Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of a traditional Boston cream pie with the convenience of a cake mix. This recipe is perfect for those who love the classic combination of creamy custard, moist cake, and chocolate ganache. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that will impress your family and friends at any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Cake Batter: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Cake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
Step 2: Prepare the Pudding
- Mix the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Fill the Holes: Pour the pudding over the cake, spreading it evenly and making sure it fills the holes. Use a spatula to help the pudding seep into the cake.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Spread the Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the pudding layer, spreading it evenly to cover the cake.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is set and the pudding is firm.
- Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, chocolatey goodness!
Tips for Making the Best Boston Cream Poke Cake
- Even Holes: When poking holes in the cake, make sure they are evenly spaced to ensure the pudding spreads evenly.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature ingredients for the cake mix to ensure even baking.
- Chill Time: Allowing the cake to chill for the recommended time helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
- Ganache Consistency: If the ganache is too thick, add a little more warm cream to reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before spreading.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Using a cake mix cuts down on preparation time, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of cake, pudding, and ganache is a hit with both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Dessert: This cake can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent option for parties and gatherings.
Conclusion
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic Boston cream pie, offering a creamy, chocolatey, and utterly satisfying dessert experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors of Boston cream in every bite!
Serving and Storage Tips for Boston Cream Poke Cake
Serving Tips
- Chilled and Ready: Ensure the cake is well-chilled before serving. This allows the pudding and ganache to set properly, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife to slice the cake. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.
- Add a Touch of Decoration: For a more festive presentation, you can add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top of each piece before serving.
- Serving Size: Cut the cake into small squares or rectangles. Given its rich flavors, smaller portions are often sufficient to satisfy sweet cravings.
- Temperature: Serve the cake straight from the fridge. The cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the chocolate ganache.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the Boston Cream Poke Cake in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and to keep it fresh.
- Duration: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Beyond this, the texture may start to degrade, and the cake may become soggy.
- Freezing: If you need to store the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Place individual slices on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Thawing: To enjoy a frozen slice, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain the best texture.
- Airtight Container: If you prefer not to use plastic wrap, store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent any fridge odors from affecting the taste.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Boston Cream Poke Cake remains delicious and enjoyable for several days. Whether you’re serving it immediately or saving some for later, these guidelines will help maintain its rich, creamy, and chocolatey goodness.
1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different flavors of cake mix to suit your preferences. While yellow cake mix is traditional, white or chocolate cake mix can also be delicious alternatives. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for mixing and baking.
2. Can I make the pudding from scratch instead of using instant pudding mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer to make your pudding from scratch, you can use a homemade vanilla custard or pudding recipe. Ensure the pudding is well-chilled and thickened before pouring it over the cake to achieve the best results.
3. What if I don’t have heavy cream for the ganache?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with an equal amount of half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the ganache may be slightly less rich and thick, but it will still be delicious. Alternatively, you can use a ready-made chocolate frosting for a quick and easy topping.
4. How can I prevent the pudding from becoming too runny and soaking the cake?
To avoid the pudding becoming too runny, make sure to use instant pudding mix and cold milk as specified in the recipe. Whisk the pudding mixture until it thickens before pouring it over the cake. Additionally, allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the pudding, and ensure the cake is well-chilled before serving to help the pudding set properly.