgence.

The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates a nostalgic treat that brings joy to any gathering.

Chocolate lovers and peanut butter fanatics will find themselves swooning with each delectable bite.

Prepare to be the star of any potluck or family celebration with this show-stopping dessert.

Reese’s Poke Cake Ingredients You’ll Need

Cake Base:
  • Chocolate Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides the foundational chocolate flavor for the dessert.
  • Half & Half: Adds richness and creaminess to the pudding filling.
Pudding and Peanut Butter Filling:
  • Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Creates a smooth and thick filling that helps bind the cake together.
  • Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the pudding mixture.
Toppings and Garnishes:
  • Chocolate Frosting, Chocolate Sauce: Provide a decadent chocolate layer that complements the peanut butter flavor.
  • Peanut Butter: Drizzled on top to enhance the peanut butter profile of the cake.
  • Reese's Miniature Peanut Butter Cups: Add a classic candy crunch and signature Reese's flavor to the dessert.

Instructions for Baking Reese’s Poke Cake

Instructions for Baking Reese’s Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Base

Whip up the chocolate cake mix following the package instructions.

Once baked, let the cake cool down completely to room temperature.

The cake should feel cool to the touch and be ready for the next delicious stage.

Step 2: Create Filling Channels

Grab a wooden spoon handle or similar utensil with a round end.

Carefully poke holes across the cake surface, spacing them about an inch apart.

Make sure the holes are evenly distributed to ensure every bite gets maximum flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Peanut Butter Pudding

In a mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Half & half
  • Instant vanilla pudding mix
  • Creamy peanut butter

Whisk the ingredients for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and smooth.

The consistency should be rich and creamy.

Step 4: Fill the Cake

Pour the peanut butter pudding mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into every hole.

Use a spoon to guide the filling if needed.

Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the flavors mingle and settle.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Topping

Warm the chocolate frosting in the microwave for 30-40 seconds to make it spreadable.

Generously cover the pudding layer with the melted frosting.

Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for extra indulgence.

Step 6: Garnish with Peanut Butter and Candy

Soften peanut butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds until runny.

Create a beautiful crisscross pattern over the cake.

Sprinkle chopped Reese’s miniature peanut butter cups across the top for a stunning and delicious finish.

Tips for Making the Best Reese’s Poke Cake

  • Whisk the pudding mix and half & half thoroughly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Use the handle of a wooden spoon with consistent pressure to create uniform holes that allow even pudding distribution.
  • Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to let the pudding seep deeply into the cake, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
  • Warm the chocolate frosting briefly in the microwave to make spreading easier and create a more even layer across the cake.
  • Microwave peanut butter in short bursts to ensure it's runny enough for a beautiful crisscross drizzle over the cake's surface.

Storing and Reheating Reese’s Poke Cake

  • Seal the Reeses Poke Cake in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping the cake fresh and moist.
  • Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on medium power to restore the cake's soft texture and enhance the flavors.
  • Let the cake sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and bring out the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.

Great Pairings for Reese’s Poke Cake

  • Chocolate Heaven Pairing: Dark chocolate red wine perfectly complements the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors, enhancing the cake's decadent profile with its bold, complex undertones.
  • Creamy Contrast Companion: Cold milk provides a smooth, refreshing counterpoint to the dense cake, cutting through the richness while highlighting the sweet peanut butter notes.
  • Nutty Sidekick Selection: Roasted almonds or pecans as a side garnish offer a delightful crunch and earthy texture that beautifully balances the cake's creamy, soft consistency.
  • Palate Cleansing Partner: Espresso or strong black coffee serves as an excellent accompaniment, its robust bitterness creating a delightful contrast with the cake's sweet, indulgent layers.

Tasty Twists on the Classic Reese’s Poke Cake

  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Variation: Replace regular chocolate cake mix with a certified gluten-free chocolate cake mix, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this dessert.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap half & half with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free chocolate frosting and peanut butter to create a lactose-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Utilize sugar-free instant pudding mix, sugar-free chocolate frosting, and natural peanut butter with no added sugars to reduce overall sweetness and calorie content.
  • Vegan Friendly Adaptation: Substitute cake mix with a vegan chocolate cake mix, use plant-based milk, dairy-free pudding mix, and replace Reese's cups with vegan chocolate peanut butter cups for a completely plant-based dessert.

FAQs

  • How do I ensure the pudding fills all the holes evenly?

Use a spoon to gently guide the pudding mixture into each hole, making sure it seeps down completely. Tap the cake lightly to help the pudding settle into the deepest parts of the holes.

  • Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mix?

While instant pudding mix works best for consistency and ease, you can use homemade pudding. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape and not make the cake too soggy.

  • What if my peanut butter is too thick to drizzle?

Microwave the peanut butter for 30 seconds or until it becomes smooth and runny. This will make it easier to create a beautiful drizzle pattern over the cake.

  • How can I tell if the cake has cooled completely before poking holes?

The cake should feel cool to the touch and no longer emit steam. This typically takes about 1-2 hours at room temperature. Poking holes in a warm cake can cause the cake to break or the pudding to absorb unevenly.

Why Reese’s Poke Cake Will Be a Party Favorite

Why Reese’s Poke Cake Will Be a Party Favorite
  • Indulge in the irresistible blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and creamy pudding that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
  • Create a stunning dessert that looks professionally made but requires no advanced baking techniques, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
  • Prepare this cake in advance and let it chill, making it an ideal dessert for busy hosts who want to impress without last-minute stress.
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Reeses Poke Cake Recipe

Reeses Poke Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Chocolate lovers rejoice with this dreamy Reeses Poke Cake, blending rich peanut butter and chocolate in one irresistible dessert. Sweet layers and creamy textures will delight your senses, making each bite a blissful celebration of indulgent flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 ounces/432 grams) chocolate cake mix
  • 2 boxes (3.4 ounces/96 grams each) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 container (16 ounces/454 grams) chocolate frosting

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 3 1/2 cups half and half
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter

Toppings and Garnish:

  • 1/4 cup chocolate sauce
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 20 Reeses miniature peanut butter cups (roughly chopped)

Instructions

  1. Craft the chocolate cake base following package instructions, allowing it to cool completely to room temperature.
  2. Using a wooden spoon handle, systematically puncture evenly spaced holes across the cake surface, maintaining a consistent 1-inch grid pattern.
  3. Create the peanut butter pudding mixture by vigorously whisking half & half with instant vanilla pudding mix for 1-2 minutes until thickened, then incorporate creamy peanut butter until fully integrated.
  4. Carefully pour the peanut butter pudding over the cake, ensuring complete penetration of each hole. Utilize a spoon to guide filling into tight spaces if needed.
  5. Refrigerate the cake for minimum 4 hours, allowing flavors to harmonize and pudding to set thoroughly.
  6. Before serving, gently warm chocolate frosting in microwave for 30-40 seconds to achieve spreadable consistency. Distribute evenly across pudding layer.
  7. Microwave peanut butter for approximately 30 seconds until liquefied, then artfully drizzle in crisscross patterns over frosted surface.
  8. Garnish cake with roughly chopped Reese’s miniature peanut butter cups, creating a visually appealing and delectable final layer.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth, evenly mixed cake batter that bakes perfectly without dry or dense spots.
  • Create consistent holes by using the back of a wooden spoon or a chopstick, pressing gently to avoid tearing the cake’s delicate surface.
  • Allow the cake to refrigerate for the full 4 hours to let the pudding completely soak into the cake, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
  • Swap ingredients for gluten-free cake mix, dairy-free pudding, and alternative peanut butter for those with dietary restrictions while maintaining the cake’s delicious essence.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 392
  • Sugar: 29 g
  • Sodium: 455 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 38 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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