Description

If you’re a fan of the classic Boston Cream Pie, this Boston Cream Poke Cake is going to be your new favorite dessert. It combines the flavors of vanilla cake, creamy custard, and rich chocolate ganache in an easy-to-make poke cake format. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
• 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preparing the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. Use a 9x13-inch baking dish to bake the cake, as this size is perfect for a poke cake. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Pudding
While the cake is cooling, prepare the vanilla pudding. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 4 cups of cold milk until the mixture thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Once the pudding is ready, set it aside.

Step 3: Poke the Cake
After the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. The holes should be evenly spaced and go about three-quarters of the way down into the cake. This is what makes it a "poke cake" and allows the pudding to seep into the cake, adding flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Pour the Pudding
Pour the prepared vanilla pudding over the cake, making sure to spread it evenly so that it fills the holes. Use a spatula to gently press the pudding into the holes if needed. Once the cake is evenly covered with pudding, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the pudding to set and infuse the cake with flavor.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil. Remove the cream from the heat and pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 2 minutes, then whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Pour the Ganache
Once the cake has chilled and the pudding has set, pour the warm chocolate ganache over the top of the cake. Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly, ensuring it covers the entire surface of the cake. The ganache will harden slightly as it cools, forming a rich, chocolatey topping.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
After the ganache has set, your Boston Cream Poke Cake is ready to serve. Cut the cake into squares and enjoy the layers of moist cake, creamy pudding, and decadent chocolate ganache in every bite. This cake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips
Use Homemade Pudding: If you prefer, you can make homemade vanilla pudding instead of using instant pudding mix. It adds a bit more time to the process but can enhance the flavor of the cake.
Add a Vanilla Glaze: For an extra touch, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the chocolate ganache before serving.
Top with Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream to add a light, airy contrast to the rich cake.
Layered Variation: For a more traditional Boston Cream Pie feel, you can slice the cake in half horizontally, fill the middle with pudding, and then top with ganache.
Conclusion
This Boston Cream Poke Cake is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the classic Boston Cream Pie in a fun, crowd-friendly format. With its moist cake, creamy pudding filling, and rich chocolate ganache, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every sweet, indulgent bite!