Decadent Baileys Chocolate Poke Cake
Dive into the rich, indulgent world of chocolate and Irish Cream with this Baileys Chocolate Poke Cake. Moist chocolate cake is infused with a luscious Baileys and cocoa mixture, then topped with a creamy Baileys frosting for a dessert that’s perfect for any celebration or indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~2 hours (Chill Time: 1–2 hours)
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American-Irish Fusion
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
- 1/3 cup Baileys Irish Cream
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Optional Garnishes
- Chocolate curls or shavings
- Mini chocolate chips or sprinkles
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions, adding a splash of espresso powder for extra depth if desired. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
Step 2: Poke and Fill
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke evenly spaced holes across the cooled cake (about 1 inch apart).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and Baileys until smooth. Pour this mixture over the cake slowly, letting it seep into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours.
Step 3: Prepare Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes). Adjust consistency with a splash of heavy cream if needed.
Step 4: Frost and Garnish
- Spread the frosting evenly over the chilled cake using an offset spatula. Decorate with chocolate curls or mini chocolate chips for an elegant touch. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- For special occasions, garnish with fresh berries or edible gold dust.
Tips & Tricks
- Let the cake cool completely before poking holes to maintain its structure.
- Pour the filling gradually to avoid pooling on top.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder and Baileys for richer flavor.
Storage & Reheating
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Find it online: https://cakeshungry.com/baileys-chocolate-poke-cake/