Craving a decadent dessert that’s both simple and addictive? Look no further than the Butterfinger Poke Cake. This mouthwatering treat is a delightful twist on the classic poke cake recipe. With just a few key ingredients like yellow cake mix, caramel syrup, and crushed Butterfingers, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Poke cakes are known for their moist and flavorful nature, and this Butterfinger version is no exception. The combination of buttery cake, sweet caramel, and crunchy candy creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re preparing for a potluck or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this Butterfinger Poke Cake is sure to impress.
Discover the magic of this semihomemade dessert that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. Stay tuned for the full recipe to learn how to create this irresistible Butterfinger Poke Cake that’s bound to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- Yellow cake mix
- Eggs, vegetable oil (can be substituted with melted butter), water (can be substituted with milk)
Filling
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Crushed Butterfinger bars
- Heavy cream
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped topping or 12 ounces of thawed Cool Whip
- Remaining crushed Butterfinger bars for sprinkling
Equipment Needed
To make this scrumptious Butterfinger poke cake, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure everything comes together perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:
Baking Equipment:
- 9×13 baking pan
- Wooden spoon or straw for poking holes in the cake
- Non-stick cooking spray or homemade cake release
Mixing Equipment:
- Medium-sized bowl or large glass measuring cup with a spout for mixing the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce
- Mixing spoon or whisk for blending the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce
- Spatula for spreading the Cool Whip over the cake
- Knife for chopping the Butterfinger candy bars
Having these tools on hand will make the process of creating this delightful Butterfinger poke cake a breeze.
Instructions
Preparing the Cake Base
- Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish with nonstick spray or use homemade cake release. Set it aside.
- Prepare the cake batter as per the instructions and ingredients on the box. Pour it into the prepared pan and bake as directed.
Creating Holes and Adding Filling
- While the cake is baking, mix the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce in a bowl until uniform.
- Once the cake is out of the oven and still hot, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes in the cake. Keep the holes about ¼ to ½ inches apart.
- Pour the prepared sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce over the hot cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Spread whipped cream or Cool Whip evenly over the chilled cake surface.
- Sprinkle the chopped Butterfinger candy bars on top of the whipped cream, covering the entire cake.
- Slice and serve immediately or chill briefly before serving. Enjoy the decadent Butterfinger poke cake!
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure the best results for your Butterfinger poke cake, I recommend following these helpful make-ahead tips:
- Advance Preparation: You can bake the cake base a day ahead to save time on the day you plan to serve the dessert. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious outcome.
- Overnight Setting: After adding the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce mixture to the cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This chilling period will allow the flavors to intensify and the cake to set properly.
- Whipped Cream Preparation: If you are using homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought Cool Whip, you can whip the cream ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just ensure it is well-covered to prevent any flavor transfer.
- Butterfinger Topping: For the Butterfinger candy bar topping, you can chop the candy bars in advance and store them in an airtight container. This step saves time when assembling the cake later.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can streamline the preparation process and enhance the flavors and texture of your Butterfinger poke cake.
Serving and Presentation
After you have prepared and chilled your delicious Butterfinger Poke Cake, it’s time to serve and present this delightful dessert to impress your guests. Here are a few simple steps to ensure a beautiful presentation and a memorable dining experience.
Step 1: Sprinkle Butterfinger Toppings
Just before serving, sprinkle the coarsely chopped Butterfinger candy bars on top of the chilled cake. This will add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the creamy texture of the cake. The colorful specks of Butterfinger will also enhance the visual appeal of your dessert.
Step 2: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the cake into neat squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Make sure to clean the knife between each slice to maintain clean edges. Arrange the pieces on a serving platter or individual dessert plates for a sophisticated presentation.
Step 3: Garnish and Enjoy
For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish each slice of Butterfinger Poke Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This additional decoration will elevate the dessert’s appearance and provide a luxurious finishing touch. Serve the cake chilled and encourage your guests to enjoy every bite of this delectable treat.
By following these simple steps, you can serve your Butterfinger Poke Cake with style and flair, delighting everyone who gathers around your table. Enjoy the combination of moist cake, creamy caramel, and crunchy Butterfinger as you savor each mouthful of this irresistible dessert.
Storage Instructions
After indulging in the delightful Butterfinger Poke Cake, it’s essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness and flavor. Here are some simple storage instructions to ensure your cake stays delicious:
- Refrigeration: Once the Butterfinger Poke Cake has been served and enjoyed, any remaining portions should be covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator to keep the cake moist and prevent it from drying out.
- Shelf Life: The Butterfinger Poke Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Beyond this time, the cake may start to lose its freshness, so it’s best to enjoy it within a few days of making.
- Freezing: If you have more cake than desired for immediate consumption, you can freeze individual slices or the entire cake for later enjoyment. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label the cake with the date and freeze for up to 1-2 months.
- Thawing: When ready to eat the frozen Butterfinger Poke Cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process will help retain the cake’s texture and prevent it from becoming too soggy.
By following these storage instructions, you can savor the deliciousness of your Butterfinger Poke Cake for longer periods and enjoy a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.
Conclusion
Creating Butterfinger Poke Cake is a delightful experience that brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures in each bite. With its easy preparation and versatile serving options, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering. By following the storage guidelines provided, you can enjoy the Butterfinger Poke Cake for days to come, maintaining its freshness and delicious taste. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a satisfying treat that will leave everyone craving for more. Try making this irresistible Butterfinger Poke Cake today and indulge in a dessert that is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying to eat.
