Butterfinger Poke Cake Recipe with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Every family has a special dessert that makes any gathering unforgettable. For me, the Butterfinger poke cake is that treat. It’s a rich chocolate cake filled with creamy sweetened condensed milk and crunchy Butterfinger pieces.

This cake is more than just a sweet treat. It’s a journey of flavors that’s easy to make. It’s perfect for any time you want something delicious. This recipe is sure to become your go-to indulgence.

Key Takeaways

• Easy to prepare butterfinger poke cake using basic ingredients
• Perfect dessert for chocolate and candy lovers
• Requires minimal baking skills
• Can be prepared in under an hour
• Versatile dessert for various occasions

What Makes Butterfinger Poke Cake So Special

Explore the world of rich desserts with a chocolate butterfinger cake. It turns a simple treat into a memorable experience. The cake mixes chocolate’s deep flavors with Butterfinger’s crunchy texture, making it a standout dessert.

The magic of butterfinger cake is in its mix of textures and tastes. It’s unlike regular cakes, with a unique experience that makes you want more.

The Magic of Combining Candy and Cake

Picture biting into a moist chocolate cake with crunchy Butterfinger bits. It’s a dessert that perfectly balances:

• Soft, tender cake texture
• Crunchy candy bits
• Smooth chocolate undertones
• Unexpected flavor complexity

Why Sweetened Condensed Milk is the Secret Ingredient

Sweetened condensed milk makes a chocolate butterfinger cake incredibly moist. This magical ingredient seeps into every pore of the cake, making it rich and decadent.

History of Poke Cake Desserts

Poke cake desserts started in the mid-20th century as a creative twist on simple cakes. Bakers poked holes in warm cakes and filled them with tasty liquids. The butterfinger cake is a modern take on this idea, showing that new ideas in cooking never end.

Essential Ingredients for Your Chocolate Butterfinger Cake

Making the perfect chocolate butterfinger cake starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need a few key items to turn a simple dessert into a special treat.

Your cake’s foundation is a quality chocolate cake mix. This mix gives your cake a rich, moist base. Plus, it’s easy to make a delicious dessert without being a pro.

• Chocolate cake mix (your primary base)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Butterfinger candy bars
• Whipped cream or frosting
• Vanilla extract

Now, let’s look at the ingredients that make this cake special:

Ingredient	Purpose	Quantity Needed
Chocolate Cake Mix	Creates cake base	1 box (15-16 oz)
Sweetened Condensed Milk	Adds moisture	1 can (14 oz)
Butterfinger Bars	Provides crunch and flavor	4-5 standard bars

If you have dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free or dairy-free options. This recipe is flexible, so you can make it your own while keeping the Butterfinger flavor.

Pro tip: Crush your Butterfinger bars just before adding them. This ensures they stay crunchy and add lots of flavor to your cake.

Step-by-Step Butterfinger Poke Cake Instructions

Making a butterfinger poke cake with sweetened condensed milk is simple. It combines chocolate cake, creamy milk, and crunchy candy for a memorable treat. Impress your family and friends with this easy yet impressive recipe.

Preparing Your Cake Base

Choose a high-quality chocolate cake mix. Follow the package instructions to mix it well. Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch pan and spread it evenly. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean, usually 25-30 minutes.

Creating Perfect Poke Holes

After the cake cools, it’s time for the poke holes. Use a wooden spoon or skewer to poke holes evenly. The holes should be:

• About 1 inch apart
• Approximately 3/4 of the way down into the cake
• Consistent in size

Adding the Sweetened Condensed Milk Layer

Pour sweetened condensed milk over the holes. Slowly drizzle the milk to soak the cake. This makes the cake moist and rich, with a creamy texture.

Topping with Butterfinger Crumbles

Crush Butterfinger candy bars into small pieces. Sprinkle them over the cake for a crunchy topping. Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to blend the flavors.

“A great dessert is all about layers of flavor and texture!” – Baking Enthuasiast

Tips for Making the Best Butterfinger Cake with Cake Mix

Making the perfect butterfinger cake with cake mix needs some baking know-how. Your chocolate butterfinger cake can become amazing with a few expert tips and tricks.

Choosing the right cake mix is key for your dessert’s success. Chocolate cake mixes are best for a butterfinger cake. They give your dessert a rich base.

• Choose a high-quality chocolate cake mix with deep flavor profiles
• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
• Use an electric mixer for smooth batter consistency
• Preheat your oven to the exact temperature specified on the mix box

When making poke holes, be consistent. Use the back of a wooden spoon or a fork handle for uniform holes. Make sure to space them evenly so each bite has the right amount of sweetened condensed milk.

Technique	Recommended Approach
Hole Spacing	1-inch intervals
Hole Depth	About 3/4 inch deep
Butterfinger Topping	Crush finely for even distribution

For more flavor, try different chocolate cake mix variations. Dark chocolate or devil’s food mixes can deepen your butterfinger cake’s taste.

• Try adding a teaspoon of instant coffee powder to enhance chocolate flavor
• Sprinkle extra Butterfinger pieces between cake layers
• Drizzle caramel sauce for additional richness

Remember, practice makes perfect. Each time you bake this chocolate butterfinger cake, you’ll get better and more confident in making this delightful dessert.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Your delicious butterfinger poke cake needs special care to keep its amazing taste and texture. The right storage and serving tips can make your dessert even better. They help keep your cake fresh and tasty.

Keeping Your Cake Fresh

To keep your butterfinger cake moist and flavorful, follow these steps:

• Refrigerate the cake in an airtight container
• Cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying
• Store for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator

Optimal Serving Temperature

The right temperature is key to enjoying your butterfinger poke cake. For the best taste and texture, take the cake out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before you serve it.

Temperature Range	Serving Recommendation
35-40°F	Refrigerated state
50-55°F	Ideal serving temperature

Creative Plating Ideas

Make your butterfinger poke cake look stunning with these presentation tips:

• Dust with extra crushed Butterfinger pieces
• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce
• Garnish with whipped cream
• Serve on a decorative dessert plate

Pro tip: For special occasions, consider individual plating to create an elegant dessert experience.

Conclusion

Making a butterfinger poke cake is simpler than you think. It combines chocolate, sweet condensed milk, and crunchy Butterfinger candy. This mix creates a dessert that’s both easy and impressive.

This cake is perfect for any event. It’s made with just a cake mix and a few extra ingredients. You can turn a simple dessert into a showstopper.

Even beginners can make this cake look like it was made by a pro. Your guests will be impressed by how good it tastes. The mix of chocolate cake, creamy milk, and candy is unbeatable.

Feel free to get creative with your butterfinger poke cake. Try different cake flavors or add more toppings. Baking is all about trying new things and finding what you like.

Share your unique cake with friends and family. Each time you try something new, you get closer to making the perfect dessert.

Need a dessert for a family dinner or just want something sweet? This butterfinger poke cake recipe is your go-to. Enjoy the process of baking and relish every bite!

FAQ

What makes a Butterfinger poke cake different from other desserts?

A Butterfinger poke cake is special because it has a rich chocolate cake, creamy condensed milk, and crunchy Butterfinger pieces. The “poking” method lets the milk soak into the cake. This makes the dessert moist, indulgent, and full of flavor.

Can I make this cake using a gluten-free cake mix?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix for this recipe. Just make sure your Butterfinger candy and other ingredients are gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy a safe and tasty dessert.

How long will a Butterfinger poke cake stay fresh?

Keep your Butterfinger poke cake fresh for 3-5 days in the fridge. Cover it well to keep it moist and flavorful. This helps prevent the cake from drying out.

Can I freeze a Butterfinger poke cake?

Freeze this cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. It will stay delicious and moist.

What can I use if I can’t find Butterfinger candy bars?

If you can’t find Butterfinger bars, try Reese’s Pieces, crushed Peanut Butter Cups, or Heath bars. They offer a similar crunchy texture and flavor that complements the cake well.

Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?

Yes, it’s perfect for beginners! It uses a cake mix and requires little baking skill. The poking and filling steps are easy, making it a great dessert for beginners.

Can I make this cake without using sweetened condensed milk?

While sweetened condensed milk is key, you can use caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or homemade sweetened milk instead. But, the original recipe’s unique moisture and richness might change a bit.

How many people does a typical Butterfinger poke cake serve?

A standard 9×13 inch cake serves 12-15 people, depending on slice size. For bigger groups, you can double the recipe or make multiple cakes. This way, everyone gets a tasty slice.