Peppermint Poke Cake (Printable)
Chocolate cake infused with minty vanilla pudding, chilled, topped with whipped topping and crushed peppermint candies.
# What You'll Need:
→ Cake Base
01 - 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
02 - 3 large eggs
03 - 1 cup water
04 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
→ Peppermint Pudding Filling
05 - 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
06 - 2 cups cold milk
07 - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
08 - 2 to 3 drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
→ Topping
09 - 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
10 - 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
11 - Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Blend with an electric mixer or hand whisk until smooth and homogenous.
03 - Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
04 - Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes.
05 - With the handle of a wooden spoon, create holes spaced about 1 inch apart across the cake surface.
06 - In a medium bowl, whisk instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring, if using, until thickened, about 2 minutes.
07 - Immediately pour prepared pudding over the cake, using a spatula to spread and press the mixture into the holes evenly.
08 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until pudding is fully set.
09 - Gently spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake surface.
10 - Scatter crushed peppermint candies and, if desired, chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips over the topping.
11 - Slice and serve the cake chilled.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It’s the absolute best way to turn box cake into something holiday-magic level, and I promise—no one will ever guess how easy it was.
- The flavor combo of cool peppermint, chocolate, and creamy pudding is irresistibly nostalgic yet always a little surprising.
02 -
- If the cake isn't fully cooled, the pudding will run straight through—patience is key.
- Using too much peppermint extract can quickly overpower, so measure carefully for a balanced flavor.
03 -
- Line your pan with parchment for easier lifting if you want to serve the cake on a platter.
- Shave chocolate with a vegetable peeler for restaurant-style curls that impress every time.