Better Than Sex Cake

This is the dessert I make when I want something jaw-dropping with almost no fuss. Better Than Sex Cake takes a humble box of chocolate cake mix and turns it into a show-stopping poke cake drenched with silky caramel and sweetened condensed milk, then finished with fluffy whipped cream and a shower of chocolate and toffee bits. It is as outrageous as it sounds and ridiculously easy to put together.

I first made this cake when I needed something sweet for our family’s movie night I was shocked at how quickly the whole pan disappeared and now it is my most-requested celebration treat

Ingredients

• Box of chocolate fudge cake mix: gives you a deep chocolatey base with no hassle Look for a moist-style variety if possible
• Chocolate pudding mix: makes the crumb extra tender and rich Choose a reputable brand for best flavor
• Whole milk: adds moisture and creaminess Fresh whole milk gives you a velvety cake texture
• Vegetable oil: keeps the cake soft and light Make sure your oil is fresh for the best results
• Large eggs: help the cake rise and bring everything together I like to use eggs at room temperature
• Can of sweetened condensed milk: soaks into every poke and makes it decadent Use a name brand so it thickens properly
• Caramel sauce: adds gooey flavor throughout I pick a thick caramel with a deep golden color
• Tub of whipped topping: creates that signature cloud-like layer For natural flavor let it thaw in the fridge overnight
• Toffee bits: bring a buttery crunch Try to find ones that are real toffee rather than just hard candy
• Chopped chocolate bar: adds luxurious texture and extra chocolate flavor I love using a classic milk chocolate bar like Hershey’s

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cake Pan:

Spray a 9 x 13 inch cake pan with nonstick spray and make sure you cover the bottom and sides evenly This will help your cake release easily after chilling

Mix the Batter:

Combine chocolate cake mix chocolate pudding mix whole milk vegetable oil and large eggs in a large mixing bowl Stir until everything is one even color and there are no lumps This is your only chance to get rid of dry spots so be thorough

Bake the Cake:

Pour the smooth batter into the greased cake pan Spread it out with a spatula then bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 to 35 minutes Check doneness with a toothpick in the center it should come out just barely clean

Poke the Cake:

Right after you pull it from the oven use the end of a wooden spoon or a chopstick to poke holes about two thirds of the way down throughout the whole cake Keep the holes close together but not so many that the cake falls apart

Cool the Cake:

Let the cake rest for around 20 or 30 minutes until it’s just warm to the touch This helps the toppings absorb better without making the whipped topping melt

Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Caramel:

Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk all over letting it seep into every poke hole Pour half the caramel sauce in the same way Do not rush this step or the top will get soggy instead of moist

Spread the Whipped Topping:

Carefully scoop whipped topping all over the top and use an offset spatula to spread it out into an even cloud Make sure to go all the way to the edges for a pretty finish

Finish with Toppings:

Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce in wavy lines over the top then scatter the toffee bits and chopped chocolate evenly This makes every bite a mix of creamy crunchy and gooey

Chill and Serve:

Place the pan uncovered in the refrigerator for at least one hour This helps the cake firm up and lets the flavors mingle Slice when cold and serve straight from the fridge

Pin it

Toffee bits are my guilty pleasure in this cake Every time I make it I remember my grandmother sneaking extra toffee on her slice and winking as if it was her secret to making it special

Storage Tips

Store the cake uncovered in the refrigerator for the first hour to help it set If you have leftovers cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and keep refrigerated for up to four days For longer storage cut the cake into portions wrap each tightly and freeze up to a month

Ingredient substitutions

You can use a yellow cake mix for a different but still delicious base If you do not have chocolate pudding vanilla or caramel pudding works in a pinch Whipped cream can be used in place of whipped topping for a less sweet but more natural flavor

Serving suggestions

This dessert is best served cold straight from the fridge I like to add a little extra caramel sauce on each slice for good measure You can also sprinkle more chocolate or toffee bits on top just before serving for extra crunch

Cultural and Historical Context

Poke cakes first became popular in the mid-20th century as a fun way to jazz up boxed cake mixes The Better Than Sex Cake is an American potluck classic known for its scandalous name and crowd-pleasing layers of flavor It is beloved precisely because it is simple sweet and easy for home cooks of all skill levels

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?

Yes, a homemade chocolate cake will work well. Just match the pan size and bake as usual before poking and soaking.

→ Why poke holes in the cake?

Poking holes lets the caramel and condensed milk soak deeply into the cake, ensuring every bite is rich and moist.

→ What toppings can I use besides toffee?

Try mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or even a drizzle of hot fudge for variation.

→ How long should I chill the cake?

Chill uncovered for at least one hour to set the flavors and firm up the cream layer before serving.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and chill up to a day in advance. Add final toppings right before serving for best texture.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the cream and toppings fresh and maintain the cake's texture.