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Let me share my favorite winter dessert with you this Hot Chocolate Poke Cake! I first made it during a cozy holiday season and now my family begs for it every year. It's like having your favorite mug of hot cocoa transformed into the most amazing cake with marshmallow filling and the fluffiest hot chocolate topping. Trust me once you try this you'll be hooked.
Perfect Winter Comfort
There's something magical about combining the flavors of hot chocolate with cake. Every time I make this the house fills with the most incredible chocolate aroma. It's simple enough for a random Tuesday night treat but special enough for holiday gatherings. My kids' faces light up when they see those mini marshmallows on top.
What You'll Need
- Cake Mix: 1 box milk chocolate plus what's listed on the box.
- Vanilla: 1 teaspoon makes everything better.
- Marshmallow Creme: 7 ounces for that gooey filling.
- Whipped Topping: 8 ounces thawed completely.
- Hot Cocoa Mix: ½ cup about 2 packets don't make the drink!
- Mini Marshmallows: 1½ cups because more is better.
- Chocolate Syrup: For drizzling pure happiness.
Let's Bake Together
- Start With The Cake
- Mix up your cake according to the box but here's my secret add a teaspoon of vanilla it makes boxed mix taste homemade.
- Bake It Up
- Pour it in your greased 9x13 pan and bake until perfect. I always set my timer a few minutes early just to check.
- The Fun Part
- While it's still warm poke those holes with a wooden spoon handle. Then comes the best part filling each one with marshmallow creme. I use a piping bag it's less messy.
- Make It Pretty
- Mix that hot cocoa powder into your whipped topping spread it all over and watch the magic happen. Add marshmallows now if you want them soft later if you like them firmer.
- Time to Chill
- Cover it up and let it rest in the fridge at least 6 hours. I usually make it the night before it's even better the next day.
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Why We Love It
This isn't just any chocolate cake it's like capturing everything wonderful about hot cocoa in each bite. The marshmallow creme finds its way into every hole creating these pockets of sweet surprise while that hot chocolate topping tastes just like the real thing.
Keep It Fresh
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers they'll stay perfect in the fridge for about three days. The marshmallow filling actually helps keep everything super moist. I like storing individual pieces in containers makes it easy to grab one for a quick treat.
Perfect For Sharing
Every time I bring this to a gathering people go crazy for it. There's something about those marshmallows on top that makes everyone feel like a kid again. Plus it serves a crowd which makes it perfect for holiday parties or family get togethers.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I'll crush up candy canes on top during the holidays or add chocolate shavings when I'm feeling fancy. My kids love helping decorate it and honestly you can't go wrong whatever toppings you choose it's all delicious.
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Tips From My Kitchen
Make sure to poke those holes while the cake is still warm the marshmallow creme will sink in better. If your creme is too stiff give it a quick zap in the microwave. And don't skimp on the chocolate if you love rich flavor try using dark chocolate cake mix.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I use different flavored hot cocoa mixes mint is amazing during the holidays. You can even swirl some peanut butter into the topping or use a different cake mix as your base. The possibilities are endless.
Everyone's Favorite
This cake brings out the kid in everyone. The look on people's faces when they take that first bite is priceless. It's become our traditional winter birthday cake and holiday dessert nothing says cozy quite like it.
Make Ahead Magic
I love that I can break up the prep over two days. Usually I'll bake the cake at night then add the toppings in the morning. It actually tastes better when it has time to chill and let all those flavors come together.
Serve It Right
My favorite way to serve this is alongside a real cup of hot cocoa though some say that's chocolate overload! A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is amazing too it balances out all that richness perfectly.
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Pure Joy In Every Bite
This Hot Chocolate Poke Cake has become more than just a dessert in our house it's a tradition. There's something so special about taking everyone's favorite winter drink and turning it into a slice of pure happiness. I hope it becomes a favorite in your family too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do I need to chill the cake for 6 hours?
- The chill time allows flavors to blend together and the cake to set properly. The cake tastes much better after it's been thoroughly chilled, so don't skip this important step.
- → Can I make my own whipped topping?
- Yes, whip 3 cups heavy cream with the hot cocoa mix until stiff peaks form, about 4-5 minutes. This homemade version works just as well as store-bought Cool Whip.
- → When should I add the marshmallow topping?
- Add marshmallows before chilling for a softer, velvety texture, or after chilling for traditional marshmallow texture. Both ways work well - it's just personal preference.
- → What kind of hot cocoa mix should I use?
- Use classic chocolate hot cocoa mix powder, not prepared hot chocolate. Two standard packets equals the needed half cup. Use only the dry powder for best results.
- → How do I ensure even filling distribution?
- Make holes about 1-inch apart in even rows across the cake. This spacing ensures the marshmallow filling spreads evenly throughout the cake.