There’s something about a warm slice of cake that feels like a hug, right? This Hot Chocolate Poke Cake is one of those desserts that whisk you back to childhood memories, where the aroma of chocolate filled the air and family gathered around the kitchen table. It’s a sweet tradition, a cozy treat, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is a bit of warmth and love.
Why make this recipe? Well, let me tell you, this delightful cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a cherished memory waiting to happen. With layers of rich chocolate and fluffy marshmallow goodness, it’s the kind of treat that brings everyone together, evoking laughter and sweet stories shared over a slice. Just imagine cutting into this cake, your fork sinking into that marshmallow-filled goodness, and taking that first bite—it’s pure joy!
How to make Hot Chocolate Poke Cake? It’s simpler than you might think, and the results are beyond divine!
Ingredients
- 1 box dark chocolate cake mix, ingredients needed to make the cake: eggs, oil, and water (use the amounts on the back of the box)
- 2 (10 ounce) bags mini marshmallows
- 5 tablespoons salted butter (can use unsalted if you prefer)
- 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream (or Cool Whip)
- ¼ cup (2 packets) hot chocolate mix
- Mini marshmallows, for garnish
- Chocolate syrup, for garnish
- Mini chocolate chips, for garnish
Directions
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Start by preparing that box of dark chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, using the fresh eggs, oil, and water. Pour that luscious batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan, smoothing it out to make it just perfect. Bake the cake according to those package instructions, and while it’s baking, take a moment to breathe in that sweet, chocolatey aroma filling your home.
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Once your cake is baked and cooled just a bit, take a wooden spoon (or anything with a round end) and poke holes all over the cake. These holes are vital—they’re going to make sure that marshmallow goodness seeps down into every delightful bite.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the two bags of mini marshmallows with the butter, stirring constantly until it’s melted and smooth. Pour this warm marshmallow mixture all over your lovely cake, making sure to fill those holes generously. You might want to sneak a spoonful—just saying!
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Now, in another bowl, whisk together the cold heavy whipping cream and hot chocolate mix until you see those stiff peaks forming—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. A stand mixer with the whisk attachment makes this part a breeze, just like your grandma’s old mixer made baking look effortless.
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Gently frost your cake with the whipped hot chocolate cream, covering it lovingly as if you’re tucking it in for a cozy nap. Don’t forget! Let this beauty rest in the refrigerator for a few hours. This waiting game allows the cake to soak up all that dreamy marshmallow fluff before serving.
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Just before you’re ready to serve, give it a beautiful drizzle of chocolate syrup and a sprinkle of mini marshmallows and mini chocolate chips for that extra dash of magic!
How to serve Hot Chocolate Poke Cake
Slice into this beauty and serve it chilled or slightly warmed—both options are delightful. Pair it with a steaming cup of cocoa or coffee, and watch smiles bloom around the table.
How to store Hot Chocolate Poke Cake
Store leftover cake (if there is any!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious and moist for about 3-4 days—if it lasts that long!
Tips to make Hot Chocolate Poke Cake
- Don’t rush poking the holes; make sure they’re deep enough to let that marshmallow delight soak in.
- Feel free to play with toppings—crushed peppermint candies around the holidays can add a festive touch!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the dark chocolate cake mix for a vanilla or red velvet mix. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade dark chocolate cake will work perfectly if you have a great recipe you love. Just make sure to poke those holes!
2. Can I use other types of marshmallows?
Of course! While mini marshmallows are traditional, you can use any soft marshmallow variety, just chop them up if they’re bigger.
3. Is this cake kid-friendly?
Without a doubt! Kids will love the fun of the marshmallow surprise inside, and it’s a great way to make baking memories together!
As you gather the ingredients to make this lovely Hot Chocolate Poke Cake, may your kitchen be filled with the warmth of nostalgia and the laughter of loved ones. There’s truly something special about sharing a cake—each slice is a moment to celebrate, a reason to gather together, savoring life’s sweetest simple pleasures. So go on and whip up this delightful treat, and remember, the best recipes are the ones that bring people together. Happy baking, y’all!
Hot Chocolate Poke Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven and prepare the box of dark chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan and bake as instructed on the package.
- Once the cake is baked, poke holes all over the top using a wooden spoon.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the mini marshmallows with the butter until smooth.
- Pour the marshmallow mixture over the cake, making sure to fill the holes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the cold heavy whipping cream and hot chocolate mix until stiff peaks form.
- Frost the cake generously with the whipped cream mixture.
- Refrigerate for a few hours to let the cake soak up the marshmallow.
- Before serving, drizzle chocolate syrup and sprinkle mini marshmallows and mini chocolate chips on top.
- Serve chilled or slightly warmed, paired with hot cocoa or coffee.