Description
Heath Bar Poke Cake
Indulge in layers of chocolate goodness with this Heath Bar Poke Cake, featuring a rich chocolate cake soaked in caramel and topped with creamy whipped topping and crunchy Heath bar bits. It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to make cake)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup caramel sauce
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1/2 cup crushed Heath bars (about 4-5 bars)
Extra Heath bar bits for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven according to the chocolate cake mix instructions. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Prepare Cake:
Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions and pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake:
Bake the cake as directed, then remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
Poke Holes:
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
Mix Caramel and Milk:
In a bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
Cool and Top:
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the whipped topping over the entire surface.
Add Heath Bars:
Sprinkle the crushed Heath bars over the whipped topping, pressing them gently to adhere.
Chill:
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld. Garnish with additional Heath bar bits if desired.
Enjoy!
Slice and serve this decadent cake at your next gathering for a sweet treat everyone will love!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 12 servings
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cake every time. After baking and cooling the cake for 15 minutes, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes. Ensure the holes are deep but do not touch the bottom of the pan. Slowly pour the caramel and condensed milk mixture over the warm cake, pausing to let it absorb fully into each hole. For the topping, ensure the cake is completely cool before spreading the whipped topping to prevent melting. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even layer before adding the crushed candy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice with a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes an excellent accompaniment. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few extra Heath bar bits on each plate just before serving. This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or a glass of cold milk.
How-to Summary
Bake a chocolate cake mix in a 9×13 pan. After a brief cool, poke holes all over it. Combine sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce, then pour over the cake. Let cool completely, top with whipped topping and crushed Heath bars, and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely. This cake actually benefits from being made a day in advance, as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip? You can use an equal amount of stabilized homemade whipped cream or a non-dairy whipped topping alternative.
My caramel mixture pooled at the bottom. What went wrong? This usually happens if the cake was over-poked, creating tunnels, or if the mixture was poured on a cold cake. Ensure the cake is still slightly warm and the holes are numerous but not gigantic.
Can I use a different candy? Yes, chopped Skor bars, toffee bits, or even crushed butterfinger bars work wonderfully as a substitute.
How should I store leftovers? Keep the cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Poking holes when the cake is hot: Let it cool for 15 minutes first to avoid crumbling.
- Using cold topping on a warm cake: This will cause the whipped topping to melt and become runny.
- Not chilling long enough: The cake needs the full 2+ hours in the fridge to set properly and allow the soak to distribute.
- Over-mixing the cake batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
Conclusion
This Heath Bar Poke Cake is the ultimate easy yet impressive dessert. The combination of moist chocolate cake, sweet caramel soak, and crunchy toffee is simply irresistible. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a flawless, crowd-pleasing treat. Its make-ahead nature makes it perfect for parties, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a decadent, delicious finale.