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Homemade Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe photo

Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Poke Cake is a chocolate lover's dream! Moist, rich, and oh-so-decadent, it's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chocolate, Easy, Moist, Poke Cake
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup spelt or white flour for a tender crumb.
  • 6 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder to pack in that chocolatey goodness.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda for leavening and flavor balance.
  • 1/2 tsp salt for flavor balance.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar unrefined if desired, for sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup applesauce, banana, or yogurt of choice for moisture and a hint of natural sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup oil, almond butter, or allergy-friendly substitute to keep the cake moist.
  • 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract for that classic flavor.
  • 3/4 cup water to bring everything together.
  • 2/3 cup chocolate syrup the star of the show that makes it a poke cake!

Instructions

Instructions

  • Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly.
  • Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the spelt or white flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. Make sure everything is well combined to avoid any clumps.
  • Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, mix the applesauce (or banana/yogurt), oil (or almond butter), vanilla extract, and water. Stir until smooth.
  • Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay!
  • Step 5: Bake the Cake - Pour the batter into the prepared 9x13 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Step 6: Poke the Cake - Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure to poke deep enough for the syrup to seep in!
  • Step 7: Add the Chocolate Syrup - Slowly pour the chocolate syrup over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This is where the magic happens—every bite will be infused with chocolatey goodness!
  • Step 8: Let It Cool - Let the cake cool completely in the pan. As it cools, the syrup will settle and create a deliciously moist texture.
  • Step 9: Serve and Enjoy - Once cooled, you can serve the cake as is or top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit. Each forkful should be a blissful experience!

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • 9x13-inch Baking Pan
  • Toothpick or skewer
  • Spatula

Notes

  • Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
  • For a festive twist, add peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes during the holidays.
  • You can freeze the cake for up to three months; just ensure it's completely cooled and wrapped tightly.