A rich and indulgent dessert with layers of chocolate, peanut butter, and creamy topping in every bite. This easy-to-make poke cake is a chocolate lover’s dream with irresistible peanut butter swirls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and convenient with cake mix as the base

• Luscious peanut butter filling seeps into every bite

• Topped with whipped cream and cookie crunch

• Great make-ahead dessert for parties, potlucks, or birthdays

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus required eggs, oil, and water per box instructions)

• 1 cup peanut butter chips

• ½ cup mini chocolate chips

For the Filling:

• 1 cup peanut butter, melted

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

For the Topping:

• 1½ cups whipped topping

• ½ cup peanut butter, slightly melted

• ½ cup chocolate chips

• ¼ cup crushed chocolate cookies

Directions

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 480 kcal per slice

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the chocolate cake batter according to package directions.

2. Fold in the peanut butter chips and mini chocolate chips, then pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Bake as directed on the cake mix box. Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes.

4. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.

5. Slowly pour the melted peanut butter over the cake, letting it sink into the holes.

6. Follow with the sweetened condensed milk, spreading it evenly so it soaks in.

7. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set.

8. Once chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.

9. Drizzle slightly melted peanut butter on top in swirls.

10. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and crushed chocolate cookies for added texture.

11. Slice and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even richer treat

• Dust lightly with cocoa powder or add a drizzle of chocolate syrup

• Perfect for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or just because

Tips & Variations

• Use a devil’s food or fudge cake mix for an even deeper chocolate flavor

• Swap peanut butter for Nutella or cookie butter for a twist

• Add chopped peanut butter cups between the filling and topping for extra indulgence

• Make it a day ahead—it tastes even better after resting overnight

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?
Yes, just ensure it’s baked in a 9×13-inch pan and poke holes while it’s still warm.

Do I have to chill the cake before topping it?
Yes, chilling allows the filling to soak in and firms the cake for easier spreading of the whipped topping.

Can I freeze this cake?
You can freeze it without the whipped topping. Add the topping and decorations after thawing.

What kind of peanut butter works best?
Use creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter for smooth consistency. Natural peanut butter may separate and affect texture.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake is the perfect dessert when you want big flavor with minimal effort. It’s moist, creamy, and loaded with everything you love about chocolate and peanut butter in one decadent slice. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this cake never disappoints.