The Christmas Chocolate Mint Poke Cake is a decadent dessert that marries the rich flavors of chocolate with the refreshing zest of peppermint. This easy-to-make treat is sure to bring festive cheer to your holiday table, pleasing both chocolate and mint lovers alike.

Ingredients:

• Cake:
  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
• Filling:
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup hot fudge sauce (warmed slightly)
• Topping:
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
  • 1/4 cup chopped Andes mints or mini chocolate chips (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven according to the cake mix package instructions. Prepare the chocolate cake mix as directed and bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes after baking.

Step 2: Poke Holes

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, evenly poke holes across the surface of the slightly cooled cake.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Warm the hot fudge sauce to make it easier to pour. Combine it with the sweetened condensed milk until smooth, and pour this mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the poked holes. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Mint Cream

Mix the peppermint extract into the whipped topping until well combined. Spread this minty whipped cream evenly over the cooled cake.

Step 5: Decorate

Sprinkle crushed candy canes, chopped Andes mints, or mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping for a festive and colorful finish.

Step 6: Chill

Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cake to firm up.

Step 7: Serve

Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. This minty, chocolatey treat is perfect for any Christmas celebration!

Cooking Note:

For an extra minty flavor, you can mix some crushed peppermint candies into the cake batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this cake with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy holiday dessert experience.

Tips:

• Make sure the cake is just warm when poking holes to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
• For a homemade touch, try making your own whipped cream instead of using store-bought.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes (varies depending on the cake mix)

Total Time:

Approximately 4 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 210mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this cake a day ahead? A: Yes, this cake benefits from sitting overnight as it allows the flavors to fully develop and the filling to set.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have Andes mints? A: Any type of mint-flavored chocolate or even peppermint bark can be used as a substitute.

Conclusion

The Christmas Chocolate Mint Poke Cake is not just a dessert—it’s a festive celebration on a plate. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. Enjoy the holiday season with this sweet, minty indulgence that’s guaranteed to make your spirits bright!