If you’re a true chocolate lover, get ready—this Death by Chocolate Poke Cake is the dessert of your dreams. Ultra-moist, rich, and layered with chocolate pudding, silky ganache, and fluffy whipped cream, this cake is the definition of indulgence. Every bite melts in your mouth and delivers deep, irresistible chocolate flavor from top to bottom. It’s the perfect dessert for birthdays, gatherings, holidays, or whenever you crave something outrageously decadent.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)

For the Chocolate Pudding:

• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Whipped Topping:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Mini chocolate chips
• Chocolate shavings
• Crushed chocolate cookies (optional)

Instructions

1. Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
2. Let the pudding sit for 5 minutes so it thickens fully.

3. Poke and Fill the Cake

1. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes all over the cooled cake at 1-inch intervals.
2. Pour the chocolate pudding over the cake, spreading evenly and making sure it fills the holes.
3. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the pudding to set.

4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth and glossy.
3. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cake.

5. Prepare the Whipped Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the ganache layer.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle mini chocolate chips, chocolate shavings, and crushed chocolate cookies on top.
• Refrigerate the cake for another hour, or until ready to serve.

7. Enjoy

Slice and serve this Death by Chocolate Poke Cake, and dive into layers of chocolate bliss. Every bite is a decadent journey through chocolate heaven!

FAQs – Death by Chocolate Poke Cake

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is actually even better the next day. The pudding and ganache soak into the cake, making it extra moist and rich. You can prepare it 24 hours in advance and keep it chilled until serving.

2. Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely. A homemade chocolate cake works perfectly—just make sure it’s baked in a 9×13-inch pan so the layering fits correctly.

3. Does the cake need to stay refrigerated?

Yes. Because of the pudding, ganache, and whipped topping, the cake should stay in the fridge. Store it covered to keep it fresh and creamy.

4. How long does Death by Chocolate Poke Cake last?

It stays fresh for about 3–4 days when refrigerated. After that, the texture may change slightly, but it’s usually still delicious.

5. Can I substitute Cool Whip for the homemade whipped topping?

You can! If you prefer a shortcut, use 1 tub (8–12 oz) of Cool Whip in place of homemade whipped cream.

6. My pudding is too thin—what happened?

Instant pudding must be mixed with cold milk to thicken properly. If warm milk is used, or if it’s under-mixed, it may stay runny. Whisk it for at least 2 minutes and let it sit for 5 minutes before pouring.

7. Can I use different chocolate toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to switch up the toppings, such as:

• Crushed Oreos
• Chocolate curls
• White chocolate chips
• Toffee bits
• Drizzled caramel

Make it as chocolate-loaded as you like!

8. What if I don’t have heavy cream for ganache?

You can substitute with half-and-half, but the ganache will be slightly thinner. Heavy cream gives the smoothest and richest texture.