Indulge in the delightful fusion of minty freshness and rich chocolate decadence with this festive Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake recipe. Perfect for the holiday season, this moist and flavorful cake is a must-have for any Christmas celebration. The infusion of peppermint extract and sweetened condensed milk creates a luscious filling that seeps into every bite, complemented by a generous drizzle of hot fudge sauce for an extra dose of chocolate goodness.
This Peppermint Poke Cake is a true holiday treat, featuring a red velvet base soaked in a white chocolate peppermint pudding and topped with a fluffy layer of whipped cream and peppermint crunch baking chips. The subtle yet distinct peppermint flavor harmonizes beautifully with the creamy pudding and sweet whipped topping, making each bite a festive delight. Elevate your Christmas dessert spread with this easy-to-make and irresistibly delicious Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake.
Ingredients List
For the Cake
- 1 box chocolate fudge cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the box to make the cake
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
For the Peppermint Filling
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 jar hot fudge sauce (12 oz)
- 8 ounces container of whipped topping
- 12 drops green gel food coloring
- ½ teaspoon pure peppermint extract
Required Tools and Equipment
To create this delightful Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake recipe, you will need a few essential tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking process. Here’s what you will need:
Tools:
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk or Electric Mixer
- Spatula
- 13×9-inch Baking Pan
- Toothpick or Skewer for poking holes
- Serving Plate or Cake Stand
- Oven
- Hand or Stand Mixer
Having these tools and equipment on hand will make preparing and serving this scrumptious cake a breeze. Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of assembling this decadent Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Cake Batter
I start by following the instructions on the chocolate fudge cake mix box. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, I combine the cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil. Using a handheld mixer, I blend the ingredients on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and no dry lumps are visible.
Baking the Cake
Once the cake batter is well mixed, I pour it into a 9×13 inch baking dish that has been prepped with baking spray. The cake goes into a preheated oven set at 350°F and bakes for about 25-27 minutes. I check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Creating the Poke Cake
To create this delectable Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake, we need to focus on two key steps: making the peppermint filling and then poking holes in the cake to infuse it with delicious flavors.
Making the Peppermint Filling
First, prepare a decadent peppermint filling by mixing sweetened condensed milk with peppermint extract. This luscious filling will seep into the cake, giving it a delightful peppermint flavor that complements the rich chocolate base perfectly.
Next, add a layer of hot fudge sauce to intensify the chocolate goodness of the cake. This additional filling will elevate the taste and texture, creating a heavenly dessert experience for your taste buds.
Poking Holes and Filling
Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake. Pour the prepared peppermint filling onto the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes and gets absorbed, infusing each bite with a burst of minty sweetness.
Refrigerate the cake to let the flavors meld together, then top it with a generous layer of frozen whipped topping. Sprinkle peppermint crunch baking chips on top for a final touch of minty flavor and a delightful crunch in every bite.
By following these steps, you’ll create a show-stopping Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake that’s not only visually stunning but also a joy to eat during the holiday season or any special occasion.
Frosting and Decorating
Applying the Frosting
After preparing the cake with the peppermint filling and allowing it to set, the next step is applying the frosting. I prefer using a thick and creamy hot chocolate whipped cream for this cake. To make the whipped cream, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add hot chocolate mix and beat until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake for a decadent finish.
Adding Decorative Toppings
To enhance the visual appeal and flavor of the Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake, adding decorative toppings is key. After spreading the whipped cream, drizzle some hot fudge sauce on top for an extra layer of richness. Finally, sprinkle crushed Andes Peppermint Crunch on the cake to add a delightful minty crunch. These toppings not only make the cake look inviting but also elevate the taste to another level.
Make-Ahead Tips
When preparing this delightful Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake recipe, there are a few make-ahead tips that can help you save time and reduce stress on the day of serving. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable baking experience.
- Cake Preparation:
I recommend baking the cake portion of the recipe a day in advance. Once the cake has completely cooled, cover it securely with plastic wrap and store it at room temperature overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld and the cake to settle, resulting in a more delicious final product. - Pudding Layer:
If you are using homemade pudding for the cake, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. This will not only save you time on the day of assembly but will also allow the pudding to thicken and set properly. - Whipped Cream:
Similarly, if you plan to make your whipped cream from scratch, you can whip the cream and sweeten it in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the cake. This will save you time and ensure that the whipped cream holds its shape when decorating the cake. - Garnishes:
Lastly, if you are using Andes Peppermint Crunch or other garnishes, you can crush them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, you’ll have your garnishes ready to sprinkle over the cake when serving.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can streamline the preparation process and ensure that your Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake turns out perfectly when it’s time to impress your guests with this festive and delicious dessert.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve
To serve this decadent Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake, slice it into equal portions using a sharp knife. Carefully transfer each slice onto serving plates, ensuring to maintain the layers intact for a beautiful presentation. Sprinkle the top with chopped candy or peppermint crunch for added texture and festive flair. Once plated, cover the slices with a dome or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until ready to be served. This cake is best enjoyed chilled, allowing all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Storage Tips
To store leftover Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake, ensure it is covered securely with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to prevent any odors from the refrigerator from seeping into the cake. Store the cake in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 3-4 days while maintaining its freshness. It’s important to keep the cake refrigerated due to the dairy components in the layers. Before serving leftover cake, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for optimal texture. Enjoy the cake within a few days for the best taste and quality.
Conclusion
I hope this Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake recipe inspires you to add a delightful twist to your holiday dessert table. With its rich red velvet base, creamy peppermint filling, and decadent toppings, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily create a stunning and delicious treat that will impress your family and friends. Remember to plan ahead by making components in advance for a stress-free baking experience. Whether you’re serving this cake at a festive gathering or enjoying a slice at home, the combination of chocolate and peppermint flavors is a winning choice. Embrace the holiday spirit with this indulgent dessert that captures the essence of the season. Happy baking!