Boston Cream Poke Cake
Looking for a dessert that’s irresistibly creamy, delightfully delicious, and impressively easy to make? Look no further than Boston Cream Poke Cake! This quick and simple recipe combines the classic flavors of Boston cream pie into a delightful poke cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Picture a light, fluffy yellow cake, filled with a rich vanilla pudding, and topped with glossy chocolate frosting—what’s not to love? Here’s a fun fact: this cake is not just a treat; it’s a memory maker! Many families have their own spin on this recipe because it brings people together to celebrate special moments, making it more than just a cake—it’s a slice of happiness. If you love desserts like classic chocolate cake or even a fruity berry tart, why not give this delightful treat a try? You won’t regret it—your family will be begging for seconds!
What is Boston Cream Poke Cake?
Isn’t it amusing how names can tell a story? The name “Boston Cream Poke Cake” is a delightful mouthful that sparks curiosity, don’t you think? It brings to mind images of a beautifully crafted cake tempting your taste buds. The “poke” in its name comes from the simple act of poking holes in the cake before soaking it with a creamy custard filling. Legend has it that this sweet dish was created as a way to combine two favorites: cake and pudding! And who can argue with the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? So, if you’re ready for an adventure in baking, let’s embark on a journey to create this scrumptious cake!
Why You’ll Love This Boston Cream Poke Cake:
This Boston Cream Poke Cake is not only a showstopper but also a pocketbook-friendly treat! Imagine the delight of digging into a slice of moist cake filled with silky vanilla pudding, all drizzled in rich chocolate frosting. You’ll love it for its big flavor and even bigger smiles it brings to the table! Plus, creating this mouthwatering dessert at home saves you money while making a stunning impression on family and friends. If you’re a fan of simple but decadent desserts, you might also enjoy our easy chocolate lava cake—it’s another winner that’s great for impressing guests! So why not get adventurous in the kitchen and whip up this luscious cake?
How to Make Boston Cream Poke Cake:
Quick Overview
This Boston Cream Poke Cake is a breeze to make, and you can have it ready to serve in under two hours! With a straightforward mixture of cake, pudding, and icing, you’ll have more time to enjoy the dessert than preparing it. The key is to let the cake cool properly and allow the pudding to soak in for that extra flavor burst—trust us, the wait will be worth it!
Key Ingredients for Boston Cream Poke Cake:
To make this delightful cake, you will need:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chocolate frosting
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix package (usually around 350°F or 175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes, or until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake according to package instructions, typically for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Poke the cake: Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Next, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, about an inch apart.
- Prepare the pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until it thickens. Pour this delicious mixture over the poke holes in the cake, ensuring that it seeps into all the holes.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the pudding to set and enhance the flavors.
- Frost the cake: Before serving, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top of the cake. For added flair, you can also top it with whipped cream if desired.
- Slice and serve: Cut into squares and serve this delightful treat to your family and friends—they’ll be swooning with every bite!
What to Serve Boston Cream Poke Cake With:
Pair this Boston Cream Poke Cake with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience! A tall glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee can enhance the flavors even further. For an added twist, consider serving it alongside a berry compote to balance the rich chocolate and creamy pudding—delicious!
Top Tips for Perfecting Boston Cream Poke Cake:
- Ingredient substitutions: If you’d like to mix things up, consider using chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a richer flavor! You can also try using instant chocolate pudding for an extra chocolatey punch.
- Timing adjustments: Be sure to allow the cake to cool completely before adding the pudding, or you risk melting it. Also, allowing the cake to chill in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Make sure not to skip poking holes—it’s vital for allowing the pudding to soak in. Also, if your pudding isn’t thickening, give it a bit more time to set!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store this cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it without the frosting for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for maximum freshness. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to grab an apron and dive into creating this delightful Boston Cream Poke Cake. Your taste buds are in for a treat! Happy baking!

Boston Cream Poke Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chocolate frosting
- 1/2 cup whipped cream optional for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix package (usually around 350°F or 175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes, or until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake according to package instructions, typically for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Poke the cake: Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Next, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, about an inch apart.
- Prepare the pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until it thickens. Pour this delicious mixture over the poke holes in the cake, ensuring that it seeps into all the holes.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the pudding to set and enhance the flavors.
- Frost the cake: Before serving, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top of the cake. For added flair, you can also top it with whipped cream if desired.
- Slice and serve: Cut into squares and serve this delightful treat to your family and friends—they’ll be swooning with every bite!
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