Decadent Delight: Boston Cream Poke Cake – A Heavenly Dessert Sensation
Get ready to be transported to dessert paradise with our Boston Cream Poke Cake – an irresistible creation that combines the lusciousness of a classic Boston cream pie with the simplicity and indulgence of a poke cake. This heavenly treat is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures, featuring moist and tender cake layers soaked in rich vanilla custard and topped with a velvety smooth chocolate ganache. Each forkful is a blissful combination of creamy custard, fluffy cake, and indulgent chocolate, making this dessert a true showstopper that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Why Choose Boston Cream Poke Cake?
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a dessert lover’s dream come true. This cake takes the beloved flavors of a Boston cream pie and transforms them into a fuss-free, easy-to-make masterpiece. The act of “poking” holes in the cake allows the vanilla custard to infuse each layer, creating a velvety, moist texture that is both decadent and addictive. The glossy chocolate ganache drizzled over the top adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dessert a show-stopper that’s sure to impress at any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients (Serves 12-16):
*For the Cake:*
– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (plus ingredients as listed on the box – eggs, oil, water)
*For the Vanilla Custard:*
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 4 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
*For the Chocolate Ganache:*
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
*Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake*
Follow the instructions on the cake mix box to prepare the yellow cake batter. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake according to the package instructions. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes.
*Step 2: Poke the Cake*
Using the end of a wooden spoon or a chopstick, poke holes all over the warm cake. Space the holes about 1 inch apart to allow the custard to soak in evenly.
*Step 3: Make the Vanilla Custard*
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until the sugar and cornstarch are dissolved. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
*Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks*
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually pour about half of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. This process, known as tempering, prevents the egg yolks from curdling when added to the hot milk mixture.
*Step 5: Finish the Custard*
Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until well combined.
*Step 6: Fill the Cake with Custard*
Pour the warm vanilla custard over the poked cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to gently spread the custard evenly over the cake’s surface. Allow the cake to cool completely, and then refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to set the custard.
*Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache*
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat and add the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate, unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit for a minute, and then whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
*Step 8: Drizzle with Ganache and Serve*
Take the chilled cake out of the refrigerator and drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate the cake again for about 30 minutes to set the ganache. Once set, slice and serve this heavenly Boston Cream Poke Cake to your delighted guests.
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a divine dessert that marries the lusciousness of a Boston cream pie with the ease of a poke cake. The tender cake layers soaked in creamy vanilla custard and topped with velvety chocolate ganache create a taste experience that’s out of this world. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to indulge in a dessert sensation that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Embrace the magic of Boston Cream Poke Cake and let it become a star at your next gathering or a sweet treat to savor with your loved ones!
