WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Peppermint Poke Cake is that sweet winter escape baked right into a pan. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly brings out holiday spirit, no matter the time of year. With rich chocolate cake soaked in peppermint pudding and topped with fluffy whipped cream and crushed candy canes, this treat is as festive as it is indulgent.

The beauty of a poke cake lies in its texture. The little holes soak up creamy pudding like a sponge, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The peppermint twist keeps it refreshing and cool, perfect for those who love a dessert that balances rich and light flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Poke Cake

This dessert is a must-bake if you’re looking for something easy to assemble but visually stunning. It doesn’t require fancy frosting skills or complicated layering. Just bake, poke, pour, chill, and top. The end result is a show-stopping slice with bold holiday flavor and a creamy texture everyone loves.

Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a weekend treat with the family, this cake can be made ahead and gets better as it sits. And let’s be honest, peppermint and chocolate are one of those flavor combinations that never go out of style.

Can I Use Any Chocolate Cake Mix?

Yes, but try to go with a rich, moist one. Devil’s food cake mix works wonderfully here because of its intense chocolate flavor and soft crumb. If you’re up for baking from scratch, even better. Just make sure the cake has a deep enough flavor to complement the peppermint.

Ingredients for the Peppermint Poke Cake

The magic of this recipe lies in its few, easy-to-find ingredients that come together in a surprisingly delicious way.

• Chocolate cake mix
• Peppermint pudding mix
• Milk
• Whipped topping
• Crushed candy canes
• Peppermint extract

The chocolate cake mix sets the foundation with rich cocoa flavor. Peppermint pudding mix adds that creamy, minty goodness once poured into the poked holes. Milk brings the pudding together and ensures it’s smooth and pourable. A thick layer of whipped topping brings lightness to the dessert, while crushed candy canes give crunch and seasonal flair. A dash of peppermint extract enhances the freshness of the entire dish.

How To Make the Peppermint Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare your chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool slightly once out of the oven.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake while it’s still warm. Be generous – this is where all the peppermint flavor sneaks in.

Step 3: Make the Pudding

Whisk together the peppermint pudding mix, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Work quickly so it doesn’t set too much before pouring.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Carefully pour the pudding over the cake, making sure it seeps into every hole. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have time.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Once chilled, top the cake with a thick layer of whipped topping and sprinkle generously with crushed candy canes.

How to Serve and Store This Cool and Creamy Cake

This Peppermint Poke Cake serves about 12 to 16 people, depending on how generous your slices are. It’s the ideal make-ahead dessert. After assembling and chilling, it stays fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. The pudding sets up beautifully, and the whipped topping stays fluffy. Keep it in the same pan you baked it in and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid.

What to Serve With Peppermint Poke Cake?

Hot Chocolate

The warm drink contrasts nicely with the chilled cake and doubles up on the chocolatey goodness.

Espresso or Coffee

A rich, strong cup of coffee enhances the cocoa flavors and balances the sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Scoop it right beside the cake for an extra creamy dessert duo.

Peppermint Mocha

Stick with the theme and make a peppermint mocha to sip alongside your slice.

Fresh Berries

Their tartness cuts through the sweetness, especially if you’re serving this cake outside the holiday season.

Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

Warm up a quick ganache and pour it over the top for added indulgence.

Holiday Cookies

Add a few festive cookies on the side for a full dessert platter.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Peppermint Poke Cake, you’ll definitely want to try these fun bakes too:

• Southern Hummingbird Cake for fruity warmth and spice.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread if you’re after dense, chocolate-loaded bites.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls for a fruity swirl in every bite.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread when you crave chocolate and peanut butter.
• Easy Banana Cream Pie if you prefer creamy, fruity flavors with a crunch.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you top it with chocolate drizzle? Add extra peppermint? Maybe even swap the cake flavor?

I love hearing how you all make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other bake better.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Peppermint Poke Cake is more than just a holiday treat. It’s the kind of dessert you can whip up when you need something cool, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. With layers of texture, pops of mint, and rich chocolate, it checks all the boxes. Make it once, and you’ll be waiting for the next excuse to serve it again.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?