Easy Black Forest Poke Cake Recipe – Chocolate Cake with Cherry Filling

There’s something undeniably comforting about a rich chocolate cake paired with sweet cherries and clouds of whipped cream. This Black Forest Poke Cake is the kind of dessert that feels right at home at a family gathering, birthday celebration, or cozy weekend dinner. It brings together classic flavors in a way that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly simple. Inspired by the traditional Black Forest flavor combination of chocolate and cherries, this easy poke cake version transforms those familiar tastes into a moist, crowd-pleasing dessert that anyone can make. Instead of complicated layers, this recipe uses a clever poke-and-fill method to infuse every bite with luscious cherry goodness. It’s the perfect balance of impressive presentation and effortless preparation.

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Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Poke Cake

If you adore chocolate and cherries together, this cake will quickly become a favorite. Here’s why:

• Deep, rich chocolate flavor in every bite
• Sweet cherry filling infused throughout the cake
• Light, creamy whipped topping for the perfect contrast
• Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly steps
• Ideal for holidays, potlucks, and celebrations

Unlike a traditional layered Black Forest cake, this poke cake doesn’t require precise stacking or decorating skills. The beauty is in its rustic, layered look and the way the cherry filling seeps into the cake, making it incredibly moist.

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What Is a Poke Cake?

A poke cake is exactly what it sounds like. After baking, you poke holes all over the cake and pour a filling over the top so it seeps into the holes. The result is a cake that’s extra moist and full of flavor in every slice. In this Black Forest version, the filling is a sweet cherry mixture that soaks into the chocolate base. Once chilled, the cake is topped with whipped cream and finished with chocolate shavings for that classic Black Forest appearance.

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Ingredients for Black Forest Poke Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this easy chocolate cherry cake.

For the Chocolate Cake

• 1 box (15.25 ounces / 432 g) chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Or, if you prefer homemade cake:

• 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) hot water

For the Cherry Filling

• 1 can (21 ounces / 595 g) cherry pie filling
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Topping

• 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (60 g) chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (75 g) fresh cherries, optional for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Chocolate Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. If using a boxed mix, combine the cake mix, 1 cup (240 ml) milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil, 3 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and pour into the prepared pan. If making from scratch, whisk together the dry ingredients first. Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until combined, then carefully stir in 1 cup (240 ml) hot water. The batter will be thin. Pour into the pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.

2. Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a thick straw, poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. Make sure you poke deep enough so the filling can soak through.

3. Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry pie filling, 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Stir constantly until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

4. Fill the Cake

Spoon the warm cherry mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the holes. Use a spatula to gently spread it across the surface. Allow the cake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the filling sets.

5. Make the Whipped Topping

In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream with 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle 1/2 cup (60 g) chocolate shavings over the top. Add fresh cherries if desired. Slice and serve chilled for best results.

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Tips for the Perfect Black Forest Poke Cake

• Let the cake cool slightly before poking to prevent tearing.
• Chill thoroughly before serving so the layers set properly.
• Use high-quality cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• For clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts.

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Make-Ahead and Storage

This cake is perfect for preparing in advance. In fact, it tastes even better the next day.

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep chilled to maintain the whipped cream texture.
• Do not freeze after adding whipped topping, as it may separate.

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Variations to Try

• Add mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup / 85 g) to the batter.
• Use dark chocolate shavings for a richer finish.
• Swap cherry pie filling for a homemade cherry compote.
• Add a layer of chocolate ganache under the whipped cream using 1 cup (170 g) chocolate chips and 1/2 cup (120 ml) heated heavy cream.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this Black Forest Poke Cake from scratch instead of using a box mix?

Absolutely. This recipe includes a fully homemade chocolate cake option using 1 3/4 cups (220 g) flour, 3/4 cup (75 g) cocoa powder, and other pantry staples. The homemade version produces a slightly richer and more intense chocolate flavor. The hot water in the batter enhances the cocoa, making the cake moist and tender. If you have the time, making it from scratch is worth it. However, the boxed mix version is convenient and still delicious, especially for busy schedules or last-minute gatherings.

2. How far in advance can I make this cake?

You can prepare this cake up to 24 hours in advance for best results. In fact, chilling it overnight allows the cherry filling to fully soak into the cake, enhancing both flavor and texture. If making further in advance, consider adding the whipped topping the day you plan to serve it. The cake itself, without topping, can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding the cream layer.

3. Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, you can make your own cherry filling using 2 cups (300 g) pitted fresh cherries, 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) water, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Cook the mixture over medium heat until thickened. Fresh cherries provide a brighter, slightly less sweet flavor compared to canned filling. Just ensure the mixture thickens enough so it doesn’t make the cake soggy.

4. Why is my cake soggy?

A poke cake should be moist, but not overly wet. If your cake turns soggy, it may be due to adding too much liquid or pouring the filling while it was extremely hot. Make sure the filling is slightly cooled before pouring, and avoid overfilling the holes. Also, chilling the cake properly allows everything to set and balance out.

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Final Thoughts

Black Forest Poke Cake is proof that impressive desserts don’t have to be complicated. With its rich chocolate base, sweet cherry filling, and light whipped topping, it delivers the flavors of a classic Black Forest cake in a much simpler format. It’s approachable for beginners yet satisfying enough for experienced bakers who want a reliable crowd-pleaser. What makes this recipe truly special is how adaptable it is. You can dress it up for holidays with elegant chocolate curls and fresh cherries, or keep it casual for a family dinner. The moist texture and balanced sweetness make it appealing to both kids and adults. Each forkful offers chocolate depth, bursts of cherry, and creamy smoothness. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just craving a comforting dessert, this Black Forest Poke Cake is a dependable choice. Once you try it, it may just become your go-to chocolate cherry cake for years to come. Print