Name: Heavenly Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake to Satisfy Cravings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 box Chocolate Cake Mix (Choose your favorite brand for best results.); 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (Adds moisture and sweetness.); 1 cup Peanut Butter (Creamy goodness enhances richness.); 1 jar Hot Fudge Sauce (Feel free to swap with caramel.); 1 container Whipped Topping (Ensure it's thawed for easy spreading.); 1 cup Mini Reese’s Cups (Finishing touch that brings crunch.)

You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up a show-stopping dessert that combines your favorite candy bar and a classic cake. This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake is a delightful blend of rich chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter, making it the ultimate sweet escape. Packed with gooey fudge and topped with crunchy mini Reese’s cups, this dessert not only satisfies those sweet cravings but also has a straightforward prep that anyone can conquer. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for celebrations or cozy get-togethers. Ready to take your dessert game to the next level? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and discover the magic of homemade indulgence!

Why is This Poke Cake a Must-Try?

Irresistible Layers: Each bite combines fluffy chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter, and rich fudge sauce for an unforgettable flavor explosion.
Effortlessly Simple: With just a boxed cake mix and a few staples, you can create a stunning dessert without a culinary degree.
Versatile Options: Swap in your favorite candies, like Snickers or M&Ms, based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable for any craving.
Ideal for Gatherings: This cake is perfect for parties, ensuring smiles all around and leaving guests wanting seconds! Pair it with some delicious Cajun Honey Butter Salmon for an unforgettable meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight, enhancing its deliciousness for the big day!

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Chocolate Cake Mix – A great base that provides a rich, fluffy texture; choose your favorite brand for best results.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds moisture and sweetness, transforming your cake into a melt-in-your-mouth dream.

For the Topping
• Peanut Butter – Creamy goodness that enhances richness and gives that iconic salty-sweet flavor perfect for this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake.
• Hot Fudge Sauce – Drizzle it on top for an irresistible chocolate layer; feel free to swap with caramel for a different twist!
• Whipped Topping – Lightens and adds fluffiness to the cake; ensure it’s thawed for easy spreading.
• Mini Reese’s Cups – The delightful finishing touch that brings crunch and bursts of peanut butter flavor to each slice!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions, using a 9×13-inch pan. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Poke Holes
After the cake has cooled briefly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to gently poke holes across the surface about 1 inch apart. Ensure you go deep enough to create channels for the delicious peanut butter mixture later, which will soak into the cake for that moist and flavorful Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake experience.

Step 3: Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter together until you achieve a smooth consistency. Pour this peanut butter mixture generously over the poked holes in the cake. Allow it to soak in for at least 15 minutes, letting the cake absorb all that creamy goodness and intensifying the flavor throughout.

Step 4: Add Fudge
If needed, slightly heat the hot fudge sauce in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, just until it’s pourable. Drizzle the warm fudge sauce evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to flow into the holes. This rich chocolate layer adds an indulgent touch that complements the peanut butter and makes the poke cake truly decadent.

Step 5: Cool and Frost
Once the fudge sauce is drizzled, let the cake cool completely at room temperature, which should take another 30-45 minutes. When the cake is fully cooled, spread a generous layer of thawed whipped topping evenly across the top, creating a fluffy and inviting layer that balances the rich flavors of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake.

Step 6: Garnish
Just before serving, finely chop the mini Reese’s cups and sprinkle them over the whipped topping. This adds a delightful crunch and burst of peanut butter flavor. For the best texture, be sure to add them right before serving, keeping them crispy and fresh for an irresistible finish to your dessert masterpiece.

What to Serve with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake

Imagine an exquisite dessert table, where the tantalizing aroma of chocolate mingles with the creamy essence of peanut butter, inviting your guests to indulge.

Milkshakes: Creamy and rich, a chocolate milkshake would be a delightful partner, echoing the flavors of the cake while offering a refreshing contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth, velvety vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness and adds a cooling effect to this decadent cake.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The slight acidity of fresh strawberries complements the rich chocolate and peanut butter, providing a deliciously fresh touch.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the dessert experience, with its bitter notes harmonizing beautifully with the sweetness of the poke cake.
Nutty Snack Mix: A crunchy, nutty mix adds texture and an earthy element, making each bite interesting and enhancing the overall snacking experience.
Whipped Cream Parfait: Layer whipped cream with some leftover cake bits for a lighter dessert, offering a fluffy and decadent end to your meal.

Expert Tips for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake

Chill for Stability: Refrigerate the cake after soaking to ensure it firms up, preventing a too-soft texture before you frost it.
Poke Depth Matters: Make sure to poke deep enough holes for the peanut butter mixture to seep in, enhancing the richness of your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake.
Timing is Key: Wait to add mini Reese’s cups until just before serving to maintain their crunch and prevent sogginess.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting. Rushing this step can create a beautifully rich dessert that turns soupy.
Customize It: Feel free to swap out toppings or mix-ins like Snickers or caramel sauce. This versatility allows for endless variations of your poke cake!

Make Ahead Options

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake is a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire cake up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, enhancing its deliciousness. Bake and cool the cake, poke holes, and pour the peanut butter mixture over it as instructed. For the best quality, refrigerate it covered after adding the peanut butter and fudge layers. Just before serving, spread the whipped topping evenly and garnish with chopped mini Reese’s cups to keep them crunchy. With this make-ahead method, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort, perfect for any gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the pan with plastic wrap for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve as the cake sits!

Freezer: Slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

Make-Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance; just be sure to refrigerate it. It tastes even better after letting the flavors meld overnight!

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake Variations

Customize your cake to create a delightful new experience. With a sprinkle of creativity, you’ll discover new flavor profiles that will amaze your taste buds!

Candy Swap: Replace mini Reese’s cups with Snickers or M&Ms for a different flavor twist, adding a new crunch to every bite.
Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped peanuts or almonds into the fudge layer for added texture and a nutty crunch that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
Healthier Option: Use a sugar-free chocolate cake mix and sweetened condensed milk to create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Version: Swap eggs and milk in cake mix for flax eggs and almond milk, and choose a dairy-free whipped topping for creamy indulgence.
Caramel Drizzle: Trade hot fudge for warm caramel sauce for a sweet, buttery taste that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
Extra Fudge: Add a layer of fudge frosting on top of the whipped topping for a truly decadent treat. This cake is for chocolate lovers!
Spiced Up: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or espresso powder into the peanut butter mixture for a warm, flavorful kick that elevates the dessert.
Choco-Mint Fantasy: Add a mint-flavored twist by using peppermint extract in the whipped topping, creating a refreshing taste that blends perfectly with chocolate and peanut butter.

These variations will surely brighten your day and impress guests at your next gathering! Don’t forget to enjoy this cake alongside a slice of Coconut Cake Cheese for a delightful dessert spread, or share some sweet moments with a slice of Brown Butter Chocolate as they all complement each other beautifully. Let your inner chef shine!

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of chocolate cake mix should I use?
Absolutely, you can use any brand of chocolate cake mix that you love! Whether it’s classic, fudgy, or even a gluten-free option, the heartiness of the cake will hold up beautifully with the peanut butter and fudge layers.

How should I store my Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake?
For delicious leftovers, store your cake in an airtight container or simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 4-5 days. The flavors will actually enhance as it sits, making each slice even more enjoyable!

Can I freeze the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cake into individual pieces and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place these wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for about 10–15 seconds to warm them up.

What if my cake seems too soft after adding the peanut butter mixture?
If you notice that your cake appears too soft after soaking, no worries! I recommend chilling the cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frosting. This will help firm it up, ensuring a better texture for your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Always good to check! If you have peanut allergies, you can substitute the peanut butter with sun butter or any nut-free alternative. For dairy concerns, opt for lactose-free condensed milk and whipped toppings. These substitutions will allow everyone to enjoy this decadent poke cake without worry!