S’mores Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that captures the magic of campfire s’mores in an easy, show-stopping treat, you need to try this S’mores Poke Cake Recipe. This cake transforms classic s’mores into a moist, luscious dessert with gooey pockets of chocolate and marshmallow, topped with a dreamy chocolate cheesecake layer. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering and a delightful way to enjoy all those nostalgic flavors without even lighting a fire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this S’mores Poke Cake Recipe plays a crucial role, marrying texture, flavor, and indulgence seamlessly. From the buttery richness to the sweet, creamy layers, everything comes together with simple, easy-to-find pantry staples.

• White cake mix: The soft, fluffy base that’s easy to prep and perfect for soaking up delicious fillings.
• Marshmallows (14 regular size): These melt into velvety pockets of gooey sweetness inside the cake.
• Chocolate chips (1 cup): Provide that rich, melty chocolate that s’mores are famous for.
• Butter (1 tbsp, unsalted): Adds a silky smoothness and helps the chocolate and marshmallows melt perfectly.
• Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can, divided): Brings creamy sweetness and moisture to both the filling and topping layers.
• Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): Creates a luscious cheesecake layer that balances sweetness with tanginess.
• Powdered sugar (½ cup): Sweetens and smooths the cheesecake layer.
• Cocoa powder (2 tbsp, unsweetened): Adds deep chocolate flavor and richness to the cheesecake topping.
• Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to light perfection, it makes the topping luxuriously creamy.
• Graham crackers: For garnish, adding crunch and the classic s’mores touch.

How to Make S’mores Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Start by baking your white cake mix exactly according to the package directions. This ensures a soft, fluffy cake that will be the perfect canvas for all the indulgent fillings to come. Once baked, let it cool partially on a wire rack—warm enough to soften the toppings but cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Using a wooden skewer or the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake. For this S’mores Poke Cake Recipe, bigger holes work best because they allow the chocolate and marshmallow mixture to seep deep inside, creating those irresistible gooey pockets.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Marshmallow Filling

Over low heat on the stovetop, melt the chocolate chips, marshmallows, and butter together. Stir continuously to create a smooth, melty chocolaty mixture that’s thick and glossy—this is the heart of the s’mores experience.

Step 4: Sweeten the Filling

Once melted, stir in ¾ cup of the sweetened condensed milk. This adds richness and helps the filling spread easily into the poked holes, soaking into every nook and cranny.

Step 5: Pour the Filling Over the Cake

Carefully pour the warm chocolate and marshmallow mixture over the cake. Use a spoon or spatula to gently spread it around, making sure to push some of the filling firmly into the holes. This step locks in that melty goodness perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer

In a bowl, cream together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder with a hand mixer until you achieve a smooth, luscious texture. This rich chocolate layer will bring balance and a velvety feel to the dessert.

Step 7: Add the Remaining Ingredients

To the cheesecake mixture, add the remaining sweetened condensed milk and heavy whipping cream. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s light and beautifully blended, ready to top the cake.

Step 8: Spread the Cheesecake Layer

Gently spread this decadent chocolate cheesecake layer evenly over the chocolate marshmallow filling. The contrast of creamy topping and gooey pockets underneath is what makes this S’mores Poke Cake Recipe such a crowd favorite.

Step 9: Chill the Cake

Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake topping to set perfectly, making every bite heavenly.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, decorate your cake with graham crackers, chunks of chocolate bars, and mini marshmallows to give that authentic s’mores look and an extra bit of crunch.

How to Serve S’mores Poke Cake Recipe

Garnishes

The visual appeal of this cake is elevated with graham cracker pieces, chocolate chunks, and marshmallow bits scattered on top. These add delightful textures and bring the nostalgic campfire treat right to your plate.

Side Dishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the rich layers perfectly. For a beverage, a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee works beautifully to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices with extra graham cracker crumbs sprinkled on the plate or drizzle some melted chocolate over each serving for a fancy touch. For a party, consider presenting the cake in clear glass trifle bowls layered with extra marshmallows for a fun twist on the classic poke cake style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake tightly covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually develop even more after a day, making each slice tastier. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent the cake from drying out.

Freezing

This S’mores Poke Cake Recipe freezes well. Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and place in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

While this cake is best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer a slightly warmer serving, let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the filling unevenly and change the texture.

FAQs

Can I make the cake from scratch instead of using a mix?

Absolutely! A homemade white cake works wonderfully if you prefer to avoid mixes. Just be sure it’s a sturdy cake that can hold up to the filling without becoming soggy.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute mascarpone or even a thick Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of powdered sugar for a lighter cheesecake layer, but cream cheese gives that classic tangy richness.

Can I use mini marshmallows instead of regular ones?

Mini marshmallows can be used, but regular size marshmallows melt more evenly into the filling, creating those perfect gooey pockets famous in s’mores.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, look for dairy-free cake mix, use vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, and coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How long does this S’mores Poke Cake Recipe stay fresh in the fridge?

Stored properly, it stays fresh for up to 4 days. After that, the texture may start to change, but the flavors remain delightful if consumed sooner.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a dessert that brings together nostalgia, simplicity, and indulgence all in one bite, and this S’mores Poke Cake Recipe does just that. Whether for a family gathering, a potluck, or just because, it’s a must-try that will have everyone asking for seconds. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful cake as much as I do!

Print