Dreamy German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe: A Sweet Escape

Chocolate lovers will adore this scrumptious german chocolate poke cake that brings decadence to a whole new level.

Layers of moist cake create a dreamy dessert experience.

Coconut and pecan elements add rich, irresistible texture to every bite.

Soft chocolate surfaces get drenched with sweet condensed milk, creating incredible moisture throughout.

Home bakers can easily master this stunning treat with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Cool whipped frosting provides the perfect creamy finish that makes each slice absolutely irresistible.

German Chocolate Poke Cake: What Makes It Special

• Create Comfort Quickly: This German Chocolate Poke Cake transforms a simple boxed cake into a decadent dessert with minimal kitchen skills required.
• Customize with Ease: Personalize the cake by adding extra chocolate drizzle, experimenting with different nut variations, or adjusting sweetness levels to suit personal preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations where everyone craves a rich, indulgent sweet treat that looks professionally made.
• Stress-Free Baking: Requires basic baking tools, straightforward steps, and minimal ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all experience levels.

Ingredients to Craft German Chocolate Poke Cake

• German Chocolate Cake Mix: A classic mix that forms the foundation of this delightful dessert.

• Sweetened Condensed Milk, Caramel Sauce: A rich and creamy combination that adds moisture and sweet caramel flavor to the cake.

• Butter: Provides a rich and creamy base for the frosting.
• Evaporated Milk: Adds smoothness and helps create a silky texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps with caramelization.
• Egg Yolks: Contribute to the thickness and richness of the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Shredded Coconut, Chopped Pecans: Add texture and traditional German chocolate cake flavor.

• Chocolate Chips: Provides an extra layer of chocolatey decadence when melted and drizzled on top.

Step-by-Step Directions for German Chocolate Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake The Cake Base

Preheat the oven and prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13 inch baking pan. Let the cake cool for approximately 10 minutes after baking, creating a perfect foundation for your delectable dessert.

Step 2: Create Cake Channels

Grab a wooden spoon handle and gently poke holes across the entire cake surface. Space the holes about an inch apart, ensuring maximum sauce absorption throughout the cake.

Step 3: Develop Rich Liquid Filling

• Sweetened condensed milk
• Caramel sauce

Pour the combined mixture evenly over the cake, allowing the liquid to seep deeply into the poked holes. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature.

Step 4: Craft Decadent Coconut-Pecan Topping

• Butter
• Evaporated milk
• Granulated sugar
• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract

• Shredded coconut
• Chopped pecans

Allow the frosting to cool slightly and become spreadable.

Step 5: Lavish The Cake With Frosting

Spread the coconut-pecan frosting generously across the entire cake surface. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate chips over the top.

Step 6: Chill And Serve

Refrigerate the cake for a minimum of one hour, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich, decadent German chocolate experience.

Pro Tips for Perfect German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Soak Smartly: Pour the condensed milk and caramel mixture slowly to help it penetrate every hole in the cake, creating a moist and flavorful dessert.
• Whisk Consistently: Stir the frosting constantly while cooking to prevent burning and ensure a smooth, creamy texture that coats the cake perfectly.
• Toast for Depth: Lightly toast the pecans and coconut before adding them to the frosting to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
• Chill for Perfection: Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to let the flavors meld and the frosting set, creating a more cohesive and delicious dessert.
• Chocolate Drizzle Option: Add a melted chocolate chip drizzle on top for an extra layer of richness and a beautiful finishing touch to the cake.

Delicious Variations on German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Gluten-Free Chocolate Poke Cake: Replace traditional cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this delectable dessert.
• Vegan Coconut Dream Cake: Swap dairy ingredients with coconut milk, use vegan egg replacer, and select plant-based chocolate chips for a completely dairy-free version.
• Low-Sugar Chocolate Delight: Utilize sugar-free cake mix, replace sweetened condensed milk with a sugar-free alternative, and use stevia-sweetened chocolate chips to reduce overall sugar content.
• Nutless Wonder Cake: Omit pecans from the frosting and replace with toasted coconut flakes for those with nut allergies, maintaining the cake's rich texture and flavor profile.

Best Pairings with German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Pair Chocolate Richness with Bold Beverages
• Select robust red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or port to complement the cake's deep chocolate notes and enhance its decadent flavor profile.
• Complement Sweet Textures with Creamy Drinks
• Serve cold milk or smooth vanilla milkshake alongside the cake, creating a delightful contrast between the rich frosting and refreshing beverage.
• Elevate Dessert with Unexpected Flavor Combinations
• Match the cake with espresso or strong black coffee, allowing the bitter undertones to balance the cake's intense sweetness and highlight its complex layers.
• Create Harmonious Dessert Experience
• Consider pairing with hazelnut liqueur or bourbon, which can accentuate the cake's nutty pecan and coconut elements while providing a warming, sophisticated finish.

How to Store German Chocolate Poke Cake Properly

• Wrap the German Chocolate Poke Cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, keeping it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
• Place the cake in a freezer-safe container, covering completely with plastic wrap and an additional layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring no air exposure to prevent freezer burn.
• Transfer the frozen cake to the refrigerator the night before serving, allowing it to slowly defrost and preserve its moisture and texture. Remove wrapping once completely thawed.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on medium power, checking to prevent overheating.

FAQs on German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake mix with yellow or white cake mix for a different flavor profile, but the classic German chocolate taste works best with chocolate cake.

• How do I know when the frosting is thick enough?

The frosting is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear path when you run your finger through it. It should take about 10-12 minutes of constant stirring to reach the right consistency.

• Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies?

No, this recipe contains pecans in the frosting. For those with nut allergies, you’ll need to modify the recipe or choose an alternative frosting without nuts.

Heavy German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent German chocolate poke cake delivers a rich, moist symphony of flavors that dance across your palate. Chocolate lovers will savor each decadent spoonful of this classic dessert that promises pure culinary bliss.

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Ingredients

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Main Cake Ingredients:

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup water

Filling and Topping Ingredients:

• 1 (14 ounces) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (16 ounces) jar caramel sauce
• 1 (16 ounces) container whipped topping

Garnish Ingredients:

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup chocolate shavings

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cake at 350°F according to package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Cool for 10 minutes after baking, ensuring an even surface.
2. Create uniform holes across the entire cake using a wooden spoon handle, spacing them approximately 1 inch apart to allow maximum sauce absorption.
3. Whisk sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce until thoroughly integrated. Gently pour the mixture over the cake, carefully guiding the liquid into each perforation.
4. Craft the coconut-pecan frosting by combining butter, evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and reaches a rich, creamy consistency, approximately 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove frosting from heat and fold in shredded coconut and chopped pecans, creating a luscious, textured topping.
6. Once the cake has completely cooled, generously spread the coconut-pecan frosting across the entire surface, ensuring even coverage.
7. Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate chips over the frosting for an additional layer of decadence.
8. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and frosting to set. Serve chilled for optimal taste and texture.

Notes

• Ensure cake mix is at room temperature for even baking and smoother texture.
• Poke holes gently to prevent cake from breaking or crumbling during the process.
• Use a wooden spoon handle with a smooth, rounded tip for clean, uniform holes.
• Allow cake to cool slightly before poking to prevent burning your hands and maintain cake structure.
• Mix sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce thoroughly for consistent flavor distribution.
• Pour filling slowly and evenly to help liquid penetrate all cake holes completely.
• Stir coconut-pecan frosting constantly while cooking to prevent burning and achieve smooth consistency.
• Check frosting thickness by coating the back of a spoon – it should stick and not run off quickly.
• Let frosting cool slightly before spreading to prevent melting and sliding off the cake.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 28 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg