Name: Black Forest Poke Cake: A Delicious Cherry-Chocolate Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz); 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate

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Introduction

This Black Forest Poke Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining rich chocolate cake, sweet cherry filling, and fluffy whipped cream. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion when you want a crowd-pleasing treat.

A square cake slice sits on a white plate with a silver fork beside it on a red and white striped cloth. The cake has three main layers: the bottom layer is dark brown, moist chocolate cake, above it is a thick white cream layer mixed with bits of red cherries, and on top are decorative swirls of dark chocolate chocolate cream with bright red cherries placed evenly. The cake's sides show the moist texture of the chocolate cake and the creamy top with hints of cherry juice. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup water

1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz)
1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well mixed. Pour into the prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the warm cake. Immediately spoon the cherry pie filling over the surface, allowing the filling to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
Step 5: In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 6: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cooled cake. Garnish with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate on top.

Step 7: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of cherry liqueur or almond extract to the whipped cream.
You can substitute fresh or frozen cherries for the pie filling if preferred; just add a bit of sugar to sweeten.

Make sure the cake is warm (not hot) when adding the pie filling to ensure it soaks evenly.
Use high-quality dark chocolate shavings for a richer garnish.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve, and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing for best texture. Leftovers can be gently reheated in the microwave if desired, but it is typically enjoyed cold.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a slice of layered dessert on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark, crumbly chocolate cake. Above this is a thick, fluffy white cream layer, which is slightly uneven in texture. On top of the cream are fresh red raspberries and dollops of glossy dark chocolate sauce that drip slightly down the sides. The dark chocolate contrasts vividly with the bright red raspberries and white cream, making the dessert look rich and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a boxed mix?

Yes, you can substitute your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Just make sure it has a similar texture and bake it in the same pan size for consistent results.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream for the topping?

If you don’t have heavy cream, try chilled coconut cream whipped with powdered sugar and vanilla for a dairy-free alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.