There’s something truly magical about a Boston Cream Poke Cake—it’s rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make! If you love the classic Boston cream pie but don’t want to fuss over layers and pastry cream, this poke cake is your dream come true. Moist vanilla cake, luscious vanilla pudding, and a glossy chocolate ganache come together in a dessert that’s both elegant and effortless.

This is the kind of cake that disappears fast at potlucks, family gatherings, and weeknight treats. So grab your baking dish, and let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Boston Cream Poke Cake

• Easy to Make – No fancy baking skills required!
• Perfectly Moist – The pudding filling keeps the cake soft and delicious.
• Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit at any event.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Even better after chilling overnight!

What Does a Boston Cream Poke Cake Taste Like?

Imagine a soft, fluffy vanilla cake soaked in silky vanilla pudding, all topped with a rich, glossy chocolate ganache. Every bite gives you that classic Boston cream flavor with minimal effort. It’s sweet but balanced, creamy yet light, and completely addictive!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)

For the Filling

• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix

For the Ganache

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Wooden spoon or straw (for poking holes)
• Microwave-safe bowl (for ganache)

How to Make Boston Cream Poke Cake

1. Bake the Cake

Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions and bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.

2. Poke Holes

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake. Make sure they are deep enough for the pudding to seep in.

3. Prepare the Pudding

Whisk together the cold milk and vanilla pudding mix until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes). Pour the pudding over the cake, spreading it evenly so it fills the holes.

4. Chill the Cake

Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the pudding to set.

5. Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling (about 45 seconds). Pour it over the chocolate chips, let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Add butter for extra shine if desired.

6. Add the Ganache

Pour the warm ganache over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly.

7. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for another hour (or overnight) to let the flavors meld. Slice and enjoy!

What to Serve with Boston Cream Poke Cake

This cake is rich and indulgent, so a light pairing works best:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Fresh berries for a refreshing contrast

Tips for the Best Boston Cream Poke Cake

• Don’t skip the chilling time! The pudding needs to set before adding the ganache.
• Make deeper holes so the pudding can soak in well.
• Use homemade pudding if you want a richer, from-scratch version.
• For a twist, try different cake flavors like white or chocolate!

How to Store Boston Cream Poke Cake

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?

Absolutely! Any light, fluffy vanilla or yellow cake recipe will work.

Can I use cook-and-serve pudding?

Yes, but you’ll need to let it cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.

How do I keep the ganache from getting too hard?

Use a little butter or corn syrup to keep it smooth and glossy.

This Boston Cream Poke Cake is a guaranteed hit, whether for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something sweet. Try it out and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear from you!

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to check out more easy dessert ideas like Decadent Strawberry Wet Cake, Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake, and Double Dark Chocolate Zucchini Bread.

And if you make it, share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your creations—tag me at Pinterest

Enjoy every bite! 🍰✨

Boston Cream Poke Cake Recipe: Decadent and Easy Dessert

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• Author: Poulef
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Boston Cream Poke Cake is a dream come true for dessert lovers! Made with a simple yellow cake mix, filled with silky vanilla pudding, and topped with rich chocolate ganache, this easy-to-make treat captures the classic flavors of a Boston cream pie with half the effort. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just because, this cake is best served chilled for a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

 

For the Cake:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)

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Instructions

 

1. Bake the Cake – Prepare and bake the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
2. Poke Holes – Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, making sure they are deep enough for the pudding to seep in.
3. Make the Pudding – Whisk together cold milk and vanilla pudding mix until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes). Pour the pudding over the cake, spreading it evenly so it fills the holes.
4. Chill – Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the pudding to set.
5. Make the Ganache – Heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling (about 45 seconds). Pour it over the chocolate chips, let it sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Add butter for extra shine if desired.
6. Top the Cake – Pour the warm ganache over the chilled cake and spread it evenly.
7. Chill Again & Serve – Refrigerate for another hour (or overnight) to let the flavors meld. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

• Make sure to poke deep holes so the pudding fully infuses the cake.
• Chill time is key! The longer it sits, the better the flavors come together.
• For a fun twist, swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or caramel pudding.
• If you prefer homemade cake, use your favorite from-scratch yellow cake recipe.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for later enjoyment.

• Prep Time: 20
• Cook Time: 120
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Boston cream poke cake, poke cake recipe, easy Boston cream cake, chocolate ganache cake, vanilla pudding cake