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Hot Cocoa Poke Cake Recipe

4.6 from 220 reviews

This Hot Cocoa Poke Cake is a delightful chocolate dessert that combines a moist chocolate cake base with creamy marshmallow filling and a rich hot cocoa whipped topping. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this cake is easy to make and beautifully decorated with marshmallow bits and chocolate shavings for an indulgent treat that tastes like a cozy cup of hot cocoa.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box (usually eggs, oil, water)

Marshmallow Filling

  • 2 cups marshmallow creme
  • 1 Tbsp. water

Whipped Cocoa Topping

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 packets hot cocoa mix (about 3.5 to 4 oz total)

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup marshmallow bits
  • 2 Tbsp. chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and grease a 9″ x 13″ baking pan. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions—this typically includes combining the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water—and pour the batter into the greased pan. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly.
  2. Poke the Cake and Add Marshmallow Filling: Using the bottom of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the baked cake, making sure to reach through to the bottom. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the marshmallow creme and water, then microwave for 10 seconds and stir until smooth. Pour this marshmallow mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes. This creates a sweet, gooey texture inside the cake.
  3. Make the Hot Cocoa Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy cream and hot cocoa mix. Using a hand mixer, whip the mixture on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This whipped topping is rich and fluffy with a delicious cocoa flavor.
  4. Frost and Garnish the Cake: Spread the hot cocoa whipped cream evenly over the marshmallow-filled cake. Finally, garnish the top with marshmallow bits and chocolate shavings to add texture and enhance the hot cocoa theme. Chill the cake slightly if desired and serve.

Notes

  • Ensure the heavy cream is cold before whipping for best results.
  • You can substitute homemade marshmallow creme if preferred.
  • Chocolate shavings can be made using a vegetable peeler on a chocolate bar.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If marshmallow bits are unavailable, mini marshmallows can be chopped and toasted for garnish.

Keywords: Hot Cocoa Poke Cake, Chocolate Cake, Marshmallow Cake, Hot Cocoa Dessert, Easy Chocolate Cake