Boston Cream Poke Cake

Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic Boston Cream Pie. This easy-to-make dessert features a moist yellow cake infused with creamy vanilla pudding and topped with a rich chocolate ganache. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home, this cake combines simplicity with indulgent flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Utilizes a boxed cake mix and instant pudding for quick assembly.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of moist cake, creamy pudding, and chocolate ganache offers a decadent taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties and gatherings, sure to impress guests.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different pudding flavors or toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Yellow cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box, such as eggs, water, and oil)
• Instant vanilla pudding mix
• Whole milk
• Vanilla extract
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Heavy whipping cream
• Corn syrup or butter (optional, for ganache)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake: Bake the yellow cake mix according to package instructions in a 9×13-inch pan. Allow the cake to cool completely.
2. Poke Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cooled cake.
3. Prepare the Pudding: In a bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth but not fully set.
4. Fill the Cake: Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Gently spread the pudding evenly over the surface.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the pudding to set.
6. Prepare the Ganache: In a heatproof bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and corn syrup or butter. Heat heavy whipping cream until it simmers, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool for about 10 minutes.
7. Top the Cake: Pour the ganache over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly.
8. Final Chill: Refrigerate the cake for an additional 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12–16 slices
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Chilling Time: At least 5 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 6 hours

Variations

• Pudding Flavors: Substitute vanilla pudding with French vanilla or chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Ganache Alternatives: Use store-bought chocolate frosting for convenience.
• Toppings: Garnish with whipped cream or fresh berries for added flair.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Best enjoyed cold; reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a baked cake that’s poked with holes after baking, allowing fillings like pudding or syrup to seep into the cake, adding flavor and moisture.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes, homemade pudding can be used, but ensure it’s slightly cooled and pourable to fill the cake holes effectively.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake overnight?

Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

How do I prevent the ganache from becoming too thick?

Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring, but not so much that it hardens. If it thickens too much, gently reheat to achieve a pourable consistency.

Can I add fruit to this cake?

Yes, layering sliced bananas or strawberries between the pudding and ganache adds a fresh twist.

What can I use instead of corn syrup in the ganache?

Butter is a suitable substitute for corn syrup in the ganache, providing a rich flavor and smooth texture.

How deep should I poke the holes in the cake?

Poke holes about two-thirds deep into the cake to allow the pudding to fill without compromising the cake’s structure.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, milk or dark chocolate can be used based on personal preference.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, the cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Boston Cream Poke Cake offers a delightful combination of moist cake, creamy pudding, and rich chocolate ganache, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Its simple preparation and indulgent flavors are sure to impress both family and guests alike. Enjoy this easy-to-make treat that brings the classic Boston Cream Pie flavors to your table with minimal effort.

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