Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Orange Poke Cake is a rich and moist dessert that combines the deep flavor of chocolate cake with the bright, zesty essence of orange. This cake is poked after baking to absorb a luscious orange-infused filling, then topped with a smooth chocolate ganache or whipped topping. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you crave a citrus-chocolate combo.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chocolate cake mix (or your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe)eggsvegetable oilwaterorange gelatin (like orange Jell-O)boiling watercold waterorange zestchocolate chipsheavy creamwhipped topping (optional)orange slices or zest for garnish (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing or lining it.

Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to package instructions or your preferred recipe.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for the recommended time, usually 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes.

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.

In a bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold water and orange zest.

Slowly pour the orange gelatin mixture evenly over the entire surface of the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.

In a small saucepan or microwave, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth to create ganache.

Spread the ganache over the chilled cake. Let it set slightly before serving.

Optionally, top with whipped topping and garnish with orange zest or slices.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-15 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 30-35 minutesChilling time: 2 hoursTotal time: about 3 hours

Variations

Swap the orange gelatin for blood orange or mandarin for a different citrus flavor.

Use orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier) mixed into the gelatin for an adult version.

Top with chocolate curls or sprinkles for extra flair.

Add a layer of orange curd before spreading the ganache.

Make it gluten-free by using a GF cake mix.

storage/reheating

Store Chocolate Orange Poke Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months.Thaw in the fridge before serving. This cake is best enjoyed chilled but can be briefly microwaved for a softer texture.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a cake that’s baked, then poked with holes to allow filling (like pudding, Jell-O, or syrup) to seep in for added flavor and moisture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling, so making it a day in advance is ideal.

Does the gelatin make the cake soggy?

No, it adds moisture without making it soggy, especially if chilled properly.

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of gelatin?

Fresh juice won’t set the same way as gelatin, but you can mix it with a bit of cornstarch and cook it into a syrup for a similar effect.

Is this cake kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the bright orange flavor and chocolate topping.

Do I have to use ganache?

No, you can use chocolate frosting, whipped topping, or even just powdered sugar if preferred.

Can I use homemade cake?

Yes, any moist chocolate cake recipe works perfectly.

Can I use other flavors of gelatin?

Yes, raspberry or cherry also pair nicely with chocolate.

Is this cake too sweet?

It’s rich but balanced by the citrus. You can reduce the sugar in the cake or topping if desired.

What if I don’t have chocolate chips?

You can use a chocolate bar chopped into pieces or substitute with cocoa powder and butter.

Conclusion

Chocolate Orange Poke Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that marries the decadent depth of chocolate with a lively citrus twist. Its easy preparation and vibrant flavor make it an excellent choice for gatherings or a special treat at home. Give it a try—you may find it becomes a new favorite in your dessert lineup.