Description
Nostalgic American classic “Peanut Butter and Jelly Poke Cake” brings childhood memories to life with creamy layers of comfort. Sweet and tangy flavors combine in this delightful dessert you’ll crave from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces / 432 grams) yellow or white cake mix (plus ingredients needed per package)
- 1 cup grape or strawberry jelly
- 1 cup (250 grams) creamy peanut butter
Frosting Ingredients:
- ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250 grams) powdered sugar
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) milk (more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping Ingredients:
- ¼ cup grape or strawberry jelly (warmed slightly for drizzling)
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cake foundation by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and baking the cake mix according to package directions in a rectangular baking dish.
- Allow the freshly baked cake to cool for approximately 10 minutes, creating a stable surface for further preparation.
- Transform the cake’s surface by systematically creating small channels using a wooden spoon handle or straw, ensuring uniform spacing of roughly one inch between each perforation.
- Gently warm the jelly in a microwave-safe container for 30 seconds to enhance its fluidity, then carefully pour the liquid jelly into the strategically placed holes, enabling complete absorption throughout the cake’s interior.
- Craft the creamy peanut butter frosting by vigorously blending softened peanut butter and butter until achieving a smooth consistency.
- Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk into the mixture, whipping until the frosting reaches a light, spreadable texture, adjusting liquid quantities as needed.
- Confirm the cake has completely cooled before applying an even layer of the peanut butter frosting across the entire surface.
- Create visual interest by reheating the remaining jelly and delicately drizzling it over the frosted cake, then using a knife to generate elegant marbled patterns.
- Enhance the cake’s texture and flavor by optionally sprinkling chopped peanuts across the top for an additional crunch.
- Slice the cake into neat squares, presenting a delightful dessert that celebrates the classic peanut butter and jelly combination.
Notes
- Choose a high-quality cake mix for a more flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of the dessert.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding jelly and frosting to prevent melting and maintain structural integrity.
- Experiment with different jelly flavors like strawberry, grape, or raspberry to create unique variations of this classic combination.
- Soften butter and peanut butter at room temperature for smoother, easier mixing and a more consistent frosting texture.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix and check that all other ingredients are celiac-friendly.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes after frosting to help the layers set and make cutting cleaner, more precise slices.
- Opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar for a less sweet, more authentic peanut flavor in the frosting.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 366
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 18 mg