Name: Decadent Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake You’ll Love to Make
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 1 box Chocolate Cake Mix (Boxed or homemade); 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (For sweetness and moisture); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Can substitute with dark chocolate); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Or coconut cream for dairy-free); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adjust to taste); 1 jar Marshmallow Fluff (Or melted marshmallows)

As I rummaged through the pantry, hunting for the perfect sweet fix, I stumbled upon a timeless classic: chocolate cake mix. It was calling my name! That’s when the idea for the Ultimate Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake sparked into life. This dessert is more than just a cake; it’s a delightful oasis of flavors with rich chocolate ganache seeping into every tender bite. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to choice for gatherings or simply when you need a touch of sweetness in your day. Not only is it sure to please chocolate lovers, but it also offers the delightful surprise of marshmallow fluff topping that adds a lightness to each slice. Are you ready to dive into the sweet world of this delicious poke cake?

Why is this cake a must-try?

Decadent flavors abound in this Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake, featuring layers of rich chocolate ganache that permeate every bite. Simplicity reigns, as you can use boxed cake mix or even whip up a homemade version for an extra special touch. Crowd-pleasing appeal ensures that it’s perfect for parties or cozy family nights. Light and fluffy marshmallow topping brings a delightful balance to the rich chocolate, making it a dessert that surprises and delights. Don’t forget, you can switch things up with your favorite toppings, much like with my Gluten Free Chocolate or Chocolate Avocado Truffles.

Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Chocolate Cake Mix – This serves as the foundation for your dessert; feel free to substitute with a homemade chocolate cake for a personal touch.

For the Ganache
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds that delicious sweetness and moisture depth; it’s hard to replicate this, but homemade chocolate pudding can work in a pinch.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – These contribute to a rich ganache; swap for dark chocolate if you’re aiming for a less sugary version.

For the Topping
• Heavy Cream – Essential for creating the whipped topping and ganache; use coconut cream if you desire a dairy-free option.
• Powdered Sugar – This ingredient sweetens the whipped topping; adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
• Marshmallow Fluff – Offers a delightful, light topping; you can use melted marshmallows if fluff is out of reach.

Enjoy the delightful process of making your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake, and watch it become a favorite at every gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, mixing until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Poke Holes
Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to gently poke holes throughout the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. The holes should be deep but not all the way to the bottom, allowing the chocolate ganache to seep into the cake. This step is crucial for creating a flavorful Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake, so take your time!

Step 3: Make the Ganache
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and all the chocolate has melted, about 5 minutes. Once ready, pour the ganache evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it fills all the holes and seeps into the cake, creating a rich, chocolatey experience.

Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, add the heavy cream and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3–5 minutes. The whipped cream will be light and fluffy, forming the perfect base for the topping of your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake.

Step 5: Combine Toppings
With a spatula, gently fold the marshmallow fluff into the whipped cream until fully combined. This will create a light and airy topping that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate ganache. Once incorporated, spread this delicious mixture evenly over the cooled cake, ensuring every bite is light and fluffy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, drizzle any remaining chocolate ganache over the top of the marshmallow whipped cream. This gives your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake an appealing look and extra chocolate flavor. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the ganache to set fully.

What to Serve with Ultimate Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake

A delightful array of accompaniments can elevate your sweet creation to a full and memorable meal experience.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing enhances the rich chocolate flavors, adding a creamy contrast that melts beautifully on warm cake.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries bring a burst of freshness and tartness, balancing the sweetness of the poke cake.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels: For added crunch, these salty-sweet treats provide a perfect texture contrast to the moist cake and fluffy topping.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate and complements the rich flavors without overpowering them.
Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side mirrors the fluffy topping and adds a luxurious finish to each bite.
Smoky Chipotle Hot Chocolate: Warm your soul with this unexpected pairing. The subtle heat from the chipotle adds depth, enhancing the chocolate experience.
Your Favorite Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee pairs perfectly, its bitter notes balancing the sweetness and enhancing the chocolate flavor in the cake.
Chocolate Mousse: For the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream, a side of rich chocolate mousse mirrors the cake’s textures while adding an impressive flourish to your dessert spread.

Make Ahead Options

These Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cakes are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time while delighting their families! You can prep the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and poke holes as instructed, then allow it to cool. The ganache can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pour the ganache over the cake, whip the cream, and fold in the marshmallow fluff. This approach ensures your cake remains just as delicious, with flavors fully developed by the time you’re ready to enjoy it.

Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your cake with these delectable twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a luscious, non-dairy whipped topping. This adds a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate!
Different Cake Flavor: Swap out the chocolate cake for a vanilla or strawberry cake mix. This will create a delightful base that really highlights the ganache and marshmallow topping.
Fruity Surprise: Add fresh fruit, like strawberries or bananas, on top of the final cake. They provide a lovely contrast to the rich chocolate, adding freshness with each bite.
Crunchy Texture: Sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers over the marshmallow topping for added texture. This gives a wonderful crunch that complements the fluffy layers.
Nutty Twist: Fold in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the ganache for a delightful crunch. Nuts bring a lovely richness that enhances the overall flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the ganache for a mild heat that pairs surprisingly well with chocolate. It’s an unexpected but delicious twist!
Layered Delight: Create a layered version by dividing the cake into two layers. Spread the filling and toppings in the middle for each bite to be a taste extravaganza!
Extra Ganache: Prepare a double batch of ganache for an additional drizzle on top. The more chocolate, the merrier! You can use the extra for dipping fruit or pouring over other desserts, too.

Experimenting with the variations will turn your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake into a new masterpiece, just like my Red Velvet Cake or Swirl Bundt Cake. Enjoy baking!

Expert Tips for Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake

Perfect Poking Technique: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to create holes about 1 inch apart. This ensures better absorption of the ganache, enhancing the richness of your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake.
Whip Properly: Aim for stiff peaks when whipping the heavy cream. This will give your topping a light and airy texture, balancing the cake’s dense chocolate layers perfectly.
Cool Before Topping: Make sure the ganache has slightly cooled and thickened before pouring it over the cake. This allows for better soaking without making the cake too soggy.
Chill for Flavor: For the best taste, refrigerate the cake overnight. This allows the chocolate ganache to fully soak into the cake, creating a moister and more flavorful dessert.
Customization Ideas: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! Substitute the chocolate cake mix with vanilla for a twist, or add fresh berries on top for a delightful touch.

Storage Tips for Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake

Fridge: Keep your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to store it for longer, freeze the cake without the topping in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cake a day in advance, as this helps the ganache soak in and enhances the flavors. Just cover it well in the fridge!

Reheating: If desired, serve each slice chilled or at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat it!

Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of cake mix should I use?
You can use any chocolate cake mix as your base for this Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, I often go for a homemade chocolate cake recipe for a personal touch, but a boxed mix makes it super easy and convenient for busy days!

How do I know when my cake is done baking?
To check if your cake is ready, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is finished baking. This usually takes about 30–35 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

How do I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store your Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s well covered to maintain its moisture. I usually place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the topping to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for longer storage! I recommend freezing it without the topping. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then add your marshmallow fluff topping.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Additionally, check labels on the cake mix and marshmallow fluff to ensure compliance with allergy needs. It’s always a good idea to create a safe and delicious dessert for everyone who gathers around the table!

Why is it essential to let the cake cool before adding the ganache?
Letting the cake cool is crucial for allowing the ganache to properly absorb into the cake without making it soggy. I usually wait about 10-15 minutes after baking before pouring the ganache on. This time allows the cake to set up just enough for that perfect bite!