Cherry Chocolate Chip Poke Cake (Printable Format)

Juicy cherries, chocolate cake, and creamy pudding create an irresistible layered delight.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Cake Base

01 - 1 box chocolate cake mix
02 - 3 large eggs
03 - 1 cup water
04 - 1/3 cup vegetable oil

→ Cherry Filling

05 - 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
06 - 1/4 cup cherry juice

→ Chocolate Pudding Layer

07 - 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
08 - 2 cups milk

→ Toppings

09 - 1 cup whipped topping
10 - 1/2 cup chocolate chips
11 - Fresh cherries

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
02 - Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
03 - Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly across the surface of the cooled cake, spacing holes about 1 inch apart.
04 - In a bowl, combine cherry pie filling and cherry juice. Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
05 - In a separate bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Spread the pudding evenly over the cherry filling.
06 - Spread whipped topping over the pudding layer and sprinkle with chocolate chips. Garnish with fresh cherries as desired.
07 - Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding the cherry filling to prevent excess sogginess.
02 - For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and whipped topping with plant-based alternatives.