If you’re searching for an easy yet show-stopping dessert that blends rich chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and velvety whipped cream into every forkful, this Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake is your answer. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears within minutes at any gathering and leaves everyone begging for the recipe.

This cake takes a simple boxed mix and transforms it into something spectacular with the magic of marshmallow crème, sweetened condensed milk, and warm fudge sauce. Each bite is moist, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, potluck, or just because your sweet tooth is calling, this poke cake delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is for anyone who:

• Loves rich, chocolatey desserts that are easy to make

• Wants a foolproof, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s always a hit

• Has a soft spot for marshmallows and fudge (who doesn’t?)

• Needs a make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day

Plus, it’s incredibly easy—minimal prep, basic ingredients, and no special baking skills required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to create this dreamy dessert:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box – typically eggs, oil, and water)

• 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed

• 1 container whipped topping (like Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)

• Chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows, for garnish (optional)

Pro Tip: Use a high-quality cake mix like Devil’s Food for a deeper chocolate flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Bake the Cake

Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package directions. Bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and allow it to cool slightly (about 10–15 minutes). You want it warm but not piping hot.

2️⃣ Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Space the holes about 1 inch apart for best absorption.

3️⃣ Make the Marshmallow Mixture

Microwave the marshmallow creme in a bowl for 15–30 seconds until it’s pourable. Mix in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.

4️⃣ Chill the Cake

Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour, or until the marshmallow and milk mixture is fully absorbed and set.

5️⃣ Top with Whipped Topping

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Drizzle with warmed hot fudge sauce, and add chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows for extra flair.

6️⃣ Slice and Serve

Keep the cake chilled until ready to serve. Use a clean knife to slice, and prepare for applause.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking pan

• Mixing bowls

• Spoon or rubber spatula

• Wooden spoon (for poking holes)

• Microwave-safe bowl

• Measuring cups

• Offset spatula (optional, but helpful for spreading topping)

Make It Your Own: Variations & Add-Ins

This Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake is a great base for customization. Here are a few fun ideas to switch things up:

• S’mores Style: Add a graham cracker crust to the bottom or sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top.

• Peanut Butter Twist: Drizzle with melted peanut butter along with the fudge for a Reese’s-inspired dessert.

• Rocky Road: Fold chopped walnuts and mini marshmallows into the whipped topping.

• Oreo Overload: Top the cake with crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream version.

How to Store Leftovers

Good news—this cake keeps beautifully!

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor only gets better as it sits!

• Freezing: You can freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What to Serve With It

This cake is rich, so pairing it with a light drink works best:

• Coffee or espresso

• Cold milk (classic combo!)

• Hot chocolate for a cozy dessert pairing

• Baileys or Kahlúa for a boozy treat

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this cake tastes even better after chilling overnight. Just wait to add the whipped topping until you’re closer to serving time.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s stabilized (you can add a little powdered sugar or gelatin) if you plan to store it for more than a day.

What kind of chocolate cake mix is best?

Devil’s Food or dark chocolate cake mix works best for a deep, rich flavor, but any standard chocolate cake mix will do.

How far apart should I poke the holes?

About 1 inch apart is ideal. Too close and the cake might fall apart; too far and it won’t absorb enough filling.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake is everything we love about comfort food desserts—rich, creamy, gooey, and totally over-the-top in the best way. It’s incredibly simple to make but looks and tastes like a labor of love.

Whether you’re baking for a potluck, birthday bash, or just because you deserve dessert (you do), this cake is guaranteed to hit the sweet spot.

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