This Boston Cream Poke Cake is the ultimate shortcut dessert! Moist yellow cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and rich chocolate frosting come together in the easiest, most irresistible treat!
Ever had one of those lightbulb moments in the kitchen? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I made this Boston Cream Poke Cake. I love Boston Cream Pie, but let’s be real—it’s kind of a commitment. Between baking the layers, making the custard, and whipping up the ganache, it feels like a full-day event.
One day, I was craving all those flavors but had zero patience for an elaborate dessert. That’s when I thought—what if I just made a poke cake? I baked a simple yellow cake, poured pudding into the holes, and topped it with warm, melty chocolate frosting. One bite in, and I knew this was it.
It was everything I love about Boston Cream Pie—minus the stress. And the best part? My family devoured it so fast, I barely had time to take a picture. Now, anytime I need a foolproof dessert that wows without effort, this is my go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Boston Cream Poke Cake Recipe?
- All the flavors of Boston Cream Pie—but easier!
- Super moist and creamy. The pudding soaks right into the cake, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, potluck, or random Tuesday, this cake always hits the spot.
- Done in under an hour! Because who has time for complicated desserts?
Ingredient Notes:
Let’s talk about the key ingredients and how you can tweak them:
- Yellow Cake Mix – It’s quick and easy, but if you’re feeling fancy, you can totally make a scratch cake.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding – French vanilla gives a little extra oomph, but regular vanilla is just as good.
- Milk – Whole milk makes the pudding extra creamy, but 2% or almond milk work too.
- Chocolate Frosting – Store-bought keeps it simple, but a quick ganache (melted chocolate + heavy cream) takes it up a notch.
How To Make Boston Cream Poke Cake?
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then prepare the yellow cake mix as directed on the box (adding eggs, oil, and water). Bake for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Step 2: Poke & Fill with Pudding
While the cake is still warm, grab the handle of a wooden spoon and poke a bunch of holes all over it—about an inch apart. The more holes, the better!
In a bowl, whisk together two boxes of instant vanilla pudding and 4 cups of milk until smooth. Then, pour it all over the cake, making sure it seeps into every hole.
Step 3: Chill Time!
Pop the cake in the fridge and let it chill for 2 hours. This helps the pudding soak in and set up perfectly.
Step 4: Frost with Chocolate
Want To Save This Recipe?
Scoop the chocolate frosting into a microwave-safe bowl and warm it for 10-15 seconds until it’s soft and spreadable. Carefully spread it over the chilled cake in an even layer.
Step 5: Slice & Serve!
For best results, let it chill for another 30 minutes before slicing. Then, dig in and enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite!
Storage Options:
If you somehow don’t finish the whole thing in one sitting (impressive restraint, by the way), here’s how to store it:
- Fridge: Cover and store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight before serving.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to mix things up? Here are some ideas:
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream – Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for an ultra-rich version.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle toasted almonds or crushed peanuts on top before the frosting sets.
- Homemade Ganache – Melt semi-sweet chocolate with a splash of cream for a glossy, rich topping.
- Gluten-Free Version – Just swap in a gluten-free cake mix—everything else stays the same!
What to Serve with Boston Cream Poke Cake?
This cake is already perfect on its own, but if you want to go the extra mile, try:
- Whipped Cream – Because why not add more creaminess?
- Coffee or Espresso – The slight bitterness balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Fresh Berries – Strawberries or raspberries make an amazing tart contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day because the pudding gets even more soaked in.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Of course! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before pouring it over the cake so it doesn’t melt everything.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of frosting?
Yes! If you want a lighter, fluffier version, swap the chocolate frosting for Cool Whip.
If you love easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, this Boston Cream Poke Cake is a must-try. It’s rich, creamy, chocolatey, and ridiculously easy to make. Basically, the dream dessert.
So, what do you think? Will you be making this for your next get-together? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turns out!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Boston Cream Poke Cake
Ingredients
- 15.25 oz box yellow cake mix
- Ingredients needed to make cake: eggs oil, and water
- 2 3.4 oz boxes INSTANT vanilla or French vanilla pudding
- 4 c milk
- 16 oz tub chocolate frosting
Instructions
- Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions provided on the box. Bake it in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Once the cake is baked, while it's still warm use a fork to poke holes across it making sure they are 1 inch apart.
- In a bowl mix together the pudding with 4 cups of milk until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Pour the pudding over the cake making sure it fills up all the holes evenly.
- Place the cake in the refrigerator. Let it chill for 2 hours.
- Warm up the chocolate frosting in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds until it becomes slightly runny.
- Carefully. Spread the frosting, over the cooled cake ensuring that it covers all areas evenly.
- Allow some time for the cake to set in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
