Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Boston Cream Poke Cake Recipe – 3 Easy Steps for a Decadent Dessert

Boston Cream Poke Cake Recipe: Decadent and Easy Dessert


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

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.


Ingredients

Scale

 

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)

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