Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe

Dreamy Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe for Coffee Lovers

Creamy chocolate layers with an espresso infused mocha poke cake spark serious dessert excitement.

Rich coffee notes weave through each delectable bite.

Soft cake punctured with decadent filling creates a mouthwatering experience.

Chocolate lovers appreciate how simple ingredients combine into something magical.

Brewing strong espresso intensifies the cake deep, complex flavor profile.

Unexpected moisture from strategic liquid additions guarantees incredible texture.

You will absolutely fall in love with this indulgent sweet treat that promises pure deliciousness in every single slice.

Best Ways to Store Espresso Infused Mocha Poke

  • Store the mocha poke cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
  • Wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months for longer-term storage.
  • Cut individual slices, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe container for convenient single-serving portions.
  • Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days if you plan to serve it soon, ensuring it stays protected from air and dust.

FAQs

  • Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, you can substitute instant coffee by dissolving 2-3 tablespoons in hot water to create a strong coffee base for the condensed milk mixture.

  • How do I know where to poke holes in the cake?

Use the back of a wooden spoon or a fork to create evenly spaced holes across the entire surface of the cake, allowing the espresso mixture to seep through completely.

  • Is this cake best served warm or cold?

The cake is best served chilled after refrigerating for at least 2 hours, which allows the espresso mixture to fully absorb and enhances the overall flavor profile.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which actually helps the flavors meld together even more deliciously.

What Makes Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Special

  • Boost Flavor Fast: Marinating beef in a savory blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sugar transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that packs a punch of deliciousness.
  • Master One-Pan Cooking: This stir-fry technique lets you create a complete meal using just a single wok or pan, minimizing cleanup and making dinner preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily swap beef with chicken or tofu, adjust spice levels, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe perfectly suited to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: With minimal prep and cooking steps, this Chinese beef and onion stir-fry delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknight dinners.

Key Ingredients for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke

For the Base:
  • Chocolate Cake Mix: A convenient foundation that creates a rich, moist chocolate cake for the dessert.
For the Moisture and Flavor Infusion:
  • Brewed Espresso: A strong coffee that adds deep, intense coffee flavor to the cake.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides creamy sweetness and helps the cake absorb the espresso.
For the Topping and Garnish:
  • Whipped Topping: A light, creamy layer that adds a smooth and airy texture to the cake.
  • Chocolate Frosting: Adds an extra layer of chocolate richness and decadence.
  • Cocoa Powder, Instant Espresso Powder: Provides a final dusting of intense coffee and chocolate flavors for an extra flavor boost.

Steps to Make Espresso Infused Mocha Poke

Step 1: Whip Up The Chocolate Base

Grab your favorite chocolate cake mix and follow the package directions to create a delectable cake. Pour the batter into a baking pan and bake until perfectly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 2: Create Delightful Holes

Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke multiple holes across the entire surface. Make sure the holes are evenly distributed to allow maximum flavor absorption.

Step 3: Drench With Espresso Magic

Brew a strong batch of espresso and blend it with sweetened condensed milk. Slowly pour this rich mixture over the cake, ensuring the liquid seeps into every hole.

The cake will transform into a moist, flavor-packed dessert.

Step 4: Smooth On Creamy Clouds

After the cake has completely cooled, generously spread whipped topping across the entire surface.

Use a spatula to create smooth, even layers that will make the cake look irresistible.

Step 5: Drizzle Chocolate Decadence

Cover the whipped topping with a layer of rich chocolate frosting.

Use gentle sweeping motions to create an elegant finish.

Step 6: Sprinkle Flavor Finale

Dust the top of the cake with a delicate combination of cocoa powder and instant espresso powder.

This final touch adds depth and an extra caffeine kick to your dessert.

Helpful Tips for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke

  • Brew a strong espresso for maximum coffee flavor infusion into the cake.
  • Let the cake cool completely before adding whipped topping to prevent melting.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother cake batter and better mixing.
  • Create uniform holes using the back of a wooden spoon or a fork for even espresso absorption.
  • Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to enhance flavor melding and achieve a more set texture.

Different Takes on Espresso Infused Mocha Poke

  • Café au Lait Poke Cake: Replace espresso with strong French-style coffee, adding a creamy, smooth flavor profile that enhances the chocolate base.
  • Salted Caramel Espresso Cake: Drizzle salted caramel sauce between espresso mixture and whipped topping, creating a rich, indulgent dessert with complex layers.
  • Mexican Mocha Poke Cake: Incorporate ground cinnamon and a hint of cayenne pepper into the espresso mixture, delivering a spicy-sweet chocolate experience inspired by traditional Mexican hot chocolate.
  • Hazelnut Mocha Version: Blend hazelnut liqueur into the espresso condensed milk mixture and garnish with crushed toasted hazelnuts for a nutty, sophisticated touch.

Ideas to Serve Espresso Infused Mocha Poke

  • Serve individual slices on elegant dessert plates with a small espresso shot on the side, creating a sophisticated coffee-dessert pairing that highlights the cake's rich mocha essence.
  • Refrigerate the cake for a few hours before serving to enhance the espresso-infused flavor and create a refreshing, dense texture that melts smoothly on the tongue.
  • Cut into bite-sized squares for a party dessert platter, garnishing each piece with a light dusting of cocoa powder and a chocolate-covered espresso bean for an extra gourmet touch.
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Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe

Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Mocha poke cake introduces espresso-rich layers of chocolate decadence from Italian coffee traditions. Rich chocolate and espresso create a luxurious dessert perfect for coffee enthusiasts and sweet tooth travelers.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 1 cup brewed espresso (240 ml)
  • 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 container whipped topping
  • 1 container chocolate frosting
  • 2 tbsps cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp instant espresso powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chocolate cake mix following package directions and bake in a standard rectangular pan at the recommended temperature until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cake to cool slightly, then use the handle of a wooden spoon to create evenly spaced deep holes across the entire surface.
  3. Combine strong brewed espresso with sweetened condensed milk, whisking until fully integrated.
  4. Slowly drizzle the espresso mixture over the warm cake, ensuring the liquid seeps into each created hole, saturating the interior of the cake.
  5. Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to allow the espresso mixture to completely absorb and cool the dessert.
  6. Gently spread a thick layer of whipped topping across the entire cake surface, creating an even, smooth coverage.
  7. Carefully apply chocolate frosting in a decorative pattern, using a piping bag or spatula for precise distribution.
  8. Finish by delicately dusting the top with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder and finely ground instant espresso powder to enhance the coffee-chocolate flavor profile.

Notes

  • Choose a high-quality chocolate cake mix for richer flavor and better texture.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before adding whipped topping to prevent melting.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut whipped cream and use dairy-free condensed milk alternative.
  • Enhance coffee intensity by using freshly brewed espresso instead of instant coffee powder, which can taste slightly bitter.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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