Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake

Savor every bite of Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake, a sumptuous dessert that seamlessly blends the sweet tanginess of cherries with the richness of chocolate. This moist cake boasts a base infused with cherry juice, generously studded with mini chocolate chips, and topped with creamy Cool Whip and cherries—a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

Prepare to create this delightful dessert with the following ingredients:

• 1 box (15 oz) white cake mix (or vanilla)
• 3/4 cup (177 ml) milk
• 1/3 cup (79 ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (118 ml) maraschino cherry juice (from a 10-ounce jar)
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure almond extract (or vanilla)
• 1 1/4 cups (280 g) mini chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons (18 g) all-purpose flour
• 10 maraschino cherries, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip
• 3 tablespoons hot fudge sauce, for garnish

 Directions:

1. Prepare the Cake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, cherry juice, egg whites, and almond extract. Beat until thoroughly mixed.
• In a small plastic bag, toss mini chocolate chips with flour to coat. Fold the coated chocolate chips and chopped cherries into the batter, reserving some chocolate chips for topping.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly over the top.
• Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

2. Poke and Top the Cake

• Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a small round object to poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake.
• Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes evenly.
• Spread Cool Whip over the top of the cake, covering it completely.
• Drizzle with hot fudge sauce and garnish with additional maraschino cherries for a decorative finish.

Serving and Storage Tips :

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Serve each slice with an extra drizzle of hot fudge sauce and a cherry on top for added visual appeal.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
• For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Tips:

• If serving chilled cake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before serving.
• For a warm treat, microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium heat.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake with these serving and storage tips, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the first!

1. White Chocolate Cherry Poke Cake:
   • Use white chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips in the cake batter. Drizzle melted white chocolate over the Cool Whip topping for a creamy twist.
2. Cherry Almond Poke Cake:
   • Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the cake batter along with the cherry juice. Garnish with sliced almonds on top of the Cool Whip.
3. Double Chocolate Cherry Poke Cake:
   • Mix cocoa powder into the cake batter for a richer chocolate flavor. Use chocolate syrup instead of hot fudge sauce for drizzling.
4. Black Forest Poke Cake:
   • Substitute cherry pie filling for the chopped cherries in the cake batter. Layer with chocolate shavings and whipped cream between the cake and Cool Whip topping.
5. Nutty Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake:
   • Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the cake batter for added crunch and texture. Sprinkle extra nuts on top before serving.
6. Coconut Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake:
   • Add shredded coconut to the cake batter for a tropical twist. Top with toasted coconut flakes along with the cherries and hot fudge sauce.
7. Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake:
   • Swirl cream cheese into the cake batter for a creamy texture. Top with cherry pie filling and a dollop of whipped cream or Cool Whip.
8. Spiced Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake:
   • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor. Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
9. Orange Chocolate Chip Poke Cake:
   • Substitute orange juice and zest for the cherry juice. Use mini orange-flavored chocolate chips in the batter and top with orange zest.
10. Mocha Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake:
    • Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cake batter along with the cherry juice. Drizzle with chocolate-coffee sauce instead of hot fudge.

These variations offer a variety of flavors and textures to customize your Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake and create a dessert that suits your taste preferences and occasion. Enjoy exploring these delicious twists!

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor instead of white or vanilla?
   • Yes, you can experiment with different cake mix flavors such as chocolate, yellow, or even cherry-flavored cake mix to complement the cherry and chocolate theme.
2. What can I use instead of maraschino cherry juice?
   • If you prefer a different flavor or don’t have maraschino cherry juice, you can use cherry juice concentrate, cherry preserves mixed with a little water, or even cherry-flavored soda.
3. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
   • Absolutely! Fresh cherries, pitted and chopped, can be used instead of maraschino cherries for a more natural flavor. Adjust sweetness accordingly.
4. How long should I let the cake cool before poking holes and adding the sweetened condensed milk?
   • It’s best to let the cake cool completely to room temperature before poking holes and pouring the sweetened condensed milk. This allows the cake to absorb the milk evenly.
5. Do I need to refrigerate Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake?
   • Yes, due to the use of dairy products like milk, sweetened condensed milk, and Cool Whip, it’s essential to refrigerate the cake. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
6. Can I make Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated, but add the Cool Whip and toppings just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
7. How can I prevent the Cool Whip from melting or becoming watery?
   • Ensure the cake is completely cooled before spreading Cool Whip on top. Also, refrigerate the Cool Whip until you’re ready to use it, and keep the cake chilled until serving.
8. Can I freeze Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake?
   • While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy-based toppings. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if freezing, wrap tightly and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
9. What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
   • If you prefer, you can use freshly whipped cream stabilized with a little powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Ensure it’s firm enough to spread over the cake.
10. How long will Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake stay fresh?
    • When stored properly in the refrigerator, Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Enjoy it within this timeframe for the best taste and texture.

These FAQs should provide helpful tips and answers to common questions about making and enjoying Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake. Enjoy creating and savoring this delightful dessert!

Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that promises to impress with its blend of cherry sweetness and chocolate richness. Whether for a family gathering or a special celebration, this recipe offers a decadent and easy-to-make treat that everyone will love. Enjoy the flavors and textures of this irresistible cake and make every occasion sweeter with this delightful creation!