Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist cake with peanut butter flavor in every bite
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Fun to decorate with your favorite peanut butter candies
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a make-ahead dessert
A guaranteed hit for chocolate and peanut butter lovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake batter)
Creamy peanut butter
Sweetened condensed milk or prepared instant pudding
Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Chocolate frosting or hot fudge (optional)
Chopped peanut butter cups, peanut butter chips, or candy pieces for garnish

Directions

Bake the chocolate cake in a 9×13-inch pan according to package or recipe directions.
While still warm, poke holes all over the surface of the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer.
In a bowl, combine peanut butter with sweetened condensed milk (or pudding) until smooth.
Pour the peanut butter mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to absorb.
Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
Drizzle with chocolate frosting or hot fudge if desired, and sprinkle with peanut butter candies.
Serve cold and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–16
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour or more
Total time: About 2 hours including chilling

Variations

Use peanut butter pudding for a thicker filling
Swap chocolate cake for vanilla or peanut butter cake
Add a layer of sliced bananas before the whipped topping for a twist
Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture
Top with chopped nuts instead of candy for a less sweet version

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days
Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before serving
Best served cold; no reheating needed

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A cake that’s baked, poked with holes, and filled with a liquid or cream to make it extra moist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, it tastes even better when made the day before.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

It’s best to use regular creamy peanut butter for a smooth filling; natural peanut butter may separate.

How far apart should I poke the holes?

About 1 inch apart ensures the filling spreads evenly.

Can I make this with homemade cake?

Yes, any chocolate cake recipe works as the base.

Can I use a different filling?

You can replace the peanut butter filling with caramel or chocolate sauce for variety.

Do I need to drain the pudding before using it?

No—just prepare it according to package instructions if using pudding.

Can I make this in a round cake pan?

Yes, but you may need to split the batter into two pans and adjust bake time.

What candy works best for topping?

Chopped peanut butter cups, peanut butter chips, or Reese’s Pieces are all great choices.

Can I frost instead of using whipped topping?

Absolutely—peanut butter buttercream or chocolate frosting works beautifully.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Poke Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. With its chocolate base, creamy peanut butter filling, and fun toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.