This Toffee Butterscotch Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of butterscotch, toffee, and peanuts with the simplicity of a boxed cake mix. It’s perfect for a sweet treat after dinner or to bring to a potluck or family gathering. The moist cake, soaked with butterscotch syrup and sweetened condensed milk, is topped with fluffy Cool Whip, crunchy toffee bits, and honey toasted peanuts, creating a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix: The base of this recipe, providing a moist and flavorful cake.
- 3 eggs: Adds richness and helps the cake rise.
- 1 cup water: Used to mix the cake batter.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist.
- 1 (10 oz) jar butterscotch sundae syrup or ice cream topping: This syrup adds sweetness and that unmistakable butterscotch flavor to the cake.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk: Adds extra moisture and sweetness to the cake.
- 1 (16 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed: Light and fluffy, this topping complements the rich flavors of the cake.
- 1/2 cup toffee bits: Adds a delightful crunch and toffee flavor.
- 1 (2 oz) package honey toasted peanuts, chopped: Brings a bit of savory and crunchy contrast to the sweetness.
Instructions:
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes, until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake according to the cake mix instructions, typically 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Poke Cake
- Poke holes in the cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced to ensure the butterscotch syrup and sweetened condensed milk seep into every bite.
- Pour the butterscotch syrup: Open the jar of butterscotch sundae syrup and slowly pour it over the top of the cake, making sure to fill all the holes. This will allow the syrup to soak into the cake, adding extra moisture and flavor.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk: Next, pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, filling the holes along with the butterscotch syrup. This step will make the cake incredibly moist and sweet.
- Chill the cake: Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow it to cool completely and for the syrup and milk to soak into the cake fully.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
- Spread the Cool Whip: Once the cake is completely chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake, creating a fluffy and light layer.
- Sprinkle the toffee bits: Evenly sprinkle the toffee bits over the Cool Whip layer. These will add a delightful crunch and a rich toffee flavor.
- Add the honey toasted peanuts: Finally, sprinkle the chopped honey toasted peanuts over the top of the cake. The peanuts provide a slightly salty contrast to the sweetness of the cake, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Cut and serve: Once the toppings are added, the cake is ready to serve. Cut it into squares and serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers: If you have any leftovers, cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. The cake will keep well for several days, and the flavors will continue to meld together.
Tips for Success:
- Use full-fat ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use full-fat versions of the ingredients, such as full-fat sweetened condensed milk and regular Cool Whip.
- Customize the toppings: If you’re not a fan of peanuts, you can substitute them with chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
- Make it ahead: This cake is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Make it a day ahead for a stress-free dessert option.
Toffee Butterscotch Poke Cake is a decadent and easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress. With its moist cake base, sweet butterscotch syrup, and crunchy toppings, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a special dessert at home, this cake is bound to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent, flavor-packed cake!
