S’mores Poke Cake Recipe

If you crave the flavors of summer campfires but want a treat that wows at any gathering, look no further than this S’mores Poke Cake. It’s the ultimate mash-up of fluffy chocolate cake, gooey marshmallow, whipped topping, and those essential graham cracker and chocolate bits. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or just surprising family on a Wednesday night, this S’mores Poke Cake will have everyone swooning—with nostalgia and chocolatey bliss in every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this S’mores Poke Cake is that it calls for simple, easily-found ingredients, but every single one brings a necessary touch—from deep chocolate flavor, to airy topping, to those crunchy graham cracker layers. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a quick tip for each component:

• Chocolate cake mix: The rich, moist base—pick your favorite brand for best results!
• Eggs (3): These give lift and structure; use large eggs for a perfect crumb.
• Water (as called for on box): Simple, but essential for blending the mix smoothly.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cake unbelievably moist—don’t skimp!
• Marshmallow fluff (7 oz.): The gooey, nostalgic layer that soaks into every bite.
• Cool Whip (12 oz., thawed): Light, fluffy topping that’s effortless to spread.
• Crushed graham crackers (2 cups): For that roasted s’mores crunch—crush them yourself for extra texture.
• Mini marshmallows (1 cup): Scatter over the top for classic s’mores melty goodness.
• Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Rich and melty—perfect contrast to sweet marshmallow; milk chocolate works, too!

How to Make S’mores Poke Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and generously coat a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This ensures your S’mores Poke Cake releases like a dream and bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

Grab a mixing bowl and combine the cake mix, eggs, water (according to the box instructions), and oil. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to create a silky-smooth batter that’s ready for magic.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour that luscious batter into your prepared pan, then slide it into the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center springs back lightly when touched. Your kitchen will smell like pure chocolate comfort.

Step 4: Poke and Fluff

Once baked, remove your cake from the oven and, while it’s still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top. Next, microwave the marshmallow fluff for just a few seconds—until it’s easy to stir. Pour the fluff evenly across the cake, making sure it sinks into those poked holes for maximum gooeyness.

Step 5: Layer with Creamy Cool Whip

Spread the thawed cool whip gently over the marshmallow layer. You’re building the creamy, cloud-like surface that makes this S’mores Poke Cake so irresistible and light.

Step 6: Add S’mores Toppings

Sprinkle crushed graham crackers, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips generously over the top. This step brings all the s’mores flavors together in one beautiful, crowd-pleasing finish.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Pop the finished cake in the refrigerator until it’s ready to serve. Chilling helps the layers meld and makes slicing effortless. Now it’s time for everyone to dig in and relive the bliss of classic s’mores in cake form!

How to Serve S’mores Poke Cake

Garnishes

The best part about serving S’mores Poke Cake is dressing it up! Try an extra sprinkle of chocolate chips, a few whole mini marshmallows, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. If you have a kitchen torch, give the marshmallows a quick toast right before serving for that true campfire touch.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich and decadent on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream. If you want something lighter, offer fresh strawberries or a simple fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to all the chocolaty sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your S’mores Poke Cake into small squares and tuck each onto a graham cracker “plate” for adorable single servings. Or serve in glass jars for a fun portable dessert—just layer cake pieces, fluff, and toppings for an eye-catching treat that travels well to picnics and parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover S’mores Poke Cake covered tightly in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for 3-4 days, and the flavors actually get better as they meld together!

Freezing

You can freeze S’mores Poke Cake in individual slices or as a whole cake. Wrap pieces well in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you want a little warmth, microwave a slice for just 10-15 seconds. The marshmallow will go gooey and the chocolate chips will get a touch melty—a swoon-worthy variation!

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite from-scratch chocolate cake recipe, use it in place of the boxed mix for a more personal touch. Just be sure it’s sized for a 9 x 13-inch pan.

Is there a substitute for Cool Whip?

If you prefer not to use Cool Whip, homemade whipped cream works wonderfully. Just whip cream with a bit of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and spread it as directed.

Can I toast the mini marshmallows on top?

Yes, and it adds amazing flavor! Use a kitchen torch to carefully toast the marshmallows, or place slices under a broiler for a few seconds (keep a close eye on them—they brown fast!).

How far ahead can I make S’mores Poke Cake?

It’s a great make-ahead dessert! You can assemble the whole cake up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, chilling overnight helps the flavors meld and makes cutting easier.

What if I can’t find marshmallow fluff?

No worries! You can make a quick substitute by melting mini marshmallows with a splash of corn syrup in the microwave, then stirring until smooth and spreadable.

Final Thoughts

Bring the campfire vibes indoors and treat your friends and family to the ultimate S’mores Poke Cake experience. It’s ridiculously easy, endlessly delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—one bite, and you might just have a new signature dessert!

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