Description
This Raspberry Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful layered dessert combining rich chocolate cake, smooth chocolate pudding, and sweet raspberry jam, all topped with fluffy whipped cream and fresh raspberries for a refreshing finish. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, delivering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the package)
Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Raspberry Layer
- 1 cup raspberry jam or preserves
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- Optional: chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and bake the cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, including eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake as directed, usually around 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes.
- Poke holes in the cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake about 1 inch apart to allow the pudding to seep in and create moist layers.
- Prepare chocolate pudding: In a bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk vigorously for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly to a creamy consistency.
- Fill the holes with pudding: Pour the prepared chocolate pudding evenly over the cake, spreading it carefully into each of the holes, ensuring it seeps into the cake layers for maximum flavor.
- Add raspberry jam layer: Microwave the raspberry jam for 20–30 seconds until it becomes pourable. Drizzle it evenly over the pudding layer to add a sweet and tart contrast.
- Chill the cake: Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the pudding and jam set and the flavors meld.
- Prepare whipped cream topping: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form—a fluffy, light topping.
- Top and garnish: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake. Decorate the top with fresh raspberries and, if desired, sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for an elegant finishing touch.
- Serve chilled: Cut the cake into 12 slices and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, use seedless raspberry jam or preserves.
- For an extra-rich version, substitute the whipped cream topping with chocolate ganache or raspberry mousse.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.