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This Black Forest Poke Cake brings all the classic flavors of a beloved German dessert into the world’s simplest chocolate poke cake. The combination of moist chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and a creamy topping makes every bite irresistible for celebrations or any time you need an easy but crowd-pleasing treat.
I started making this at my daughter’s birthday because she loved Black Forest cake but I wanted something less fussy. After one slice everyone asked for the recipe
Ingredients
- Devil's food cake mix: adds rich chocolate flavor while keeping things easy to prepare just check for a reputable brand with deep cocoa notes
- Eggs, oil and water as needed for the cake mix: ensure you use fresh eggs and neutral oil for the best texture and taste
- Cherry gelatin mix: brings a punchy tart cherry flavor look for bright vibrant colored Jell O for the freshest taste
- Boiling water: helps fully dissolve the cherry gelatin for even flavor
- Cold water: cools the gelatin mixture down so it soaks into the cake properly filtered water helps for the purest results
- Cherry pie filling: brings big fruity bites to every forkful choose a filling with whole cherries for the most beautiful effect
- Whipped topping: makes the creamy cloudlike finishing layer Cool Whip holds up best in the fridge
- Mini chocolate chips (optional): but add a delightful chocolate crunch on top look for mini size so you get some in every bite
- Maraschino cherries (optional for garnish): these add a festive look just pat dry so the red syrup does not bleed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Cake:
- Prepare the devil’s food cake according to the package instructions using fresh eggs oil and water. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean and let it cool for five minutes on a wire rack. Cooling slightly allows for easier poking without tearing the cake
- Poke the Holes:
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon or another round utensil to gently poke holes all over the surface of the cake about two inches apart. Push down about three quarters of the way to ensure maximum filling absorption
- Mix the Cherry Gelatin:
- Dissolve cherry gelatin mix in one cup of boiling water in a heatproof bowl. Stir slowly so no clumps remain and the color is vibrant throughout
- Pour in Cold Water:
- Add half a cup of cold water to the gelatin mixture and whisk well until it feels cool to the touch. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy or gummy later
- Saturate the Cake:
- Carefully pour the cherry gelatin gradually over the entire cake aiming most of the liquid into the holes. Use a spoon if needed for even coverage. Place the cake in the fridge for two hours to let the flavors seep in and set
- Spread the Cherry Pie Filling:
- Once chilled gently spoon the cherry pie filling over the cake spreading cherries evenly so each piece will have whole cherries. Avoid pressing down too hard to keep the cake fluffy
- Top with Whipped Cream:
- Spoon whipped topping over the cherry layer smoothing it to all edges in a thick even layer. Chill in the fridge at least one more hour so the topping sets
- Add Garnishes and Serve:
- Scatter mini chocolate chips and maraschino cherries on top before slicing just before serving for an inviting look. Slice into twelve generous portions
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My favorite ingredient is definitely the cherry gelatin because it soaks the cake with tart cherry flavor. Making this together with my kids always becomes a laugh fest especially poking those holes
Storage Tips
Keep the cake covered in the fridge where it stays fresh and moist for up to four days. I usually use plastic wrap or a cake carrier. If making ahead you can wait to add the whipped topping and garnishes until just before serving for the freshest look
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip if you prefer a less sweet topping. If you want to use a different cake mix like classic chocolate or even vanilla it will still hold up but the cocoa flavor will be slightly lighter. For a big cherry flavor boost use a mix of cherry gelatin and black cherry gelatin together
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect after a hearty family meal or as part of a dessert buffet. I love offering it with a cup of hot coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. If you want a more dramatic look drizzle with a little melted chocolate before serving
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Cultural History
The original Black Forest cake comes from Germany known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte. Traditionally the cake layers are soaked with kirsch a cherry liqueur and topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. This recipe is the simpler American adaptation making it easy for home cooks to recreate the flavors with pantry staples
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of cake mix?
Yes, a homemade chocolate cake can be used. Ensure it fits a 9x13-inch pan for similar results.
- → What kind of cherry filling is best?
Canned cherry pie filling is recommended, as it offers the right consistency and flavor balance.
- → Can this dessert be prepared in advance?
Absolutely. It's best chilled for several hours or overnight, making it ideal to prepare ahead.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered and refrigerated for up to three days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are there garnish alternatives to cherries and chocolate chips?
Try shaved chocolate, extra whipped topping, or chopped toasted nuts for added flavor and flair.