Boston Cream Poke Cake
A dreamy dessert twist on the classic Boston Cream Pie! This Boston Cream Poke Cake is easy, creamy, and totally irresistible—perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or a weekend sweet treat.
Layers of soft yellow cake, luscious vanilla pudding, and rich chocolate ganache come together in this no-fuss dessert that tastes like a bakery masterpiece. And the best part? It starts with a box cake mix!
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, such as eggs, oil, and water)
For the pudding layer:
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 cups cold milk
For the chocolate glaze:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp corn syrup (optional, for shine)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your cake mix box. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the cake mix as directed and bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let it cool for 15 minutes.
2. Poke the Cake
Once slightly cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon (or a thick straw) to poke holes all over the cake, reaching down to the bottom. This step is key to soaking up all that creamy pudding!
3. Make the Pudding Layer
In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mixes and cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
Pour the pudding over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
Spread the remaining pudding evenly across the top with a spatula.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
4. Make the Chocolate Glaze
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat.
Add the chocolate chips and let sit for 2–3 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract and corn syrup if using (for that shiny finish!).
5. Glaze and Chill
Pour the warm chocolate glaze over the chilled cake. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the glaze set and the flavors meld beautifully.
To Serve
Slice and serve chilled for best texture and flavor. Each bite delivers soft cake, silky pudding, and decadent chocolate—just like the original Boston Cream Pie, but easier!
Tips & Variations
- Make it fancy: Garnish with chocolate curls or fresh berries just before serving.
- Want a less sweet version? Use dark chocolate chips in the glaze.
- Short on time? Use store-bought pudding cups and heat-and-pour ganache to speed things up!
Storage
Store any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Serves: 12
Calories: ~380 kcal per slice
