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Neapolitan poke cake

Neapolitan poke cake

Satisfy your sweet tooth with our Neapolitan poke cake recipe! A fun twist on a classic dessert, it's perfect for parties.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) white or vanilla cake mix (+ ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water)
  • 1/3 cup strawberry jam or puree
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup hot water

For the Poke Filling:

  • 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup sliced strawberries (optional)
  • 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Bake the Cake:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Prepare the vanilla cake mix as directed on the box. Pour batter into the pan.
  • In a small bowl, mix cocoa powder with hot water until smooth. In another bowl, stir the strawberry jam until smooth.
  • Drop spoonfuls of chocolate and strawberry mixtures randomly over the cake batter. Use a knife to swirl gently (don’t overmix).
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes.

Add the Poke Fillings:

  • Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake (about 1 inch apart).
  • Warm the sweetened condensed milk slightly (for easier pouring). Drizzle half over the cake.
  • Drizzle chocolate syrup over one-third of the cake and strawberry syrup over another third (leave some plain for vanilla flavor).

Chill & Frost:

  • Refrigerate for 3–4 hours (or overnight) to let the cake absorb the fillings.
  • Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake. Garnish with chocolate chips, strawberries, and sprinkles.
  • Slice and serve chilled. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Neapolitan poke cake, strawberry poke cake