Reese’s Poke Cake – A Decadent Dessert Explosion of Chocolate & Peanut Butter

When it comes to indulgent, crowd-pleasing desserts, few things can top a Reese’s Poke Cake. Combining the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the ooey-gooey richness of a poke cake, this dessert is the ultimate treat for candy lovers, birthday parties, potlucks, or any time you need a show-stopping sweet.

This recipe is not only ridiculously delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Starting with a boxed cake mix, we poke holes into the freshly baked cake, fill them with sweetened condensed milk, hot fudge, and peanut butter, then top it all with whipped cream and chopped mini Reese’s. It’s every bit as dreamy as it sounds.

Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Poke Cake

This isn’t just any chocolate cake — it’s a next-level dessert that delivers everything you love in a peanut butter cup, with the rich, moist consistency only a poke cake can offer.

✅ Moist, gooey, and indulgent in every bite
✅ No-fail recipe perfect for beginners
✅ Make-ahead friendly – even better the next day!
✅ Loaded with chocolate and peanut butter flavor
✅ Loved by kids and adults alike

Whether you’re baking for a party or just a weekday indulgence, this cake is guaranteed to disappear fast.

What Is a Poke Cake?

A poke cake is a cake that’s poked all over after baking, then drenched in delicious fillings like pudding, condensed milk, sauces, or jello. The result? A super moist, flavor-packed cake that soaks up all the good stuff and creates pockets of gooey, rich flavor inside.

In this case, we’re going with:

Sweetened condensed milk
Hot fudge sauce
Melted peanut butter

Each layer adds depth, sweetness, and irresistible texture.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this show-stopping dessert:

Reese’s Poke Cake

Cake Base:

1 box chocolate cake mix
Ingredients listed on box (usually eggs, water, oil)

For the Filling:

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 jar hot fudge sauce, warmed
1 cup peanut butter, melted slightly

Topping:

1 tub whipped topping (Cool Whip)
½ cup prepared chocolate pudding (optional but adds creaminess)
1 cup mini Reese’s cups, halved or chopped
Caramel drizzle (optional)

How to Make Reese’s Poke Cake – Step-by-Step

Let’s walk through how to bring this cake to life.

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat oven and prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package directions.
Pour into a 9×13” baking pan and bake as directed.
Let cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

While still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake (about 1 inch apart).
Be generous — these holes are where the magic happens!

Step 3: Add the Fillings

Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
Drizzle the hot fudge over the top, followed by the melted peanut butter.
Spread gently with a spatula to distribute evenly.
Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a bowl, mix whipped topping with pudding (if using) for extra richness.
Spread over the chilled cake.
Swirl a little extra peanut butter over the top for visual appeal.
Sprinkle with chopped mini Reese’s.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least another hour, or until ready to serve.
Cut into squares and serve cold — and watch them disappear!

Tips for Perfect Poke Cake Texture

To get that dreamy, moist consistency and distinct “poke” pockets of flavor, follow these tips:

Poke while warm – the cake absorbs fillings better when it’s still warm
Use a wooden spoon handle – creates holes that are just the right size
Don’t skimp on filling – more drizzle = more flavor
Let it chill – chilling sets the cake and melds all the layers beautifully
Use offset spatulas for smoother topping layers

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

Want to personalize your Reese’s Poke Cake? Try these creative ideas:

Flavor Variations:

Peanut Butter & Banana: Add sliced bananas between the cake and topping layer
Mocha Reese’s: Mix espresso powder into your cake batter
Salted Caramel: Add a drizzle of sea salt caramel on top before serving
Crunchy Layer: Add chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels on top for a salty crunch

Topping Ideas:

Crushed Oreos
Mini M&Ms
Chocolate shavings
Peanut butter chips
Drizzle of melted white chocolate

This cake is your canvas — go wild!

How to Store and Serve

Storage:

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Best served cold (but can sit at room temp for 15–20 mins before serving)

Freezing:

Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil
Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving

Final Thoughts

Reese’s Poke Cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a chocolate-peanut butter dream come true. With layers of flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and simple steps, this cake is perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself on an ordinary day.