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Boston Cream Poke Cake

Boston Cream Poke Cake

Boston Cream Poke Cake is a nostalgic and easy-to-make dessert that combines moist vanilla sponge cake with a rich instant vanilla pudding filling and a glossy chocolate topping. Using the poke technique, the pudding seeps into the cake creating a moist, flavorful treat that resembles classic Boston cream pie but requires minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is versatile, delicious, and impressive without complex steps.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base

  • 1 box vanilla cake mix (or gluten-free yellow cake mix for gluten-free)
  • Ingredients required for cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water) as per package instructions

Filling

  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk

Topping

  • Chocolate glaze or chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade ganache)
  • Optional: 2 tbsp butter (if making your own chocolate topping)

Instructions

  1. Bake the cake: Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions and bake it in a rectangular or square pan until the cake is golden and springy to the touch.
  2. Poke holes: After the cake has cooled slightly (warm but not hot), use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar tool to poke holes evenly spaced about an inch apart all over the surface of the cake to allow the pudding to soak in.
  3. Prepare the pudding: Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Pour the pudding evenly over the cake, gently pressing it into the holes to maximize flavor absorption.
  4. Chill the cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (overnight recommended for best results) to let the pudding set and seep deeply into the cake, creating a moist texture.
  5. Add the chocolate topping: Spread your chosen chocolate glaze or frosting evenly over the chilled cake surface for a smooth, shiny, and classic Boston Cream topping.

Notes

  • Cool the cake before poking holes to avoid cracks but keep it slightly warm for easier hole creation.
  • Ensure holes are evenly spaced for uniform pudding distribution.
  • Use cold milk to mix the pudding for optimal setting and absorption.
  • Chill the cake thoroughly to enhance flavor melding and texture.
  • Use thick chocolate ganache or frosting to prevent topping from sliding when cutting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Boston Cream Poke Cake, poke cake, vanilla cake, instant pudding, chocolate glaze, easy dessert