Chocolate Mint Poke Cake

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Mint Poke Cake

#### Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** (or the temperature recommended on your cake mix box). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box, typically by combining water, eggs, and oil with the cake mix. Mix everything until smooth and well-combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake according to the time on the cake mix box, usually around **30-35 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

#### Step 2: Poke the Cake
Once the cake has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, using the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure the holes are deep but not all the way through the cake. These holes will allow the minty filling to soak into the cake, creating that moist, flavorful texture that makes poke cakes so special.

#### Step 3: Make the Mint Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and the cold milk. Add the mint extract and mix until the pudding has thickened and is smooth. The mint extract will give it that refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

Carefully pour the mint filling over the top of the cake, making sure it fills all the holes. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly over the surface of the cake.

#### Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the whipped topping with powdered sugar and mint extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Spread this minty whipped topping evenly over the cake, covering it completely.

#### Step 5: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chocolate chips on top, or if you prefer, garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a beautiful, aromatic decoration.

Refrigerate the cake for at least **2 hours** (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together and for the cake to fully set. This also makes the cake even more refreshing and delicious!

### Tips for the Best Chocolate Mint Poke Cake

– **Adjust Mint Flavor**: If you love a strong mint flavor, feel free to increase the amount of mint extract in both the filling and the whipped topping. Start with 1 teaspoon and taste as you go!
– **Use Homemade Pudding**: For a richer filling, you can substitute the instant pudding with homemade chocolate pudding. This will add an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
– **Make it Extra Chocolaty**: If you’re a chocolate lover, you can add chocolate chips or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the mint topping for a more indulgent dessert.
– **Chill Overnight**: The cake will become even more flavorful and moist if you allow it to chill overnight. This will also help the layers set for a better texture.
– **Add a Crunch**: For some texture contrast, sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers on top before serving.

### Why You Should Make Chocolate Mint Poke Cake

**Chocolate Mint Poke Cake** is the perfect dessert for any chocolate and mint lover. Its combination of moist, fudgy cake, minty filling, and whipped topping creates a flavor explosion in every bite. This dessert is as easy to make as it is delicious, and it’s perfect for serving at parties, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something sweet.

What makes this cake stand out is its rich layers of flavor. The cake itself is soft and moist, thanks to the poke method that allows the filling to seep into every bite. The minty filling adds a refreshing contrast to the chocolate cake, and the whipped topping brings a light, creamy finish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize—whether you prefer more mint flavor, extra chocolate, or a different garnish, the possibilities are endless.

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious, **Chocolate Mint Poke Cake** is the perfect choice. Its delightful combination of chocolate and mint will be a hit at your next gathering, and with its simple ingredients and preparation, it’s a dessert anyone can make and enjoy. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this decadent dessert—it’s sure to become a favorite!