Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that combines the richness of chocolate cake with the sweet-tartness of cherry pie filling and a creamy whipped topping. This easy-to-make poke cake is perfect for any occasion, offering layers of flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a party, a family gathering, or simply enjoying it at home, this cake is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix
Ingredients required to prepare cake mix (usually water, eggs, and oil)
1 can cherry pie filling
1 cup chocolate chips
1 container whipped topping

Directions

Prepare and bake the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
Pour the cherry pie filling over the cake, spreading it evenly and allowing the filling to settle into the holes.
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the cake, letting them fall into the holes and on top of the surface.
Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake, covering the chocolate chips and cherries.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 12

Variations

Fruit Filling: If you’re not a fan of cherries, you can replace the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings, like blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry, for a different twist.
Add Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) on top along with the chocolate chips.
Frosting: Swap the whipped topping with a layer of cream cheese frosting for a richer, tangy twist.
Cake Flavor: Use different cake mixes such as vanilla, strawberry, or red velvet for a change of flavor while keeping the cherry topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While this cake can be frozen, the whipped topping may not maintain its texture after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
Reheating: Poke cakes are typically served cold, but if you prefer a warm dessert, you can microwave individual servings for about 15-20 seconds, though the whipped topping may soften.

10 FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of store-bought? Yes, you can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe in place of the box mix.
Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully after sitting for a few hours.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling? While fresh cherries can be used, the pie filling is thicker and sweeter, which helps the cake stay moist and adds the perfect texture to the poke cake. If you use fresh cherries, you may need to cook them down with some sugar to create a more syrupy consistency.
Do I have to chill the cake before serving? Chilling the cake is recommended as it allows the cherry filling and whipped topping to set properly, enhancing the flavor and texture. However, if you’re in a rush, it can be served immediately after preparation.
Can I use other types of chips? Yes! You can substitute the chocolate chips with other types of chips, such as white chocolate, peanut butter, or butterscotch, for a unique twist.
How do I poke the cake evenly? Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar tool to create evenly spaced holes throughout the cake. Be sure not to poke too deeply, as you want the holes to be just deep enough to absorb the filling.
Can I use a different topping than whipped cream? Yes, you can use other toppings like heavy cream whipped into stiff peaks, cream cheese frosting, or even a store-bought frosting of your choice.
Can I freeze this cake? You can freeze the cake, but the whipped topping may not maintain its texture once thawed. For best results, freeze the cake without the topping, then add it after thawing.
Can I make this cake without chocolate chips? Yes, you can skip the chocolate chips if you prefer a simpler cake. However, they add a nice texture and flavor contrast that complements the cherry filling.
What can I do if I don’t have a wooden spoon? You can use any rounded object that is similar in size, such as the back of a chopstick or a handle of another utensil, to create the holes in the cake.

Conclusion

Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the best of chocolate, cherries, and whipped topping in one decadent treat. Perfect for any celebration or as a sweet everyday dessert, this poke cake is easy to make, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its layers of cake, fruit filling, and chocolate chips, it’s a dessert that brings together the best flavors of the season.