If you are craving a dessert that is both impressive and incredibly easy to make, this Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It beautifully combines rich chocolate cake with juicy cherries and luscious whipped cream, all layered together in a way that each bite feels like a slice of heaven. What makes this poke cake stand out is how the cherry filling and sweetened condensed milk soak through the cake’s holes, infusing every crumb with flavor and moisture. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or treating yourself after a long day, this cake delivers classic Black Forest cake vibes without any complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in creating its signature balance of chocolate, cherry, and cream. The selection is simple yet essential, offering flavors and textures that come together effortlessly for a stunning dessert.
- Chocolate cake mix: Acts as the rich, moist base that’s quick and foolproof to bake.
- Cherry pie filling: Brings the sweet and tart fruitiness essential to Black Forest flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness and helps keep the cake moist after poking.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the cherry filling with a subtle aromatic note.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection to create a light, creamy topping.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream just right without overpowering.
- Chocolate shavings or curls: Adds a delightful decorative touch and extra chocolate punch.
- Maraschino cherries (optional): Perfect for garnish, adding color and an extra burst of cherry flavor.
How to Make Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven as directed on the chocolate cake mix box. Prepare the cake batter following the package instructions, then pour it into a 9×13-inch pan. Bake as indicated until a toothpick comes out clean. This simple base sets the stage for all the delicious layers to come.
Step 2: Cool and Poke Holes
Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Then take the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the entire surface. This step is key because it allows the cherry mixture and sweetened condensed milk to seep in and keep the cake perfectly moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Add Cherry Filling
In a small bowl, stir together the cherry pie filling and vanilla extract for that extra depth of flavor. Spread this mixture evenly over the poke holes, letting it cascade into each hole for maximum cherry sweetness in every bite.
Step 4: Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly over the cherry layer so it sinks into the holes as well. This rich, creamy addition ensures the cake stays beautifully moist and adds an irresistible caramel-like undertone.
Step 5: Chill the Cake
Cover your cake and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld and enhances the cake’s texture, making it easier to top with whipped cream and serve later.
Step 6: Whip the Cream and Frost
Using an electric mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this light, airy whipped cream over the chilled cake, creating a soft and creamy layer that perfectly balances the rich chocolate and tart cherries.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish your creation by sprinkling chocolate shavings or curls on top, and if you’re feeling fancy, add a few maraschino cherries for that classic Black Forest look. Serve chilled and watch everyone fall in love with every forkful!
How to Serve Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chocolate shavings and maraschino cherries on top elevates the visual appeal and adds delightful contrasts in texture and flavor. The chocolate curls melt slightly on the cool whipped cream, while the cherries add a pop of color and a final burst of cherry sweetness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh berry salad to complement its richness. A cup of strong coffee or dark chocolate espresso shot also makes a fantastic companion for the cake’s deep chocolate notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe in individual dessert cups layered with cake chunks, cherry filling, and whipped cream. You could also cut the cake into squares and serve on a delicate dessert plate with a drizzle of cherry syrup or melted chocolate for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Black Forest Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more over time. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze the cake, it’s best to do so before adding whipped cream. Wrap the baked and cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, freezing it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before adding whipped cream and garnishing.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so it isn’t typically reheated. If you prefer a warmer treat, try letting a slice come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. For reheated brownie lovers, consider serving a warm fruit compote alongside instead.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! Homemade chocolate cake works beautifully and adds a personal touch. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings and that you poke holes gently without breaking the cake apart.
What if I can’t find cherry pie filling?
If cherry pie filling isn’t available, you can substitute with homemade cherry preserves or a mix of fresh cherries cooked down with sugar and a little lemon juice until syrupy. Just be sure the mixture is thick enough to stay in the holes.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
You can adapt the recipe by using dairy-free whipped cream alternatives and sweetened condensed coconut milk in place of traditional versions. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly but the flavor will still delight.
How long does the cake need to chill?
At least one hour in the fridge is needed to let the cherry filling and condensed milk soak in and to firm up the cake for easy slicing. For best results, chilling it a bit longer won’t hurt and often improves the flavor melding.
Can I add liquor for an adult version?
Definitely! Adding a splash of kirsch or cherry liqueur to the cherry filling gives an elegant twist. Just mix it in with the filling before spreading it over the cake to infuse that classic Black Forest adult vibe.
Final Thoughts
This Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe is a deliciously effortless way to capture all the magic of a traditional Black Forest cake without all the fuss. It’s perfect for celebrations or everyday treats, delivering rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and fluffy cream in one gorgeous dessert. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own new favorite—happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Black Forest Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining moist chocolate cake with cherry pie filling, sweetened condensed milk, and luscious whipped cream. The cake is poked with holes to allow the cherry mixture and condensed milk to soak in, creating a rich and flavorful treat topped with chocolate shavings and optional maraschino cherries. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the package)
Filling and Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or chocolate curls
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake Cake: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the chocolate cake mix package. Prepare the cake batter as directed, then pour it into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake fully as per package directions.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the baked cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes to make it easier to handle for the next step.
- Poke Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly all across the surface of the cake. This helps the fillings absorb well into the cake.
- Mix and Spread Cherry Filling: In a small bowl, combine the cherry pie filling with vanilla extract. Evenly spread this cherry mixture over the entire surface of the cake, pushing it gently to seep into the poked holes.
- Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk: Slowly pour the can of sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it soaks through the holes and distributes evenly.
- Refrigerate: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to absorb the fillings properly.
- Whip Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy whipped cream.
- Top Cake with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake, covering it completely for a smooth, creamy layer.
- Add Final Garnish: Sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls generously over the top of the whipped cream. Garnish with maraschino cherries if desired for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve the cake chilled for the best taste and texture. Enjoy this rich and fruity Black Forest dessert!
Notes
- Make sure the cake is cooled slightly before poking holes to prevent crumbling.
- Refrigerating the cake for at least one hour helps the flavors blend and keeps the dessert moist.
- You can substitute fresh cherries or cherry preserves if cherry pie filling is unavailable.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat whipped cream or cool whip instead of heavy whipping cream.
- Chocolate curls can be made by shaving a chocolate bar with a vegetable peeler if store-bought shavings are not available.
