Chocolate Strawberry Poke Cake

This moist chocolate poke cake infused with sweet strawberry goodness and topped with fluffy whipped cream is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
• 1 cup (240ml) strawberry syrup (store-bought or homemade)

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 3 tbsp (30g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (200g) fresh strawberries, diced

Optional Garnishes:

• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Whole strawberries
• Drizzle of chocolate syrup

Instructions:

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for the time specified on the box, typically 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Make the Poke Holes

1. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly across the cake, about 1 inch apart.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Syrup

1. Warm the strawberry syrup slightly to make it easier to pour (optional).
2. Drizzle the syrup over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
3. Let the cake cool completely, allowing the syrup to soak in fully.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cooled cake.
2. Sprinkle the diced strawberries over the top.

Step 6: Decorate and Serve

1. Garnish with chocolate shavings, whole strawberries, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra touch.
2. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Tips:

• For a homemade strawberry syrup, simmer 1 cup of strawberries, ½ cup sugar, and ¼ cup water until syrupy, then strain.
• Swap whipped cream for cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
• Keep the cake refrigerated and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Enjoy your Chocolate Strawberry Poke Cake—a delightful combination of chocolatey richness and strawberry sweetness!