Name: Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 box devil’s food cake mix (15.25 ounces); 1 box instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 ounces); ¾ cup sour cream; ¾ cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs (slightly beaten); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; ½ cup warm water; 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14-ounces); 1 cup salted caramel sauce (divided use); 1 pinch flaky sea salt; 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (Thawed according to package directions); 1 cup Heath English Toffee Bits

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There’s something truly magical about a Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake. I remember the first time I tasted this delightful dessert at a family gathering; it was like a sweet, chocolatey hug that wrapped me in comfort. The rich layers of chocolate cake, filled with luscious caramel and topped with fluffy whipped cream, make each bite an absolute treat. It’s a cake that’s not just meant for special occasions, but for those everyday moments when you need a bit of sweetness in your life. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a quiet evening at home, this cake always brings a smile to my face.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
4g g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18g g

Tools Used:
Nordic Ware Metal 9×13 Covered Cake Pan, KitchenAid 9-Speed Digital Hand Mixer, Mixing bowl set

The Charm of This Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake

Decadent Layers of Flavor

The first reason I adore Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake is the layers of flavor it brings to the table. Each layer contrasts perfectly: the moist chocolate cake, the creamy filling, and the airy topping blend together to create a rich taste experience. You’ll find that every forkful is a harmonious mix of textures that keeps you coming back for more.

Easy to Make

Another aspect that makes this cake special is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a master baker to whip up this dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning cake that looks and tastes like it took hours of effort. This makes it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family birthday, a potluck, or even just a weekday treat, Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake fits the bill. It’s versatile enough to make any gathering feel festive and special. Your friends and family will be asking for the recipe, and you’ll be proud to share!

Customizable Delight

This cake is also incredibly customizable. Want to switch it up? You can add different toppings, like crushed nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can even use different cake mixes or fillings to create a new flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to recipe for any chocolate lover.

Great for Leftovers

Finally, Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake is perfect for leftovers. It keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can enjoy a slice for days after you make it. There’s nothing better than having a sweet treat waiting for you after dinner. Plus, the flavors continue to meld together, making it taste even better the next day!

Ingredient List for Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake

In creating the perfect Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake, each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The base is a rich chocolate cake that’s both moist and fluffy, setting the stage for the sweet and creamy filling. The harmony of sour cream and vegetable oil ensures a tender crumb, while the sweetened condensed milk brings an irresistible sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a cake that is not only delicious but also memorable.

1 box devil’s food cake mix (15.25 ounces) – This is the foundation of your cake, providing the rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with the toffee.
1 box instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 ounces) – This adds extra moisture and richness, taking the cake to the next level.
¾ cup sour cream – This key ingredient gives the cake a tender crumb and adds a subtle tanginess.
¾ cup vegetable oil – Used to keep the cake moist and delicious.
3 large eggs, slightly beaten – These help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – A dash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
½ cup warm water – This helps to bring the cake batter together and create a smooth consistency.
1 can sweetened condensed milk (14-ounces) – This sweet filling is poured over the cake after baking, creating a deliciously gooey texture.
1 cup salted caramel sauce, divided use – The star of the show, this sauce adds rich depth and sweetness.
Pinch of flaky sea salt – A tiny touch of salt balances the sweetness perfectly.
8 ounces frozen whipped topping (Truwhip or Cool Whip), thawed according to package directions – This light topping adds a wonderful creaminess.
1 cup Heath English Toffee Bits – These bits not only add texture but also a delightful crunch.

Making This Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake

Making a Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of chocolate. Follow these simple steps to create a dessert that your friends and family will love. Let’s dive into the process!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the devil’s food cake mix, instant chocolate pudding mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and warm water. Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix on medium speed for about two minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
After mixing, pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the pan.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is done when the top springs back lightly when touched. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!
While the cake is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, ¾ cup of caramel sauce, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Whisk thoroughly until well combined and set aside.
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, grab a smoothie straw or the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about one inch apart. Make sure to poke deep enough to allow the filling to soak in.
Evenly pour the condensed milk and caramel sauce mixture over the hot cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes you’ve made. This is where the magic happens!
Let the cake cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once the cake has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and top it with the thawed whipped topping. Spread it evenly across the surface of the cake.
Finally, sprinkle the Heath English Toffee Bits on top and finish by drizzling the remaining caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

Things Worth Knowing

Let it Chill: Allowing the cake to chill is crucial for the flavors to develop. The longer you let it sit, the richer the flavor will be.
Poking Holes: Ensure that the holes are deep enough for the filling to pour into. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Quality Ingredients: Use good quality caramel sauce for the best flavor. Homemade can take it to the next level!
Presentation Matters: For an appealing presentation, consider garnishing with extra toffee bits and a drizzle of caramel sauce just before serving.

Helpful Notes about Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake

When it comes to making the most of your Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake, consider these helpful tips to elevate your dessert experience.

Storage: Keep leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure it’s covered to keep it fresh.
Freezing: You can freeze slices of the cake for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee.
Serving Temperature: While the cake is delicious chilled, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for a softer texture.
Variations: Feel free to try different pudding flavors or toppings to create new versions of this cake!

Great Combinations for Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake

Serving your Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake can be a delightful experience, expanding beyond just the cake itself. Here are some great combinations:

Ice Cream: Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate and caramel.
Seasonal Fruits: Pair with fresh berries or banana slices for a pop of freshness that cuts through the richness.
Coffee: This cake is perfect with a hot cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweet flavors beautifully.
Picnic Treat: Ideal for outdoor gatherings or picnics, this cake is easy to transport and always a hit.
Birthday Celebrations: Make it the centerpiece of your next birthday celebration. Everyone loves a delicious chocolate cake!

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time is a great idea. The flavors meld together beautifully after a few hours in the refrigerator. You can make it a day before your event, just ensure you cover it well to keep it fresh. Allow it to chill for at least four hours before serving for the best results.

You can certainly experiment with different pudding flavors! While chocolate is traditional, vanilla or even caramel pudding can be delightful options. Just remember to adjust any accompanying flavors or toppings to match the pudding you choose.

Leftover Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. If you want to keep it longer, you can slice the cake and freeze portions for up to three months.

Definitely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor of your Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold up when poured over the cake. You can find many easy recipes online to make your own caramel sauce.

The traditional recipe for Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake is not gluten-free, as it uses a standard chocolate cake mix. However, you can find gluten-free cake mixes to substitute in this recipe. Just be sure to check the other ingredients as well.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Toffee Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with gooey caramel and whipped topping. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, and its ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. I encourage you to try it out and share it with your family and friends—you won’t be disappointed!