Name: Boston Cream Poke Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix (16.25 ounces); 1 box vanilla instant pudding (5.9 ounces); 4 cups milk; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon butter

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something about a Boston Cream Poke Cake that evokes fond memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings. I still remember the first time I had this delightful dessert at my aunt’s house. She would always make it for birthday celebrations, and it quickly became the star of the show. The combination of moist yellow cake, creamy pudding, and rich chocolate ganache creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Each bite is like a hug from the inside, instantly lifting your spirits. I love how it brings everyone together around the table, eagerly awaiting a slice. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special occasion, this cake never fails to impress. It’s the perfect treat to share with friends and family, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to whip it up time and time again.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl

Why You Need This Boston Cream Poke Cake

The Boston Cream Poke Cake is not just any dessert; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why this cake holds a special place in my heart:

1. Nostalgic Flavors

With its rich vanilla and chocolate flavors, this cake brings back memories of childhood celebrations. The taste of the creamy pudding and ganache takes me back to those joyful moments.

2. Poke Cake Technique

This unique method of poking holes in the cake lets the pudding seep in, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy dessert!

3. Easy to Prepare

Even if you’re new to baking, you’ll find this recipe straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive dessert that looks and tastes gourmet.

4. Crowd-Pleaser

Whether it’s for a birthday party, potluck, or just a family dinner, people can’t get enough of this cake. It’s often the highlight of any dessert table.

5. Versatile Serving Options

You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for any season. It’s an all-year-round treat that fits any occasion!

6. Make-Ahead Delight

One of the best things about the Boston Cream Poke Cake is that you can prepare it a day ahead. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Boston Cream Poke Cake

When it comes to baking, the right ingredients make all the difference! For this Boston Cream Poke Cake, you’ll need a blend of essential components that create a deliciously moist cake, a creamy pudding filling, and a rich chocolate ganache. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the cake’s signature taste and texture.

1 box yellow cake mix (16.25 ounces), plus ingredients listed on the back of the box to make the cake – This is the foundation of your cake, providing moisture and a sweet base for your dessert.
1 box vanilla instant pudding (5.9 ounces) – This adds a creamy texture and enhances the vanilla flavor in the cake.
4 cups milk – Essential for preparing the pudding, it helps create that creamy consistency.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – These are melted to make a luscious ganache that tops the cake, adding richness.
1 cup heavy whipping cream – This is whipped to create a smooth ganache that coats your cake.
1 tablespoon butter – A little butter adds extra flavor and smoothness to the ganache.

How to Make Boston Cream Poke Cake

Creating a Boston Cream Poke Cake is an enjoyable process that results in a delicious dessert! You’ll find that each step is simple and rewarding. Let’s dive into the instructions and bring this cake to life!

Prepare the cake: Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the back of the yellow cake mix box. Mix the cake batter according to the package directions and pour it into a greased 13×9 inch pan. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before moving to the next step.
Poke holes in the cake: Once the cake is cool, take the handle of a large wooden spoon and poke holes throughout the entire cake, making sure to go all the way to the bottom. This allows the pudding to soak in and infuse the cake with flavor.
Make the pudding: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding and 4 cups of milk until smooth. Be sure to whisk vigorously to avoid any lumps. Once mixed, immediately pour the thin pudding over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes.
Chill the cake: Cover the cake and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour. This helps the pudding set and blend with the cake.
Make the ganache: In a heat-proof bowl, heat the heavy whipping cream in the microwave until hot but not boiling—this usually takes around 30 to 60 seconds. Once hot, remove it from the microwave and add the butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir until smooth.
Frost the cake: After allowing the ganache to cool slightly for about 10 minutes, pour it evenly over the cake, ensuring it covers all the pudding and creates a luscious layer on top. Use a spatula to smooth it out if needed.
Chill again: Cover the cake and return it to the refrigerator, chilling for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the ganache to set.
Serve: When you’re ready to serve, slice the cake into squares, and enjoy the delightful layers of cake, pudding, and ganache. Each bite is sure to please!

Things Worth Knowing

Timing is key: Allow the cake to chill adequately. This enhances the flavor and texture.
Quality chocolate: Using good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips will elevate the taste of your ganache.
Pudding consistency: Ensure you whisk the pudding thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency without lumps.
Don’t rush the cooling: Waiting for the cake to cool completely before poking holes is crucial to prevent it from falling apart.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, the Boston Cream Poke Cake offers plenty of opportunities for creativity! Here are some exciting variations to consider:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cake fresh and moist.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Flavor variations: Try using different flavored instant pudding, such as chocolate or butterscotch, to give the cake a unique twist!
Top it off: Feel free to add nuts, sprinkles, or fresh fruit on top for added texture and flavor.
Serving style: Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving the Boston Cream Poke Cake, the options are endless! Here’s how to make it even more enjoyable:

Pair with berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries complement the rich chocolate and creamy layers beautifully.
Perfect for gatherings: This cake is an excellent choice for birthdays, barbecues, or potlucks, where it can be the centerpiece of dessert.
Serve with coffee: A slice of this cake alongside a cup of coffee creates a delightful combination.
Seasonal touches: You can switch it up with seasonal fruits or flavors to make it fit different occasions.
Layered dessert: For a fun twist, serve it in cups with layers of cake, pudding, and ganache for an individual dessert.

FAQ

A Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a moist yellow cake with creamy vanilla pudding and a rich chocolate ganache. The cake is poked with holes, allowing the pudding to seep in, creating a luscious treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Absolutely! The Boston Cream Poke Cake is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it tastes even better when chilled overnight, as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just remember to cover it well to keep it fresh in the refrigerator.

If you want to try something different, you can use a homemade yellow cake recipe instead of the box mix. Just ensure that the texture will hold up well under the pudding and ganache layers. Chocolate cake is also a delicious alternative!

To keep your Boston Cream Poke Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. Enjoy it within a few days for the best taste!

Conclusion

The Boston Cream Poke Cake is truly a standout dessert that encapsulates the joy of simple ingredients coming together. It’s not just a cake; it’s a heartfelt treat that brings back cherished memories. I encourage you to try making this cake for your next gathering or just to satisfy a sweet craving. You won’t regret it; every slice is a little piece of happiness!