Welcome to a journey of culinary indulgence with our Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake. This decadent dessert is a delightful twist on the classic Boston cream pie, offering layers of moist cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and rich chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations, this poke cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Join us as we delve into the delectable world of Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake and learn how to create this irresistible treat in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix, plus ingredients called for on the package
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 oz bag chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Instructions:
- Prepare Cake:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box.
- Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake according to package instructions.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Poke Holes:
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Ensure that the holes are evenly spaced and go all the way to the bottom of the cake.
- Prepare Pudding:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk until smooth and thickened.
- Fill Holes:
- Pour the prepared pudding over the surface of the cake, making sure to fill each hole.
- Chill Cake:
- Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour, allowing the pudding to set.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer.
- Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and pour the hot cream over them.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Finish Cake:
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Return the cake to the refrigerator to set for another 30 minutes.
- Serve:
- Once set, slice the Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake and serve chilled.
- Enjoy the heavenly combination of moist cake, creamy pudding, and rich chocolate ganache with every bite!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vanilla Bean Pudding: For an extra touch of elegance, use vanilla bean pudding instead of instant vanilla pudding.
- White Chocolate Ganache: Substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a white chocolate ganache topping.
- Fresh Fruit: Add sliced strawberries or raspberries on top of the cake before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake, you can make the following substitutions:
- Cake: Use a keto-friendly yellow cake mix or make a homemade almond flour cake base.
- Pudding: Use sugar-free vanilla pudding mix and unsweetened almond milk to prepare the pudding.
- Chocolate Ganache: Use sugar-free chocolate chips and heavy cream to make a keto-friendly ganache topping.
Low Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version of Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake, follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and be mindful of the carb content in the cake mix and pudding mix. You can also reduce the amount of chocolate ganache or use a sugar-free alternative to further lower the carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this cake in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the cake and pudding ahead of time and assemble it just before serving. Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding? A: Yes, you can use homemade pudding if you prefer. Just make sure it is thick enough to fill the holes in the cake.
Q: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? A: Absolutely! You can use any flavor of cake mix you like, such as chocolate or vanilla, to create different variations of poke cake.
In conclusion, Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the classic flavors of Boston cream pie with the fun and easy preparation of a poke cake. With its moist cake base, creamy pudding filling, and rich chocolate ganache topping, this dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a special treat at home, this poke cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake today!
