Black Forest Jello Poke Cake Recipe
Black Forest jello poke cake takes the classic flavors of chocolate and cherry and turns them into an easy, showstopping dessert. A moist chocolate cake gets poked all over and soaked with cherry gelatin, so every bite bursts with fruity flavor and rich chocolate.
Topped with fluffy whipped cream, sweet cherry pie filling, and a shower of chocolate shavings, this cake looks impressive but comes together with simple boxed shortcuts. It is the perfect make ahead treat for potlucks, holidays, and celebrations of all kinds.
What Is a Black Forest Jello Poke Cake
A poke cake is a baked cake that gets poked with holes while still warm, then soaked with a liquid that seeps into every crevice. This Black Forest jello poke cake uses cherry flavored gelatin as the filling, giving the chocolate cake a moist texture and a pop of cherry in every slice.
Inspired by the German Black Forest cake, it layers chocolate, cherries, and cream into a fun, no fuss dessert that anyone can make.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This poke cake checks all the boxes for an easy crowd pleaser:
- Simple shortcuts: A boxed cake mix and jello do the heavy lifting.
- Make ahead friendly: It needs time to chill, so you can prep it in advance.
- Incredibly moist: The jello soak keeps every bite tender.
- Beautiful presentation: The cherry topping and chocolate curls look stunning.
- Always a hit: Chocolate and cherry is a timeless flavor combo.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients listed on the box
- 1 box (3 ounces) cherry flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
- 1/4 cup chocolate shavings or curls
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
How to Make Black Forest Jello Poke Cake Step-by-Step
- Prepare and bake the chocolate cake in a 9 by 13 inch pan according to the box directions.
- Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes, then poke holes all over the top using the end of a wooden spoon.
- In a bowl, dissolve the cherry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, then stir in 1/2 cup of cold water.
- Slowly pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, letting it fill the holes.
- Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the whipped topping and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
- Slice, garnish with fresh cherries if desired, and serve cold.
Tips and Variations
Try these ideas to make it your own:
- Use fresh whipped cream: Homemade whipped cream adds a lighter, fresher taste.
- Add a kick: Brush the cake with a splash of kirsch for a traditional Black Forest flavor.
- Switch the filling: Try black cherry or raspberry pie filling for a twist.
- Make it richer: Drizzle with chocolate ganache before adding the cherries.
- Individual servings: Layer the pieces in cups for cute mini trifles.
Storage Tips and Frequently Asked Questions
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because of the whipped topping and gelatin, this cake must stay chilled and should not be left at room temperature for long. It is best enjoyed within the first couple of days.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. It is actually best made a day ahead so the jello has plenty of time to set and soak into the cake.
Can I freeze poke cake?
Freezing is not recommended once the whipped topping and cherries are added, as the texture changes. You can freeze the plain soaked cake and add toppings after thawing.
Why is my cake not absorbing the jello?
Make sure the holes are wide and deep and that the cake is still slightly warm when you pour the gelatin over it.
Can I use homemade cake?
Absolutely. Any 9 by 13 inch chocolate cake works in place of the boxed mix.
Final Thoughts
This Black Forest jello poke cake is an easy way to bring a bakery worthy dessert to your table with minimal effort. The combination of moist chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and cloud like whipped topping is impossible to resist.
Make it for your next celebration or whenever you are craving something sweet, and watch it become a new family favorite. One bite and everyone will be asking for the recipe.