Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

Name: Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (about 15.25 ounces, such as Devil’s Food flavor); 1 package (3.9 ounces) dark chocolate instant pudding mix; 4 large eggs; 0.5 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 1 package (4.2 ounces) Oreo instant pudding mix; 2 cups whole milk, cold; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 0.5 cup powdered sugar; 12 Oreo cookies, finely chopped

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: October 27, 2025

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Introduction to Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

Life is a whirlwind, isn’t it? Between family, work, and everything in between, the last thing on your mind might be baking an indulgent dessert. Fear not! This is where the Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake comes into your life as the ultimate lifesaver. Sumptuous chocolate cake with sweet and creamy Oreo pudding — toast to a glorious dessert that’s easy to prepare with unbeatable results. Pretty much guaranteed to warm ’em hearts and give ’em smiles in no time, whether you’re hosting an event or having just a slice at home with the family.

Why You’ll Love This Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

This Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake is a game-changer for those busy days! It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a breeze for anyone, even if you’re juggling a million tasks. The combination of moist chocolate cake and creamy Oreo pudding is an irresistible treat. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to birthday celebrations. With just a few steps, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert that pleases everyone!

Ingredients for Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of baking! For this Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake, you’ll need a few key players to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.

Chocolate Cake Mix: A box of chocolate cake mix, I love using Devil’s Food flavor, but any chocolate variety works well. It ensures a quick start and keeps the cake moist.
Dark Chocolate Instant Pudding: This adds a rich, velvety texture to the cake. You can also use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Large Eggs: They act as a binding agent, adding structure and moisture to the cake.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter enriches the batter, giving it a luscious taste. Just remember to let it cool slightly before adding it in.
Buttermilk: This ingredient adds a tender crumb to the cake. If you don’t have it, mixing regular milk with a bit of vinegar works as a fantastic substitute!
Vanilla Extract (optional): I often add a splash for an extra layer of warmth, but it’s entirely up to you!
Oreo Instant Pudding: This is the star of the show! It brings that classic Oreo flavor into the pudding that fills those delicious holes.
Whole Milk: Cold milk helps create a smooth pudding consistency. Opt for whole for the best flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This whips up beautifully for a fluffy topping. You can also use a non-dairy alternative if you need it!
Powdered Sugar: A bit of sweetness for the whipped topping; it helps stabilize the cream, making it light and fluffy.
Oreo Cookies: Finely chopped for both folding into the filling and sprinkling on top—yum!

Don’t worry about the measurements—I’ve included them at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Now let’s get to mixing!

How to Make Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C).

While it warms up, grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or a little shortening.

This step ensures your cake releases easily after baking.

Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, dark chocolate instant pudding, eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, and optional vanilla extract.

Using a hand mixer, beat the ingredients on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until fully blended.

Your batter will be pleasantly thick, signaling it’s ready for the oven!

Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly as it bakes!

Cool the Cake

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and pour your heart into waiting patiently!

Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes on a cooling rack until it reaches room temperature.

Poke Holes in the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, gently poke holes into the cake, about 0.75 inches apart.

This creates a perfect space for the delicious Oreo pudding to fill!

Prepare the Oreo Pudding

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold whole milk and Oreo pudding mix.

Mix by hand or with a blender for about a minute until it’s creamy and lump-free.

Add Pudding to the Cake

Carefully pour the Oreo pudding over the cake, making sure it fills all those delightful holes.

Spread it out evenly, then give the pan a gentle tap to settle everything perfectly.

Refrigerate the Cake

Cover the cake and place it in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours.

This step is essential—it allows the pudding layer to set beautifully!

Make Whipped Topping

In a large mixing bowl, grab your heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar.

Use a hand mixer with a whisk attachment to start at low speed for about 30 seconds, then crank it up to high.

Whip it for 3 to 4 minutes until stiff peaks form—that’s the sweet spot!

Finish the Cake

Evenly sprinkle half of the crushed Oreo cookies over the chilled cake.

With a loving hand, spread the whipped topping over the surface.

Finally, top it off with the remaining crushed Oreos for a delicious crunch.

Your cake is now ready for serving. Enjoy your homemade Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake!

Tips for Success

Let the cake cool completely before poking holes; this ensures the pudding sets properly.
For an extra kick, consider blending in some crushed Oreos into the whipped topping.
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the cake a day ahead—just add toppings before serving.
Use a toothpick to check cake doneness; it should come out clean.
Don’t skimp on the chilling time; it enhances the flavors!

Equipment Needed

9 x 13-inch Baking Pan: A standard size; you can use a glass or metal pan.
Mixing Bowls: A set of large bowls will help in combining ingredients.
Hand Mixer: Handy for mixing the batter; a whisk can also work.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for poking holes in the cake.
Whisk Attachment: Essential for whipping cream to fluffy perfection.

Variations on Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

Mint Oreo Pudding: Replace the standard Oreo pudding with mint Oreo pudding for a refreshing twist!
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Peanut Butter Delight: Swirl in some creamy peanut butter into the whipped topping for a nutty flavor.
White Chocolate Version: Substitute dark chocolate pudding with white chocolate pudding for a different sweetness.
Fruit Accents: Layer in some fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, to balance the sweetness and add freshness.

Serving Suggestions for Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

Pair with Coffee: A hot cup of coffee beautifully complements the rich flavors of this dessert.
Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a lovely fruity contrast.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds an extra creamy layer to each bite.
Fun Presentation: Garnish with whole Oreos or mint leaves for a pop of color!

FAQs about Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake

Curious about the ins and outs of making this decadent Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake? Fret not! Here are some frequently asked questions that are sure to clear up any doubts.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While chocolate cake mix gives you that classic vibe, you can experiment with vanilla or red velvet cake mix for a fun twist. The pudding flavor pairs well with many cake mixes!

How do I store the leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps your Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake fresh and delicious for up to three days—if it lasts that long!

Can I freeze the Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving!

How can I make this cake less sweet?

If you’re looking to tone down the sweetness, consider using half the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped topping. You can also choose a less sugary pudding mix for a better balance.

What should I do if the pudding isn’t setting properly?

Make sure you’re using cold milk and whisking thoroughly to mix it well. If it still seems runny, give it more time in the refrigerator. Sometimes patience is key!

Final Thoughts

Baking the Oreo Poke Chocolate Cake is more than just preparing a dessert; it’s about creating joyful moments. The process is simple enough to fit into a busy day, yet the final result feels like a special occasion. This cake is a delicious fusion of textures and flavors, from the chocolatey depth to the creamy Oreo filling. Each slice brings back memories of laughter and sweetness shared with loved ones. So, whether it’s a casual weeknight treat or a show-stopping dessert for a gathering, this cake is certain to bring joy to your table. Happy baking!