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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chill – Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the pudding to set.
- 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.
- Top the Cake – Pour the warm ganache over the chilled cake and spread it evenly.
- 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