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Moist Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe with Easy Decadent Ganache Filling

moist chocolate poke cake - featured image

A quick and easy chocolate poke cake made with a boxed mix and filled with a rich, luscious ganache that seeps into every bite, creating a moist and decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (about 15.25 oz / 432 g)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup water (240 ml)
  • ½ cup vegetable oil (120 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 8 oz (225 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 g), softened
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream or fresh berries for garnish
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1 cup water, ½ cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly using a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
  4. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  5. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes until warm but not hot.
  6. Using a wooden skewer or fork, poke holes all over the cake about 1 inch apart, deep enough to reach the bottom.
  7. In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup heavy cream just until it starts to simmer; do not boil. Remove from heat and pour over 8 oz chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.
  8. Stir in 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter until fully incorporated.
  9. Pour the ganache evenly over the poked cake, letting it sink into the holes. Use a spatula to spread any remaining ganache over the surface.
  10. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the ganache set and flavors meld.
  11. Serve as is or with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.

Notes

Poke holes while the cake is warm to allow ganache to seep deeper. Heat ganache gently to keep it pourable but not runny. Let cake chill for best ganache set and flavor melding. Variations include adding salted caramel, espresso powder, or making vegan/dairy-free substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate poke cake, ganache filling, easy chocolate cake, moist chocolate cake, poke cake recipe, chocolate dessert, quick chocolate cake