Introduction

The Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a decadent treat that combines rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter and a luscious whipped topping. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for peanut butter lovers looking for a sweet, satisfying finish to any meal.

A square slice of layered dessert sits on a white plate with a white marbled texture background. The bottom layer is a dark, crumbly brownie base. Above that is a thick, creamy peanut butter layer with a smooth texture and light brown color. The top layer is a shiny, rich chocolate ganache that flows slightly over the edges. On top, there are many small peanut butter chips and dark chocolate chips, scattered evenly and adding texture and color contrast. Two peanut butter chips sit on the plate in front of the slice. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box (425 g) chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, and water)
1 cup (250 ml) creamy peanut butter
1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
0.5 cup (125 ml) creamy peanut butter, melted
1 container (8 oz / 225 g) whipped topping, thawed
0.5 cup (50 g) mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional)
0.5 cup (75 g) chopped Reese’s or peanut butter cups (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven according to the directions on the cake mix box. Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the cake mix as directed on the package, then stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Mix until smooth and pour into the prepared dish. Bake as instructed, typically 30–35 minutes.
Step 2: Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly across the surface, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and melted peanut butter until smooth and pourable. Slowly pour this mixture over the cake, letting it fill all the holes. Let the cake absorb the filling completely.
Step 4: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend and the filling to firm up slightly.
Step 5: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake using a spatula, covering the entire surface for a smooth layer.
Step 6: Sprinkle the top with mini chocolate chips and chopped peanut butter cups, if using, for extra flavor and crunch. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use allergen-free chocolate chips.
If mini chocolate chips are unavailable, chocolate shavings or small chunks work just as well for texture.
To intensify the peanut butter flavor, swirl an extra 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter into the whipped topping before spreading.
Allow the cake to chill overnight for an even richer flavor and better texture.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly covered to prevent the whipped topping from drying out. When ready to serve, slice and enjoy chilled. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping may lose its texture upon thawing.

How to Serve

The image shows a square piece of dessert with three visible layers placed on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark and dense, looking like chocolate cake or brownie. The middle layer is creamy light brown with a smooth texture and bit of chocolate pieces mixed in. The top layer is a thick, glossy dark chocolate ganache spread evenly. On top of this chocolate layer are scattered caramel-colored dollops and dark chocolate chips, adding texture and contrast. Two caramel dollops sit on the plate next to the dessert, enhancing the visual appeal. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Just be sure to bake it in a 9×13-inch dish and allow it to cool before poking holes and adding the filling.

What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips or peanut butter cups?

You can omit them or substitute with chopped nuts, regular chocolate chips, or chocolate shavings to add texture and flavor on top of the cake.