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Easy Boston Cream Poke Cake: A Heavenly Dessert You Can’t Resist

Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with our irresistible Boston Cream Poke Cake recipe. This heavenly treat combines the best of a classic yellow butter cake, a luscious French vanilla cream pudding filling, and a decadent rich chocolate ganache frosting. Why choose between a cake and a pie when you can savor both in one delightful creation? Our Boston Cream Poke Cake offers all the iconic flavors of a traditional Boston Cream Pie in an incredibly easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing format.

Prepare to fall in love with the harmonious blend of textures and tastes that make this dessert truly unforgettable. If you’re a fan of elegant yet simple desserts, you’ll also adore our Boston Cream Cupcakes and exploring a collection of 20 Heavenly Layered Desserts for more inspiration!

Why You’ll Adore Our Easy Boston Cream Poke Cake Recipe

This dessert isn’t just delicious; it’s a triumph of simplicity and flavor that guarantees smiles. Here’s why our Boston Cream Poke Cake will quickly become a favorite in your household:

Unmatched Flavor Profile: Who can resist the classic combination of moist yellow cake, creamy vanilla custard, and smooth chocolate? Each spoonful delivers a symphony of flavors reminiscent of the beloved Boston Cream Pie. The creamy custard seeps into every crevice, ensuring a tender and intensely flavorful bite every time.
Effortless Preparation: Forget complicated baking techniques! This recipe leverages simple ingredients like a yellow cake mix and instant pudding, making it incredibly accessible for bakers of all skill levels. We even offer two convenient options for the chocolate topping, ensuring you can whip up this dessert with minimal fuss and maximum impact.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual potluck, a lively party, a special after-dinner treat, or simply a craving for something homemade and delicious, this poke cake fits the bill. Its elegant appearance belies its ease of preparation, making it a guaranteed hit that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
A Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: The classic appeal of Boston cream, combined with the fun and moist texture of a poke cake, makes this dessert universally loved. Your taste buds, friends, and family will thank you for this slice of pure heaven.

Unveiling the Magic of Poke Cakes

If you’re new to the world of poke cakes, prepare to be amazed! Poke cakes are a delightful dessert innovation where a freshly baked cake is generously perforated with holes. These holes are then filled with an array of luscious liquids, such as puddings, sauces, or syrups, before being topped with a decadent frosting, ganache, or whipped cream. The result is an incredibly tender cake infused with rich moisture and bursting with flavor in every bite – a truly indulgent experience.

Our Boston Cream Poke Cake exemplifies this concept perfectly, transforming a simple yellow cake into an elegant dessert with minimal fuss. It’s not just about the convenience; it’s about creating an unforgettable dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering. From the light, buttery texture of the yellow cake to the dreamy, custardy vanilla filling and the rich chocolate topping, this cake truly has it all. It’s no wonder it’s one of our absolute favorites!

We are absolutely smitten with poke cakes and the endless possibilities they offer. You might also enjoy our Strawberry Creme Passion Poke Cake, the indulgent Reese’s Peanut Butter Devil’s Food Chocolate Poke Cake, the sinfully rich Sinful Triple Chocolate Fudge Poke Cake, and this incredible collection of 25 Dreamy Pudding Poke Cakes You Shouldn’t Live Without!

This particular Boston Cream Poke Cake recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it’s one of my husband’s all-time favorite desserts. When I made it just for him, the pure happiness on his face was infectious, making me happy too! He managed to devour most of it himself within three days, though thankfully, I did snag a few delightful nibbles. Since it was made with him in mind, it’s only fair he enjoyed the lion’s share, right? Sometimes, it’s just better to let it go and cherish the sweet moments.

The Sweet History of Boston Cream Pie

While our Boston Cream Poke Cake is a modern, simplified take, its roots trace back to a classic American dessert with a rich history. The original Boston Cream Pie, a simple yet luscious dessert, was famously created by Armenian-French chef M. Sanzian at Boston’s Parker House Hotel in 1856. It quickly rose to prominence and holds the esteemed title of the official dessert of Massachusetts!

The original Boston Cream Pie was a delightful combination: two layers of light sponge cake, generously filled with a creamy vanilla custard, and elegantly topped with a rich chocolate ganache. It was, and still is, a dessert to be savored. Our poke cake version captures that same iconic flavor profile with an added layer of moistness and ease of preparation.

If you’re a devoted Boston Cream fan, you’ll also adore these light and fluffy pudding-filled Heavenly Boston Cream Puffs!

How Long Does It Take to Make a Poke Cake?

One of the many beauties of this sinfully delicious treat is its efficiency. This easy twist on the classic Boston Cream Pie can be assembled in approximately 20 minutes, not including the cake baking time. This makes it an ideal dessert for those moments when you crave something extraordinary without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a scrumptious dessert that will quickly satisfy your sweet tooth and impress any guest.

This Boston Cream Poke Cake is not only easier to make than a traditional Boston Cream Pie, but many argue it’s even more delicious, thanks to the pudding-infused moistness. Are you ready to embark on this delightful baking adventure?

Essential Ingredients for Your Easy Boston Cream Poke Cake

Crafting this incredible dessert requires just a few readily available ingredients. The magic happens when these simple components come together, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Yellow Cake

1 box yellow butter recipe cake mix, plus the ingredients required to prepare it (typically eggs, oil, and water/milk). Opt for a high-quality mix for the best flavor base.

For the Creamy Pudding Filling

2 small boxes (approximately 3.4 oz each) French Vanilla instant pudding mix. You can also use regular vanilla pudding or a pudding flavor of your choice to customize. Remember to have the ingredients to prepare the pudding (usually milk). If you prefer a less intensely pudding-filled cake, one box of pudding will suffice.

Your Choice of Decadent Chocolate Frosting

To top off your Boston Cream Poke Cake, you have two fantastic options for the chocolate layer:

Option 1: Quick & Easy Pre-Made Chocolate Frosting

1 tub (approximately 16 oz) pre-made chocolate fudge frosting. This option saves time and delivers a consistently delicious chocolate flavor.

Option 2: Homemade Rich Chocolate Ganache

For an extra touch of gourmet indulgence, making your own chocolate ganache is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding.

1 cup (approximately 8 oz or 1 1/3 cups) semi-sweet chocolate chips or a finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate bar. If you desire a thicker, more generous ganache, increase this to 12 oz (or 1 ½ cups) chocolate chips/chopped bar.
1 cup heavy whipping cream. If you use 12 oz of chocolate chips, increase the heavy whipping cream by ¼ to ⅓ cup to maintain the perfect consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Create Your Boston Cream Poke Cake

Follow these straightforward steps to create a show-stopping Boston Cream Poke Cake that will have everyone asking for more!

Preparing the Yellow Cake

Preheat your oven and prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch baking pan that has been greased and floured (or lined with parchment paper).
Bake the cake as instructed on the box. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. It’s important for the cake to still be warm when you poke the holes.

Crafting the Creamy Pudding Filling

While your cake is cooling slightly, prepare the instant pudding mix. Follow the package instructions carefully, usually whisking the mix with cold milk until it begins to thicken. Do this after the cake has baked to ensure the pudding is fresh and ready to go.

The Art of Poking and Filling Your Cake

This is where the “poke” cake magic happens! The technique is simple but crucial for infusing your cake with the creamy vanilla goodness.

Once the cake is still warm but cool enough to handle, use the round handle of a wooden spoon or a similar utensil (like a large straw) to poke holes randomly across the entire top surface of the cake. Aim for holes about an inch apart, making sure they go nearly all the way to the bottom without piercing through.
Now, decide on your pudding preference. You can use one or two packages of prepared French vanilla pudding, depending on how rich and custardy you want your cake to be.
Carefully pour and spread about half of the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the warm, poked cake. Gently push the pudding into each hole with the back of a spoon or spatula, ensuring it seeps down into the cake.
Next, spread the remaining pudding over the entire surface of the cake, creating a smooth, even layer. Make sure to leave enough space at the top for your chosen chocolate frosting layer.
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 ½ to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the pudding to fully set and absorb into the cake, creating that incredibly moist texture.

Adding the Perfect Chocolate Topping: Two Delicious Options

Once your cake is chilled and the pudding has set, it’s time for the crowning glory – the chocolate layer!

Option 1: Using Pre-Made Chocolate Frosting for Ease

Remove the lid and foil seal from your tub of pre-made chocolate frosting. Microwave the frosting in 10-15 second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until it becomes smooth and pourable. Be cautious not to overheat or boil the frosting, as this can cause it to separate and become runny. The goal is a glossy, spreadable glaze.
Carefully pour or spread the warm chocolate glaze over the chilled pudding layer of your cake, allowing it to evenly coat the top.
Return the cake to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the chocolate frosting to set and the flavors to fully meld.

Option 2: Crafting Homemade Chocolate Ganache Frosting

For a truly luxurious finish, a homemade chocolate ganache is unmatched. This rich, velvety topping is surprisingly easy to make and elevates the dessert beautifully.

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped bar) and heavy cream. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, then stir thoroughly. Continue to heat in additional 1-2 minute intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Whisk gently until the ganache is well incorporated and velvety.
Allow the ganache to cool for about 5-10 minutes. It should still be pourable but slightly thickened. Ensure your pudding layer on the cake is fully set before adding the ganache.
Pour the slightly cooled ganache over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly to cover the pudding layer. The ganache will continue to thicken as it cools completely, becoming a rich, fudgy topping.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the ganache to set perfectly and for all the flavors to deepen.

Storing Your Easy Boston Cream Poke Cake

To keep your Boston Cream Poke Cake fresh and delicious, proper storage is key:

Always store poke cakes in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This prevents the cake from drying out and absorbing other odors.
The cake will last beautifully for 2-3 days after you make it. In fact, many people find it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld and the pudding fully saturates the cake.
Any leftovers should always be refrigerated promptly after serving.

This Boston Cream Poke Cake recipe is sure to impress all your dinner guests and make any day feel special. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary desserts. You might also want to explore these 25 Slices of Summer Heavenly Desserts and 45 Awesome Easter & Spring Desserts for more delectable ideas!

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the delightful world of poke cakes and try this Boston Cream Poke Cake today. Let your taste buds be the judge – we’re confident they’ll give it a resounding seal of approval!

More Heavenly Desserts to Explore!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out these other fantastic desserts from our collection:

Overnight Cinnamon French Toast Bake
Strawberry Ice Box Cake
20 Heavenly Layered Desserts
No-Bake Strawberry Eclair Cake
Pumpkin French Toast
Death By Chocolate Poke Cake

Easy Boston Cream Poke Cake Recipe

Summary: This Easy Boston Cream Poke Cake features a moist yellow butter cake filled with creamy French vanilla instant pudding and topped with a rich chocolate ganache. It’s a heavenly dessert that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion, combining the best of cake and Boston Cream Pie.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Chilling Time: 1 hr 30 mins (plus 4 hours or overnight for frosting to set)
Course: Dessert
Servings: 12
Keywords: Boston Cream, cake, cake mix, poke cake, pudding, easy dessert, chocolate ganache

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box yellow butter recipe cake mix & ingredients to make (e.g., eggs, oil, water/milk)

For the Pudding Filling

2 small boxes (approx. 3.4 oz each) French Vanilla instant pudding mix or pudding of your choice & ingredients to make (typically milk). (If you prefer less pudding, use 1 box instead of 2.)

Chocolate Frosting Options

Option 1: Pre-Made Chocolate Frosting

1 tub (approx. 16 oz) chocolate fudge frosting

Option 2: Homemade Chocolate Ganache

1 cup (approx. ½ lb or 1 ⅓ cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips/chopped bar. (For more ganache, use 12 oz or 1 ½ cups chocolate chips/chopped bar.)
1 cup heavy whipping cream. (Add ¼ to ⅓ cup more heavy whipping cream if using 12 oz chocolate chips instead of 8 oz.)

Instructions

Preparing the Yellow Cake

Preheat oven and prepare cake mix according to package directions. Pour into a greased and floured 9×13 inch baking pan.
Bake cake as directed on the box. Let cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes until warm.

Preparing the Pudding

While the cake cools, prepare the instant pudding mix according to package instructions, typically whisking with cold milk until it thickens.

How to Poke and Fill the Cake

While the cake is still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon or similar utensil to poke holes randomly across the cake surface, about an inch apart, going almost to the bottom.
Decide whether to use 1 or 2 packages of prepared pudding.
Spread about half of the pudding mixture over the cake, gently pushing it into the holes. Then, spread the remaining pudding evenly over the top, leaving enough room for frosting.
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 ½ – 2 hours to allow the pudding to set.

Applying the Chocolate Topping (Choose one option)

Option 1: Using Pre-Made Chocolate Frosting

Remove the lid and seal from the chocolate frosting tub. Microwave in 10-15 second intervals, stirring between each, until the frosting becomes pourable. Avoid overheating to prevent separation.
Spread the warm chocolate glaze evenly over the chilled cake.
Refrigerate the cake for an additional 4 hours or overnight until the frosting is set.

Option 2: Making Homemade Chocolate Ganache Frosting

Combine chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 2 minutes, then stir. Continue heating in 1-2 minute intervals until the chocolate is fully melted and whisk until the mixture is velvety and smooth.
Let the ganache cool for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable. Ensure the pudding on the cake is fully set before applying.
Pour the ganache over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly. The ganache will thicken as it cools, becoming rich and fudgy.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the ganache to set properly.