There’s something comforting about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. It’s indulgent, nostalgic, and satisfying. Now imagine that combo layered in a moist, syrup-infused cake topped with whipped cream and chunks of Reese’s. That’s what you get with this Reese’s Poke Cake—a dessert that’s ridiculously easy and outrageously delicious.
This recipe takes less than an hour from start to chill and is perfect for anyone who loves minimal effort with maximum flavor. Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, game night, or just want to treat yourself, this cake always delivers.
2. What Is a Poke Cake? A Quick Overview
A poke cake is exactly what it sounds like—a cake that’s poked with holes after baking and then filled with liquid (usually syrup, condensed milk, or pudding) to soak through the sponge. The result? A soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that absorbs every bit of flavor.
Poke cakes are especially popular because:
- They’re beginner-friendly
- They’re perfect for soaking in syrups and flavors
- They keep moist for days
- They’re super customizable
3. Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Poke Cake
Here’s what makes this recipe stand out from other cakes:
✅ Only 6 ingredients
✅ Boxed cake mix friendly
✅ Loaded with real Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
✅ No advanced skills needed
✅ Easily prepped ahead of time
✅ Tastes like a gourmet bakery treat
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who burns toast, this recipe is your new go-to chocolate fix.
4. Ingredients for Reese’s Poke Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this sweet sensation to life:
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix (any brand, plus the eggs, oil, and water it calls for)
- 1 cup chocolate syrup (room temperature or slightly warmed)
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip, thawed)
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (melted for drizzling)
- Optional: a pinch of sea salt to sprinkle on top for contrast
5. Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric or hand mixer
- Wooden spoon (for poking holes)
- Spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting peanut butter)
6. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake as instructed. Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes after baking.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a chopstick, poke holes all over the surface of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Syrup
Pour the chocolate syrup evenly over the entire cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let it sit for 5 minutes so it absorbs fully.
Step 4: Add Whipped Topping
Gently spread the whipped topping over the cooled and syrup-soaked cake using a spatula. Be careful not to disturb the surface.
Step 5: Decorate with Reese’s
Sprinkle chopped Reese’s cups generously across the top of the cake.
Step 6: Drizzle with Peanut Butter
Melt the peanut butter and use a spoon to drizzle it over the top in zigzag lines.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving. Slice and enjoy!
7. Tips for the Best Results
- Let the cake cool slightly before poking to avoid tearing the surface.
- Warm the syrup a bit to help it absorb better.
- Thaw the whipped topping fully before using so it spreads smoothly.
- Want richer flavor? Use hot fudge instead of chocolate syrup.
8. Flavor Variations You Can Try
- White Chocolate Reese’s Version: Use white chocolate syrup and white Reese’s cups.
- Salted Caramel Twist: Replace chocolate syrup with caramel sauce and top with caramel chips.
- Mocha Madness: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake batter.
9. Make-Ahead Instructions
This cake is a dream for prep-ahead dessert lovers.
- Make the cake and poke it a day ahead.
- Add syrup and chill overnight.
- Apply whipped topping and decorations the next day before serving.
This helps flavors deepen and gives you one less thing to stress over during events.
10. Storage and Freezing Guide
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for 4–5 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze the unfrosted, syrup-soaked cake wrapped in foil. Thaw, top, and serve.
Tip: If you freeze it fully frosted, the whipped topping may separate. Add toppings after thawing.
11. Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
Serving size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 410
- Carbs: 49g
- Sugar: 38g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Cholesterol: 35mg
12. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Poking while cake is too hot – it’ll tear
❌ Using cold syrup – won’t absorb well
❌ Overmixing cake batter – leads to dense cake
❌ Skipping the chill time – flavors won’t settle in properly
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?
Yes! Any moist chocolate cake will work—just keep the 9×13 size.
Q: What’s the best substitute for Reese’s?
Chopped Snickers, peanut butter M&Ms, or mini Butterfingers are fun alternatives.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s sweet, fun, and easy enough for kids to help decorate.
14. Perfect Occasions to Serve This Cake
🎉 Birthday parties
🎁 Holiday gatherings
👨👩👧👦 Family movie night
📦 Bake sales
🏫 School events
🍽 Potlucks and cookouts
15. Pairings: What Goes Well With Reese’s Poke Cake
- Vanilla Ice Cream – classic pairing
- Coffee or Espresso – balances sweetness
- Milkshakes – because why not go all in?
- Salted Pretzels – for a salty crunch contrast
16. Kids in the Kitchen: A Fun Family Recipe
Kids love:
- Unwrapping and chopping Reese’s
- Poking the cake (they’ll love this step)
- Sprinkling candy and drizzling peanut butter
It’s a great recipe for beginners and a perfect bonding moment.
17. Healthier Swaps (Optional)
- Use a sugar-free cake mix and light whipped topping
- Opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar
- Swap Reese’s with dark chocolate chips and nuts
18. Final Thoughts
Reese’s Poke Cake is one of those magical desserts that checks all the boxes: it’s easy, impressive, customizable, and absolutely decadent. Whether you’re making it for yourself or a crowd, it never disappoints. If you’re a fan of chocolate, peanut butter, and effortless baking, this will become your go-to dessert in no time.
19. Printable Recipe Card
markdownCopyEdit**Reese’s Poke Cake – Easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Dessert**
**Prep Time:** 15 mins
**Cook Time:** 30 mins
**Total Time:** 45 mins
**Servings:** 12 slices
**Ingredients**
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus required ingredients)
- 1 cup chocolate syrup
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s
- 1/4 cup melted peanut butter
**Instructions**
1. Bake the cake in a 9x13 pan per box instructions. Let cool 10–15 mins.
2. Poke holes all over the cake with a spoon handle.
3. Pour chocolate syrup over the cake and let absorb.
4. Spread whipped topping over the cake.
5. Sprinkle chopped Reese’s on top.
6. Drizzle with melted peanut butter.
7. Chill 1 hour before serving.
20. Related Recipes You’ll Crave
- Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
- Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Trifle
- Cake Pops with Chocolate Ganache
- Caramel Pretzel Poke Cake
- Pineapple Condensed Milk Cake
