Butterfinger Poke Cake

The Butterfinger Poke Cake elevates the chocolate cake experience with its unique twist. Imagine a perfectly baked chocolate cake, tender and full of cocoa aroma, infused with a rich, gooey caramel sauce that seeps into every pore, making each bite irresistibly moist. The cake is then lavishly topped with whipped cream, offering a light, airy contrast to the dense cake below. But the real star of the show is the “crispety, crunchety” pieces of Butterfinger candy sprinkled generously on top. These bits add not only a delightful crunch but also a burst of peanut butter and chocolate flavor that Butterfinger is famous for.

This cake is more than just a sweet treat. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a conversation starter, often becoming the highlight of any gathering. Whether at a family reunion, a festive celebration, or a weekend indulgence, the Butterfinger Poke Cake stands out. It’s a dessert that captivates everyone, regardless of age. The unique combination of flavors and textures ensures it’s always a huge hit. It leaves a lasting impression on all who taste it.

Indulge in this luxurious dessert, and let the Butterfinger Poke Cake take you on a delightful journey of taste and texture that you won’t soon forget.

The Origin of Butterfinger Poke Cake

The Butterfinger Poke Cake is a dessert that has tantalized taste buds and sparked curiosity. It boasts an intriguing origin that’s as rich as its flavor. This unique cake’s journey began with the fusion of two traditional American desserts: the poke cake and the iconic Butterfinger candy bar.

Poke cakes originated in the United States in the 1970s. They quickly became beloved for their simplicity and versatility. The concept is straightforward: bake a cake, poke holes in it, then infuse it with a filling or topping. Common choices include pudding, jello, or sweetened condensed milk. This method imparts intense flavor and ensures a moist and tender texture. It has made the poke cake a staple in American home cooking.

The Butterfinger candy bar, known for its layers of crispety, crunchety, peanut-buttery texture coated in chocolate, first appeared in the 1920s. It quickly gained popularity, becoming a cultural icon. The candy bar’s unique flavor profile of peanut butter and chocolate has inspired various dessert recipes. Over the years, it has become a favorite ingredient for innovative bakers.

The Butterfinger Poke Cake emerged as a creative amalgamation of these two classics. Combining the moist, spongy texture of the poke cake with the rich, bold flavors of the Butterfinger candy bar, this dessert became a sensation. It’s not just a mere blend of ingredients; it’s a celebration of American dessert traditions, a homage to the inventive spirit of home baking.

This cake embodies the evolution of American desserts. It showcases how bakers actively reimagine classic elements to forge new, exciting culinary experiences. The Butterfinger Poke Cake is more than just a dessert. It’s a piece of culinary history. It represents innovation and tradition coming together on a plate, in a deliciously tangible form.

Butterfinger Poke Cake Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

How to Make a Butterfinger Poke Cake?

1. Bake the Chocolate Cake: Begin by preparing a standard chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Use a 9×13 inch baking dish for an ideal size. Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly.
2. Poking Holes: With the cake still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon or a similar object to poke holes throughout the cake. These holes allow the next layers to seep into the cake, creating pockets of flavor.
3. Add Caramel Sauce: Pour a rich, gooey caramel sauce over the cake, making sure it fills the holes. This adds a moist, sweet depth to the cake.
4. Spread Peanut Butter Filling: In a separate bowl, mix smooth peanut butter with a little confectioners’ sugar and milk to create a creamy filling. Gently spread this over the cake.
5. Top with Whipped Cream: Once the peanut butter layer settles, cover the cake with a layer of whipped cream, creating a light and fluffy top.
6. Sprinkle Butterfinger Pieces: Crush Butterfinger candy bars into small pieces and sprinkle them generously over the whipped cream layer, adding a delightful crunch.
7. Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for a few hours to allow the layers to meld together beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Butterfinger Poke Cake

• Cake Consistency: Ensure the cake is just warm when poking holes; if it’s too hot or too cold, the sauces won’t absorb properly.
• Caramel Sauce: Opt for a high-quality caramel sauce for a richer flavor.
• Butterfinger Layering: Add some crushed Butterfinger pieces between layers for an extra burst of flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Use freshly whipped cream for a lighter, airier texture than store-bought versions.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Adventure: Every bite combines moist cake, creamy peanut butter, sweet caramel, and crunchy Butterfinger, offering a symphony of flavors.
• Versatility: Perfect for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight guests of all ages.

How to Store the Cake?

• Refrigeration: Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. The cold temperature helps maintain its moist texture and keeps the whipped cream stable.
• Freezing Option: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

The Butterfinger Poke Cake is a testament to culinary creativity, blending classic flavors in a new and exciting way. Its rich texture and harmonious blend of ingredients make it a standout dessert that’s both satisfying and impressively delightful.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix (and ingredients required to make the cake)
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 jar (11.75 oz) caramel ice cream topping
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
• 4 Butterfinger candy bars, crushed

Directions

1. Prepare and bake the yellow cake according to package instructions in a 9×13 inch pan.
2. Once baked, let the cake cool for a few minutes. Then, using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the top of the cake.
3. Mix sweetened condensed milk and caramel topping together and pour over the cake, ensuring it gets into the holes.
4. Spread whipped topping over the entire cake.
5. Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars over the top.
6. Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal/slice | Servings: 12 slices

Can I Use Regular-Size Butterfingers Instead of Fun-Size?

Absolutely! Regular-size Butterfinger bars can be used in place of fun-size bars in this recipe. The key is to crush the Butterfingers into small, manageable pieces that blend well with the cake’s texture. Regular-size bars will yield more crushed candy, which means more of that delicious Butterfinger flavor in every bite. Make sure to crush the pieces evenly to maintain a consistent texture throughout the cake.

What’s the Best Peanut Butter to Use in This Recipe?

For the Butterfinger Poke Cake, the best peanut butter to use is a smooth, creamy variety. This type of peanut butter blends seamlessly into the filling, providing a rich, velvety texture without overpowering the other flavors. Avoid using chunky or natural peanut butters that separate, as they can affect the consistency of your filling. A standard, commercially available creamy peanut butter works best for a consistent, delicious result.

Can I Use Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream in the Cake?

Yes, you can substitute yogurt for sour cream in this cake recipe. Yogurt is a great alternative, offering a similar tang and moisture content. For best results, use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt, as it’s thicker and closer in texture to sour cream. This swap won’t significantly alter the flavor of the cake but can make it slightly lighter in texture.

I Don’t Like Whipped Topping. What Can I Use Instead?

If whipped topping isn’t to your liking, there are several delicious alternatives you can use for your Butterfinger Poke Cake. One option is homemade whipped cream, which is easy to make and offers a fresher, richer taste. Another alternative is a mascarpone or cream cheese frosting, which provides a thicker, creamier texture and a slight tang that complements the cake’s flavors. You can sweeten and flavor these substitutes to suit your taste, tailoring your Butterfinger Poke Cake to your personal preferences.

Conclusion

The Butterfinger Poke Cake stands as a testament to culinary innovation and creativity. It encapsulates the joy of baking by combining familiar ingredients in new and exciting ways. This cake’s versatility allows for personalization, whether you’re using regular-size Butterfingers, your favorite creamy peanut butter, substituting yogurt for sour cream, or opting for homemade whipped cream topping. Despite these variations, it maintains its delightful essence.

At its core, the Butterfinger Poke Cake is more than just a dessert. It’s a celebration of flavors and textures, destined to be a crowd-pleaser at any event. The moist chocolate cake, rich peanut butter, gooey caramel, and iconic Butterfinger crunch create a symphony of tastes. This cake satisfies the sweet tooth and evokes fond memories, making new ones along the way.

In baking and dessert making, the Butterfinger Poke Cake stands out. It deliciously reminds us that traditional recipes can evolve into something extraordinary and exciting. This cake is more than a treat; it’s an experience to savor, share, and remember.

FAQs

What is a Butterfinger Poke Cake?

A Butterfinger Poke Cake is a dessert that combines a moist chocolate cake with a rich filling, typically involving caramel and peanut butter, and topped with whipped cream and crushed Butterfinger candy bars. The cake is characterized by holes poked throughout, allowing the filling to seep in and create a moist, flavorful treat.

Can I make the Butterfinger Poke Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Butterfinger Poke Cake in advance. It’s actually recommended to prepare it at least a few hours before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld together. The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this cake?

Absolutely! To make a gluten-free Butterfinger Poke Cake, simply use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure that all other ingredients, including the Butterfinger bars, are gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of candy instead of Butterfingers?

Yes, while Butterfingers offer a unique flavor, you can experiment with other types of candy. Choose a candy that complements the chocolate and peanut butter flavors, like crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Heath bars.

How do I store leftover Butterfinger Poke Cake?

Leftover Butterfinger Poke Cake should be stored in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its moisture and freshness. It can be kept for up to 5 days. If you need to store it for longer, consider freezing individual slices.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought?

Definitely! Using homemade caramel sauce can enhance the flavor of your Butterfinger Poke Cake. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before pouring it over the cake.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

The best tool for poking holes in the cake is the end of a wooden spoon or a similar-sized object. Ensure the holes are evenly spaced and go about halfway through the cake to allow the fillings to seep in effectively.

What is the best way to poke holes in a poke cake?

The best way to poke holes in a poke cake is to use the round handle of a wooden spoon or a similar-sized object, like a skewer or the end of a spatula. After baking and slightly cooling the cake, gently press the handle into the cake at regular intervals, making sure the holes are evenly spaced. These holes should be deep enough to allow the filling to seep into the cake but not so deep that they go completely through the cake. This technique ensures an even distribution of the filling, making every bite moist and flavorful.

How many calories are in one piece of Butterfinger cake?

The calorie content in one piece of Butterfinger Poke Cake can vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size. On average, a standard serving (about 1/12th of a 9×13 inch cake) might contain anywhere from 350 to 500 calories. This estimate can change based on factors like the type of cake mix used, the amount of toppings and fillings, and the size of the slice. For a more accurate calorie count, it’s best to calculate based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.

Why is it called poke cake?

The term “poke cake” comes from the method used in its preparation, where the baker literally pokes holes into the baked cake. Once the holes are made, they are filled with various liquid or semi-liquid ingredients such as flavored gelatin, pudding, sweetened condensed milk, or, in the case of the Butterfinger Poke Cake, caramel sauce and peanut butter filling. This process allows these fillings to seep into the cake, creating a moist and flavorful dessert. The name “poke cake” succinctly describes this unique and crucial step in the cake’s preparation.

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