Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chocolate Orange Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, indulgent flavor of chocolate with the bright, zesty notes of orange. This cake is soft, moist, and filled with a creamy, flavorful orange filling that soaks into every bite. Perfect for any special occasion or a fun treat, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its irresistible combination of flavors.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)instant chocolate pudding mixmilkwhipped toppingorange zestorange juicepowdered sugar
directions
Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions and bake it in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
While the cake is baking, prepare the orange filling. In a bowl, mix together the instant chocolate pudding mix, milk, orange zest, orange juice, and powdered sugar until smooth.
Once the cake is done baking, let it cool slightly. Use the end of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
Pour the orange filling over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
Before serving, spread whipped topping over the top of the cake for a creamy finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 30 minutesChilling time: 2 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Variations
Add chocolate chips or mini orange candies on top for extra texture.
Use orange-flavored pudding mix for a more intense citrus flavor.
Swap the whipped topping for chocolate ganache for a richer finish.
Top with grated dark chocolate or orange peel for garnish.
storage/reheating
Store the Chocolate Orange Poke Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.The cake is best served chilled, and it does not need reheating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?
Yes, you can make a homemade chocolate cake, but the poke cake technique works best with a moist cake, so make sure it’s a recipe that stays soft.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of bottled?
Yes, fresh orange juice works wonderfully and adds a more vibrant flavor.
Can I make the orange filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orange filling and store it in the fridge until ready to pour over the cake.
Can I freeze this cake?
It’s best to enjoy this cake fresh, but you can freeze it without the whipped topping for up to 1 month. Let it thaw before serving and add the topping.
Why did my cake not soak up the filling?
Ensure that the cake is still slightly warm when you pour the filling over it, so it soaks in better.
Can I use a different flavor of pudding?
Absolutely! Vanilla or white chocolate pudding would also pair well with the orange flavor.
Conclusion
Chocolate Orange Poke Cake is a simple yet impressive dessert that brings together the best of chocolate and citrus in a moist, delicious treat. With its creamy orange filling and light whipped topping, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating or just indulging in a sweet craving. This cake is bound to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Print
Chocolate Orange Poke Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent, moist chocolate cake infused with a burst of orange flavor, topped with a creamy orange filling and a rich chocolate ganache.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package directions and bake as directed. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
- While the cake is still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
- In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, orange juice, and orange zest. Pour this mixture evenly over the warm cake, ensuring it soaks into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips and butter. Stir until smooth and glossy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the cooled cake, spreading it to cover the top.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream before serving for extra creaminess and decoration.
Notes
- This cake can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld together.
- If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, you can add more orange zest or a splash of orange liqueur to the ganache.
- For a smoother ganache, make sure the cream is not too hot when adding the chocolate chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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