Butterfinger Candy Bar Poke Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make cake features a moist chocolate or yellow cake base, topped with a layer of caramel and sweetened condensed milk, and finished with whipped topping and crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Each bite is loaded with chocolate, caramel, and peanut buttery goodness that will have everyone coming back for more.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients needed for the cake mix)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 4 Butterfinger candy bars, crushed
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the cake according to the package instructions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Add the Caramel and Sweetened Condensed Milk
- In a small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce until well combined.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely to room temperature.
Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping and Butterfinger
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars over the whipped topping.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Cake Flavor: You can use either a chocolate or yellow cake mix, depending on your preference. Both work wonderfully with the caramel and Butterfinger flavors.
- Poking Holes: Be sure to poke deep holes so the caramel and sweetened condensed milk mixture can soak into the cake for maximum flavor.
- Chilling: Refrigerating the cake for a few hours allows the flavors to meld and the cake to become extra moist and delicious.
Variations
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add a drizzle of melted peanut butter over the cake before adding the whipped topping for an extra layer of peanut butter flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use a chocolate fudge cake mix and add chocolate chips to the batter for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Different Candy Bars: Substitute the Butterfinger candy bars with other candy bars like Snickers, Reese’s, or Heath for a different flavor profile.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a fresher taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight as the flavors have more time to meld together.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Poke Cake?
Store leftover poke cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
3. Can I Use a Different Type of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor of cake mix that you like. Chocolate, yellow, or even butter pecan would work well with the caramel and Butterfinger flavors.
4. Can I Freeze Butterfinger Poke Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with chocolate syrup before serving for added richness.
- Fruit Garnish: Add sliced strawberries or bananas on top for a fruity contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Butterfinger Candy Bar Poke Cake is a decadent and crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist cake, rich caramel filling, and crunchy Butterfinger topping, this cake is sure to be a hit at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet, creamy, and crunchy goodness in every bite!
