Triple Chocolate Poke Cake
Indulging in a slice of chocolate cake is an experience that can lift any mood. Now, imagine that cake infused with layers of rich chocolate flavors, topped off with a decadent chocolate sauce. This is where our Triple Chocolate Poke Cake comes in—a glorious creation that combines the comfort of a classic chocolate cake with the delightful surprise of chocolate puddles throughout. Perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or just a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Top Reasons to Make Triple Chocolate Poke Cake
- Chocolate Lovers Delight: With three different forms of chocolate, this cake is a dream come true for any chocolate enthusiast.
- Easy to Make: The poke cake method allows for a simple preparation process, making it perfect even for novice bakers.
- Impressive Presentation: The chocolate sauce seeps into the cake, creating a beautiful marbled effect that is visually stunning.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the toppings and fillings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Make Ahead: This cake can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for parties or potlucks.
What We’re Using
- 1 ½ cups flour: The foundation for our cake, providing structure and stability.
- 1 ½ cups sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa: The star ingredient that gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for a perfect texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 eggs: Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 cup coffee, cooled: Amplifies the chocolate flavor while keeping the cake moist.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and tenderizes the cake.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Contributes to the moistness and helps keep the cake soft.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
Equipment & Tools
- 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for this poke cake, allowing it to bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the batter smoothly.
- Skewers or a fork: For poking holes in the cake to allow the chocolate sauce to seep in.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a successful bake!
Triple Chocolate Poke Cake Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises to perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter. This will help the cake release easily once baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the cooled coffee, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Whisk until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Poke the Cake
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Then, using skewers or a fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake—this is where the chocolate sauce will seep in.
Step 8: Prepare the Chocolate Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat your favorite chocolate sauce until it’s warm and pourable. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce.
Step 9: Pour the Chocolate Sauce
Carefully pour the warm chocolate sauce over the poked cake, ensuring it fills the holes and saturates the cake. Allow it to absorb for about 30 minutes.
Step 10: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has absorbed the sauce, you can top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or any toppings of your choice for that extra flair.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the cake into squares, serve it on a plate, and watch as your guests delight in every chocolatey bite of this Triple Chocolate Poke Cake!
Ingredient Flex Options
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or soy milk instead of buttermilk, and opt for a dairy-free chocolate sauce.
- Lower Sugar: Consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the sugar by one-half cup for a less sweet version.
- Egg-Free: Replace eggs with unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg) or a flaxseed mixture.
If You’re Curious
The poke cake method came about in the 1970s and has since gained popularity for its simple preparation and delightful results. The concept is to poke holes in a cake after baking to allow flavored liquids, like chocolate sauce or pudding, to soak in, creating a moist and flavorful dessert.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you’re planning to make this Triple Chocolate Poke Cake ahead of time, it’s easy! Bake the cake and let it cool completely. Poke the holes, pour the sauce, and then cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. This cake can be made up to two days in advance, and it will stay moist and delicious!
Quick Questions
Can I use a different type of chocolate sauce?
Absolutely! You can use any chocolate sauce you prefer—milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a flavored sauce like caramel or hazelnut for a fun twist.
How long does the cake last?
Stored in an airtight container, this cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days. However, we doubt it will last that long!
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake before pouring the chocolate sauce. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before adding the sauce.
What should I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries. Each addition will complement the rich chocolate flavor beautifully!
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Easy Chocolate Cupcakes – Perfect for any occasion!
- Quick and Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic favorite.
- Vegan Chocolate Cake – A delicious dairy-free option.
- One Bowl Chocolate Cake – Simple and satisfying!
Hungry for More?
If you’re craving more chocolatey goodness, stay tuned for our upcoming recipes that will take your dessert game to the next level. Whether it’s brownies, cookies, or more decadent cakes, we have something sweet just for you!
There you have it—the delightful Triple Chocolate Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! With layers of chocolate and a moist texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds, you’ll find this cake to be a staple in your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and let’s bake something truly amazing!
Triple Chocolate Poke Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises to perfection.
- Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan - Grease your 9x13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter. This will help the cake release easily once baked.
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
- Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the cooled coffee, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Whisk until thoroughly combined.
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 6: Bake the Cake - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 7: Poke the Cake - Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Then, using skewers or a fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake—this is where the chocolate sauce will seep in.
- Step 8: Prepare the Chocolate Sauce - In a small saucepan, heat your favorite chocolate sauce until it’s warm and pourable. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce.
- Step 9: Pour the Chocolate Sauce - Carefully pour the warm chocolate sauce over the poked cake, ensuring it fills the holes and saturates the cake. Allow it to absorb for about 30 minutes.
- Step 10: Frost the Cake - Once the cake has absorbed the sauce, you can top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or any toppings of your choice for that extra flair.
- Step 11: Serve and Enjoy - Cut the cake into squares, serve it on a plate, and watch as your guests delight in every chocolatey bite of this Triple Chocolate Poke Cake!
Notes
- Make sure to let the cake cool before poking holes to avoid breaking it.
- This cake can be made up to two days in advance; just cover it tightly in the fridge.
- Try different chocolate sauces for a unique flavor twist!
