Ultimate Butterfinger Candy Bar Poke Cake Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 73% of Home Bakers Avoid Poke Cakes Because They Think They’re Too Complicated?

I used to be part of that statistic too—until I discovered this magical Butterfinger Candy Bar Poke Cake recipe that changed everything. There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the crunch of Butterfinger bars melting into moist cake, creating pockets of caramelized peanut butter bliss. And here’s the secret: what looks like a showstopping dessert actually comes together with less effort than frosting a layer cake!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it was the first “fancy” dessert I ever made for my husband’s birthday. His eyes lit up like a kid on Halloween when he took that first bite—the way the chocolate ganache seeps into the warm cake, the Butterfinger pieces creating little surprises in every forkful. Now it’s our family’s go-to celebration cake, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

What makes this Butterfinger poke cake truly special is how the candy bar transforms during baking. Those crisp, flaky layers soften just enough to create a caramel-like texture while maintaining that signature peanut butter crunch in every bite. And unlike traditional poke cakes that can become soggy, this version stays perfectly moist thanks to the candy’s unique composition.

The best part? You probably have most ingredients in your pantry right now. A simple boxed cake mix becomes extraordinary when you add the Butterfinger magic. As we walk through the steps together, you’ll see why this dessert has become a legend in my circle of friends—and why it might just become your new signature potluck dish too.

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Butterfinger Candy Bar Poke Cake

There’s something magical about the combination of moist cake, creamy filling, and the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars. This poke cake is a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories while satisfying every sweet tooth at the table. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, birthday party, or just because, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 box chocolate cake mix – I love using devil’s food for that deep, rich flavor, but any chocolate variety works.
• 3 large eggs – Room temperature eggs blend better into the batter for a smoother texture.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake tender and moist.
• 1 cup water – Simple, but essential for bringing the batter together.
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – This is the secret to that luscious, gooey filling.
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping – Thawed, for a light and fluffy frosting.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – Adds that nutty richness that pairs perfectly with Butterfinger.
• 6 full-size Butterfinger candy bars – Crushed into small pieces for maximum crunch in every bite.
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce – Optional, but oh-so-worth it for a drizzle on top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, oil, and water, stirring until just smooth—don’t overmix! Pour the batter into your prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tip: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before poking—this helps it hold its shape but still absorbs all that delicious filling.

Step 2: Poke and Soak

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about an inch apart. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the top, letting it seep into the holes. This step is pure magic—the cake will soak up every drop, making it irresistibly moist.

Step 3: Peanut Butter Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter for about 20-30 seconds until it’s slightly runny. Drizzle it evenly over the cake, then gently spread it with a spatula. The warmth helps it mingle with the condensed milk for a dreamy, caramel-like swirl.

Conclusion

This Butterfinger Candy Bar Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the irresistible crunch of Butterfinger candy bars paired with moist, flavorful cake. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The combination of caramel drizzle, fluffy whipped topping, and crushed Butterfinger pieces creates a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Ready to indulge? Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. And if you’re craving more decadent desserts, don’t forget to check out our other cake recipes for more inspiration!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of candy bar?

Absolutely! While Butterfinger is the star here, you can swap it for other crunchy candy bars like Crunchie, Heath, or even Snickers for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust the quantities accordingly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes even better when made a day in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the cake stays moist. Just store it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

If you’re out of sweetened condensed milk, you can substitute it with a mixture of heavy cream and sugar (simmered until slightly thickened) or even caramel sauce for a similar effect.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The whipped topping and candy may soften slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix?

Of course! If you prefer baking from scratch, a simple yellow or chocolate cake recipe will work just as well. Just make sure it’s baked in a 9×13-inch pan for the right proportions.