Introduction

This Hot Cocoa Poke Cake is a festive and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate cake with marshmallow and whipped topping infused with hot chocolate mix. It’s like enjoying a cup of hot cocoa in cake form—perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions.

The image shows a square piece of chocolate cake on a white plate with a silver fork. The cake has three visible layers: a moist dark brown chocolate base, a middle layer with shiny chocolate and creamy texture, and a top light brown whipped frosting sprinkled with mini white marshmallows and small dark chocolate chips. A bite-sized piece of the cake with frosting and marshmallows is held on the fork resting on the plate. The background has a soft white marbled texture with blurred bowls of tiny chocolate chips and marshmallows. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 15.25 ounce box of chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
1 7 ounce jar of marshmallow creme
2 tablespoons water
1 11.25 ounce jar of chocolate fudge sauce
1 8 ounce tub of whipped topping, thawed
2 packets of hot chocolate mix (¼ cup)
1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the directions on the box in a 9×13 inch pan. Once baked, allow the cake to cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Use the handle of a wooden spoon or the thick end of a chopstick to poke rows of holes in the cake, spaced about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the marshmallow creme and water. Microwave for 20 seconds, then stir until smooth and pourable. If too thick, microwave an additional 10 seconds and mix again.
Step 4: Pour the marshmallow mixture evenly over the cake, using a rubber spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it and gently press it down into the holes.
Step 5: Heat the chocolate fudge sauce following the jar’s instructions. Spread the warm fudge sauce over the entire cake and let it cool.
Step 6: In a medium bowl, fold the whipped topping together with the hot chocolate mix until well combined.
Step 7: Spread the chocolate-flavored whipped topping over the cake surface. Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
Step 8: Before serving, sprinkle mini marshmallows and mini chocolate chips over the top. Slice and enjoy your cozy dessert!

Tips & Variations

Use homemade chocolate fudge sauce if you prefer a richer flavor and fewer additives.
Try using flavored hot chocolate mix, such as peppermint or salted caramel, to give the cake a seasonal twist.
For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts over the top along with the marshmallows and chocolate chips.
Allow the cake to chill overnight for even more pronounced flavors and a moist texture.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the whipped topping’s texture. When ready to serve again, you can bring slices to room temperature or enjoy them cold. Avoid freezing this cake, as the texture of the whipped topping and marshmallow layer may be compromised.

How to Serve

A square piece of chocolate cake with two main layers sits on a white plate with a brown spoon holding a bite of cake in the front. The bottom layer is dark, moist chocolate cake, topped with a glossy dark chocolate filling mixed with creamy texture in the middle layer. The top layer is light brown whipped cream or frosting, decorated with small white marshmallows and scattered dark chocolate chips. The surface beneath the plate is a white marbled texture, with blurred bowls of mini marshmallows and chocolate chips visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch without using a box mix?

Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Just be sure the cake is fully cooled before poking holes and adding the fillings.

Is there a non-dairy alternative for the whipped topping?

Yes, you can use coconut whipped cream or any plant-based whipped topping to make this dessert dairy-free. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.