Prepare to fall in love with the most decadent and romantic dessert this Valentine's Day! This irresistible Chocolate Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it's a love letter baked to perfection. Imagine a rich, moist chocolate cake infused with sweet condensed milk, topped with fluffy whipped cream, and decorated with a romantic drizzle of chocolate and festive sprinkles. Whether you're planning a special date night or want to surprise your sweetheart, this show-stopping cake is guaranteed to make hearts flutter and taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate syrup
- 1/4 cup sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to ensure uniform thickness.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean with few crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the warm cake.
- Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to absorb the milk completely.
- Refrigerate the cake for 1-2 hours to cool and set completely.
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake, creating a smooth layer.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup in a decorative pattern across the whipped topping.
- Sprinkle Valentine's Day-themed or red and pink sprinkles over the top of the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for an additional 30 minutes before serving to allow the toppings to set.
- Slice into 12 even pieces and serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Make sure your cake is still warm when you poke the holes to ensure the sweetened condensed milk absorbs perfectly.
- Use a wooden spoon handle or the back of a chopstick to create evenly spaced holes for maximum flavor distribution.
- For an extra romantic touch, use heart-shaped sprinkles or red and pink decorative toppings.
- Chill the cake thoroughly before serving to allow all flavors to meld together.
- For a gourmet twist, consider adding a splash of liqueur to the condensed milk or using premium chocolate syrup.
- If you're short on time, you can use store-bought whipped topping, but homemade whipped cream will elevate the cake's flavor.
- The cake can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for stress-free Valentine's Day preparation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
