Introduction
This reeses peanut butter poke cake combines chocolate cake with a creamy peanut butter filling and rich ganache. It’s a simple dessert that delivers the classic chocolate-peanut butter flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for an indulgent treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake starts with a boxed chocolate cake mix, but the magic happens when you poke holes in the warm cake and pour over a sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter mixture. The filling seeps into every crumb, making the cake incredibly moist and flavorful. It’s easy to make with no fancy equipment or baking skills required.
The recipe is forgiving and versatile. You can dress it up with whipped cream and chopped Reese’s cups or keep it simple with powdered sugar. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or treating your family on a random Tuesday. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this reeses peanut butter poke cake. All ingredients are pantry staples.
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups (about 8-10 mini cups or 3 regular-sized)
- Optional: 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter for drizzling, whipped cream for serving
Substitutions & Notes
- Peanut butter: Use creamy for the smoothest filling; crunchy adds texture.
- Chocolate cake mix: A from-scratch chocolate cake works, but boxed keeps it quick.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free condensed milk, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Extra peanut butter flavor: Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the filling to enhance the taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make a show-stopping reeses peanut butter poke cake.
- Preheat and prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake the cake: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions. Pour batter into the dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke those holes: While the cake is still warm (about 5 minutes out of the oven), use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, going all the way to the bottom.
- Make the peanut butter filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter until smooth. If too thick, microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Pour and soak: Pour the peanut butter mixture evenly over the warm cake, filling all the holes. Spread gently with a spatula. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature.
- Whip up the ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just simmers. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Top it off: Pour the ganache over the cooled cake, spreading evenly. Immediately sprinkle the chopped Reese’s cups over the top.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set. Slice and serve.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- ✓Quick and easy to prepare
- ✓Packed with flavor and nutrition
- ✓Perfect for any occasion
- ✓Customizable to your taste preferences
- ✓Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
Use these tips to ensure your reeses peanut butter poke cake turns out perfect every time.
- Don’t skip the poking: Be generous with your holes—more holes mean more peanut butter goodness in every bite.
- Poke while warm: The cake should be warm, not piping hot. If too hot, it may crumble; if too cool, the filling won’t soak in.
- Let it chill completely: Chilling allows the filling to set and flavors to meld. It’s worth the wait.
- Use a wooden spoon handle: It’s the perfect size for poking holes without tearing the cake.
- Warm the peanut butter: If stiff, microwave for a few seconds to make mixing easier.
Variations and Substitutions
This reeses peanut butter poke cake is easy to customize. Here are some ideas.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and check that your peanut butter and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.
- Extra chocolatey: Add a layer of chocolate pudding on top of the peanut butter filling.
- Nut-free option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and use a nut-free chocolate spread instead of Reese’s cups.
- Add a crunch: Sprinkle crushed pretzels or toffee bits over the ganache for a salty-sweet contrast.
- Make it a trifle: Cut the cake into cubes and layer with whipped cream and extra peanut butter sauce in a glass dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this reeses peanut butter poke cake slightly chilled for the best texture. Slice into generous squares and add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. For parties, set out extra chopped Reese’s cups for guests to sprinkle. Pair with a glass of cold milk, hot coffee, or even a chocolate stout. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or cozy nights in.
FAQs
Can I make this reeses peanut butter poke cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake tastes even better the next day. Prepare as directed, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, freeze the fully assembled cake in the baking dish, covered tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. The texture may be slightly softer, and the ganache might lose some shine.
What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
Simmer 1 cup of heavy cream with 3/4 cup of sugar until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool before mixing with peanut butter. Alternatively, use evaporated milk mixed with 1/2 cup of sugar, though the texture will be less rich.
Final Thoughts
This reeses peanut butter poke cake is simple, indulgent, and perfect for any occasion. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but impressive enough for gatherings. Make it for your family and enjoy the classic chocolate-peanut butter combination. Happy baking—a little peanut butter makes everything better.
👉 If you loved this reeses peanut butter poke cake, try more sweet treats like Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars or No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars. For something different, check out Creamy Banana Pudding or Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes. Join us on Facebook and Pinterest for daily inspiration.
· American ·
How to Make the Best Reeses Peanut Butter Poke
A moist chocolate cake filled with a creamy peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk mixture, topped with a rich chocolate ganache and chopped Reese's cups. This indulgent poke cake is the ultimate chocolate-peanut butter dessert.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter until smooth.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture evenly over the warm cake, filling the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely to room temperature.
- Heat the heavy cream until simmering, then pour over the chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the cooled cake and sprinkle with chopped Reese's cups.