Black Forest poke cake is the ultimate dessert mashup that brings together rich chocolate cake, luscious cherry filling, and a dreamy whipped topping for a crowd-pleasing treat. This decadent dessert takes all the flavors of the classic Black Forest cake and transforms them into an easy-to-make poke cake that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, and weeknight cravings. With its moist texture, layers of indulgence, and vibrant cherry topping, this cake is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, this recipe delivers a slice of happiness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Poke Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy yet impressive, Black Forest poke cake is a must-try. Here’s why you’ll love it:
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Decadent chocolate base: Uses a boxed cake mix but tastes like it’s from scratch.
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Fudge-filled goodness: Warm chocolate fudge seeps into every hole for an ultra-moist, rich texture.
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Cherry pie perfection: The fruity topping adds a tart-sweet contrast to the rich chocolate.
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Creamy, dreamy finish: A blend of vanilla pudding and whipped topping makes every bite light and fluffy.
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Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before an event—flavors meld beautifully as it rests.
Ingredients
To make this luscious dessert, you’ll need:
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1 (15.25 oz) box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
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1 cup chocolate fudge sauce
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1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
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1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla instant pudding
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1 cup cold milk
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4 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
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Optional: Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for garnish
Step-by-Step: How to Make Black Forest Poke Cake
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Bake the Cake: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions. Bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and let it cool completely.
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Poke the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or the end of a chopstick to poke holes all over the cake. Space the holes about an inch apart.
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Add the Fudge: Warm the chocolate fudge sauce slightly—either in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat—until it’s pourable. Pour it slowly over the cake, making sure it drips into the holes.
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Spread Cherry Filling: Evenly spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cake.
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Make the Topping: In a bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with 1 cup of cold milk until it just starts to thicken (about 1–2 minutes). Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and combined.
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Frost the Cake: Spread the pudding and whipped topping mixture over the cherry filling layer.
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Decorate and Chill: Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour (2 hours or more is ideal) before serving to let the flavors meld and set.
Helpful Tips
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Cool completely: Let the cake cool before poking and adding fudge or it may become soggy.
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Warm but not hot fudge: Heat the fudge just enough to pour easily but avoid burning it.
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Don’t overmix the topping: Gently folding the pudding and whipped topping keeps it airy.
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Make ahead: You can prepare this cake up to 24 hours in advance—just keep it covered in the fridge.
Substitutions and Variations
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Chocolate overload: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for an extra-rich topping.
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Homemade touch: Swap canned cherry pie filling for homemade cherry compote if preferred.
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Diet-friendly: Use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping to reduce sugar and calories.
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Boozy twist: Add a splash of cherry liqueur (like Kirsch) to the fudge for a grown-up version.
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Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies or slivered almonds on top for texture.
Storage Instructions
Store your Black Forest poke cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, don’t freeze this cake, as the whipped topping may separate when thawed. Always keep it chilled and serve cold for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general breakdown per serving (1 of 12 slices):
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Calories: 377 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 70g
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Protein: 5g
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Fat: 10g
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Saturated Fat: 3g
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Cholesterol: 7mg
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Sodium: 465mg
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Sugar: 34g
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Fiber: 2g
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Calcium: 123mg
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Iron: 2mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact brands and ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
This cake shines as a standalone dessert, but you can elevate the experience with a few fun extras:
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Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream for extra indulgence.
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Pair with hot coffee or espresso for a lovely contrast to the chilled cake.
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Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on top for a bakery-style presentation.
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Serve in individual trifle cups for a party-friendly twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Forest Poke Cake
Can I use homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?
Yes! If you have a favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe, feel free to use it as the base—just make sure it yields a 9×13-inch pan and cools completely before poking.
What kind of fudge sauce should I use?
Store-bought chocolate fudge sauce works great, or you can make your own. Just ensure it’s thick and pourable.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely. In fact, this cake tastes even better the next day. Make it the night before your event and store it covered in the refrigerator.
Is it okay to freeze poke cake?
Freezing is not recommended due to the whipped topping. It may lose its texture and become watery when thawed.
Do I have to use cherry pie filling?
Cherry is traditional for Black Forest flavor, but you can switch it up with raspberry or strawberry filling if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing a love of all things sweet and chocolatey. This Black Forest poke cake is one of my go-to desserts when I want something that’s rich in flavor, stunning to serve, and incredibly simple to make. The layers of chocolate, cherry, and creamy topping come together in the most delicious way—every bite is pure bliss. I hope you enjoy making and eating this cake as much as I do. Happy baking, and thanks for being part of this food-loving community!
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Black Forest Poke Cake
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Black Forest Poke Cake is an easy and decadent chocolate dessert filled with rich fudge, layered with cherry pie filling, and topped with a light and fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any sweet craving. Save this recipe and treat your guests to a chocolate-cherry classic!
Ingredients
1 (15.25 oz) box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water)
1 cup chocolate fudge sauce
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
4 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
Optional: Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
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Bake the Cake: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions. Bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and let it cool completely.
-
Poke the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or the end of a chopstick to poke holes all over the cake. Space the holes about an inch apart.
-
Add the Fudge: Warm the chocolate fudge sauce slightly—either in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat—until it’s pourable. Pour it slowly over the cake, making sure it drips into the holes.
-
Spread Cherry Filling: Evenly spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cake.
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Make the Topping: In a bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with 1 cup of cold milk until it just starts to thicken (about 1–2 minutes). Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and combined.
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Frost the Cake: Spread the pudding and whipped topping mixture over the cherry filling layer.
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Decorate and Chill: Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour (2 hours or more is ideal) before serving to let the flavors meld and set.
Notes
For best flavor, make this cake a day ahead to let it fully set in the fridge.
Swap in chocolate pudding for a double chocolate twist.
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Not freezer-friendly due to whipped topping texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes + Time (Resting/Chilling): 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American