Dreamy Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe for Coffee Lovers

Delectable espresso-infused mocha poke cake brings a rich, decadent twist to traditional dessert experiences.

Coffee lovers will swoon over this indulgent treat that marries deep chocolate notes with bold espresso undertones.

Layers of moist cake get drenched in a luxurious mocha sauce that seeps into every delightful crumb.

Soft, velvety textures blend seamlessly with intense flavor profiles that dance across your palate.

Chocolate enthusiasts and caffeine addicts alike will find themselves utterly captivated by this irresistible confection.

Simple ingredients combine to create a sophisticated dessert that feels like a gourmet experience.

One forkful promises to transport you to a cozy café with its complex, yet comforting essence.

You won’t be able to resist diving into this extraordinary culinary creation.

FAQs

• What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a dessert where holes are made in a baked cake and then filled with a liquid or sauce to add moisture and extra flavor.

• Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, you can substitute espresso with strong instant coffee, but the flavor will be slightly less intense.

• How do I know when the cake has absorbed enough liquid?

The cake should look moist and slightly saturated, but not soggy or falling apart. The liquid should fill the holes completely.

• Is this dessert best served cold or at room temperature?

This mocha poke cake is best served chilled, as the ganache and espresso mixture set better when cold, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Overview

• Brew Coffee Bliss: Transform a simple chocolate cake into a luxurious dessert with rich espresso flavors that dance on your taste buds.
• Maximize Crowd-Pleaser Potential: This recipe impresses guests with minimal effort, making it perfect for dinner parties, potlucks, or weekend gatherings.
• Create Texture Magic: Poking holes allows the espresso and sweetened condensed milk to penetrate deeply, creating a moist, decadent cake that melts in your mouth.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by switching chocolate ganache for caramel or adding different toppings to match your mood or occasion.

Ingredients for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

• Chocolate Cake Mix: A rich and moist foundation for the decadent mocha dessert.

• Brewed Espresso: Adds deep coffee flavor and moisture to the cake.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides creamy sweetness and helps the cake absorb liquid.

• Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a light and fluffy cream topping.
• Chocolate Ganache: A smooth, rich chocolate layer that adds depth and elegance.
• Cocoa Powder: Provides a classic chocolate dusting for visual appeal and extra flavor.

How to Prepare Espresso Mocha Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake The Decadent Chocolate Cake

Whip up a rich chocolate cake following the box mix directions.

Pour the batter into a baking pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the cake cool slightly while keeping the oven warmth nearby.

Step 2: Create Delicious Cake Holes

Take the back of a wooden spoon and gently poke evenly spaced holes across the entire surface of the warm cake.

Make sure the holes are deep enough to allow liquid absorption but not so aggressive that you tear the cake’s delicate structure.

Step 3: Drench With Espresso Magic

Brew a strong batch of espresso and grab your sweetened condensed milk.

Slowly pour the espresso and condensed milk mixture over the cake, allowing the liquid to seep into every hole.

Watch as the cake transforms, becoming incredibly moist and infused with deep coffee flavor.

Step 4: Craft Silky Chocolate Ganache

Prepare a luscious chocolate ganache by combining warm cream with dark chocolate.

Stir until smooth and glossy.

Carefully spread the ganache over the espresso-soaked cake, ensuring complete coverage that creates a decadent chocolate layer.

Step 5: Chill And Finish With Flair

Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours to let the flavors meld and set.

Before serving, top with fluffy whipped cream and dust with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Slice and enjoy this indulgent espresso mocha masterpiece.

Pro Tips for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

• Brew high-quality espresso shots for a richer, more intense coffee taste that penetrates the cake deeply.
• Use a wooden skewer or chopstick to create uniform, evenly spaced holes for consistent moisture distribution throughout the cake.
• Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the espresso and condensed milk to fully soak into the cake layers.
• Stabilize whipped cream by adding a touch of powdered sugar and vanilla extract to prevent deflating and maintain a fluffy texture.
• Dust cocoa powder through a fine-mesh sieve for an elegant, even coating that enhances the cake's visual appeal.

Variations for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

• Low-Caffeine Mocha: Replace espresso with decaf coffee for a milder flavor that's perfect for evening desserts.
• Vegan Chocolate Dream: Swap traditional cake mix with dairy-free chocolate cake, use coconut condensed milk, and top with coconut whipped cream.
• Gluten-Free Coffee Lover's Cake: Use gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Mexican Chocolate Remix: Add ground cinnamon and a pinch of chili powder to the ganache for a warm, spicy kick that enhances the chocolate and coffee flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

• Coffee Shop Companion: Serve alongside a steaming cappuccino to enhance the rich espresso notes in the cake.
• Dessert Party Centerpiece: Create an elegant display by slicing the cake into precise squares and arranging on a decorative platter with cocoa powder dusting.
• Adult Indulgence Pairing: Match with a small glass of amaretto or kahlua liqueur to complement the deep chocolate and coffee flavors.
• Brunch Showstopper: Offer thin slices as a decadent morning treat with freshly brewed espresso, perfect for weekend gatherings.

Storage Guidelines for Espresso Mocha Poke Cake

• Store cake covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Cut into portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Frozen slices stay fresh for 1 month.
• Warm refrigerated cake slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds. For frozen slices, thaw in refrigerator first, then warm briefly. Avoid overheating to maintain moisture and texture.

Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Espresso-infused mocha poke cake delivers rich coffee-chocolate magic straight from culinary heaven. Silky layers of moist cake promise a dreamy dessert experience that will enchant coffee and chocolate enthusiasts with each luxurious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup brewed espresso
• 1 can (14 ounces / 397 grams) sweetened condensed milk

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 cup chocolate ganache

Garnish:

• 1 cup whipped cream
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

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Instructions

1. Prepare chocolate cake batter according to package directions and bake in a 9×13 inch pan at 350°F for recommended time until a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Allow cake to cool for 10 minutes, then use the handle of a wooden spoon to create evenly spaced holes across the entire surface of the cake.
3. Brew a strong espresso shot and mix with sweetened condensed milk, then slowly pour the liquid mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into each hole and saturates the cake’s interior.
4. Craft a rich chocolate ganache by melting chocolate and cream together, then smoothly spread it over the entire cake surface, filling the poked holes completely.
5. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the ganache and espresso mixture to set and enhance the cake’s moisture and flavor profile.
6. Before serving, whip fresh cream until soft peaks form and generously spread over the chilled cake.
7. Dust the top with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant finishing touch and serve chilled.

Notes

• Cool the cake completely before poking holes to prevent crumbling and ensure even espresso absorption.
• Use a high-quality espresso for richer, more intense coffee flavor that complements the chocolate base.
• Consider reducing condensed milk for a less sweet version or using sugar-free alternatives for diabetic-friendly options.
• Experiment with dairy-free whipped cream and gluten-free cake mix to accommodate various dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 28 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg