This Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake combines the best of both worlds—rich chocolate cake and sweet, tart cherries, topped off with creamy whipped topping and chocolate chips. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a dessert that’s simple yet indulgent, this cake is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix
Ingredients required to prepare cake mix (typically eggs, oil, and water)
1 can cherry pie filling
1 cup chocolate chips
1 container whipped topping

Directions

Prepare and bake the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
Once the cake is baked and cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
Pour the cherry pie filling over the cake, spreading it out and allowing it to fill the holes.
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the cake.
Spread whipped topping over the cake, covering the chocolate chips.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Fruit Toppings: Instead of cherry pie filling, try using other fruit fillings like strawberry or blueberry for a different flavor.
Nutty Twist: Add crushed nuts such as walnuts or almonds on top of the chocolate chips for extra crunch.
Layered Poke Cake: For a more decadent version, use a layer of cream cheese or chocolate pudding under the whipped topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover poke cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly to maintain freshness.
Reheating: The cake is best served chilled, but if you prefer it warm, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds.

10 FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix? Yes, you can use any type of cake mix you prefer, such as vanilla or red velvet, but chocolate works particularly well with the cherry filling.
Can I make this cake without the whipped topping? Yes, if you prefer, you can use a different topping such as cream cheese frosting, or even just serve it plain with the cherry filling and chocolate chips.
How do I prevent the whipped topping from melting? Make sure the cake has cooled down completely before adding the whipped topping. Also, chilling the cake for at least an hour helps keep the topping firm.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling? Fresh cherries can be used, but you would need to make a simple syrup to coat them, as the pie filling adds both flavor and moisture to the cake.
How long should I let the cake cool before poking holes in it? Allow the cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes before poking holes to prevent the filling from running off the cake.
Can I freeze this cake? You can freeze the cake, but the whipped topping may not hold up well after freezing. It’s best to freeze the cake portion and add the topping after thawing.
What can I substitute for whipped topping? You can use homemade whipped cream or a thick layer of frosting as an alternative to store-bought whipped topping.
Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, this cake actually benefits from chilling in the fridge, so it’s a great make-ahead dessert.
How do I make sure the cake doesn’t dry out? By poking holes into the cake while it’s still warm and adding the cherry pie filling, you’ll ensure the cake stays moist.
Can I add more chocolate to this recipe? Absolutely! You can mix chocolate chips directly into the cake batter before baking, or even drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the whipped topping for an extra chocolaty finish.

Conclusion

The Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. With its sweet cherry filling, rich chocolate cake, and creamy topping, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, party, or simply as an indulgent dessert, this poke cake will surely impress everyone at the table!