Description
A holiday favorite that’s just as magical to look at as it is to eat, this Peppermint Poke Cake combines moist chocolate cake, a creamy peppermint filling, and fluffy whipped topping for a dessert that brings festive cheer to every bite. With vibrant red and white layers and a candy cane crunch on top, it’s a winter wonderland on a plate. This is the perfect quick dessert for Christmas, a crowd-pleasing easy recipe, and one of the best dessert ideas for parties or potlucks.
Ingredients
1 box chocolate cake mix (plus box ingredients)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup heavy cream
0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
0.5 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
optional garnish mint leaves and whole candy canes
Instructions
1. Prepare and bake the chocolate cake according to package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Let cool for 15 minutes.
2. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and peppermint extract until smooth.
4. Slowly pour the mixture over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
5. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the peppermint filling to set.
6. Once chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly across the cake.
7. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top.
8. Garnish with mint leaves and whole candy canes if desired. Slice and serve.
Notes
Make sure the cake is completely cool before adding the peppermint filling.
Crush candy canes right before topping to avoid them melting or becoming sticky.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 33g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: peppermint cake, poke cake, holiday dessert, Christmas cake, easy dessert