Name: Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American Southern
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 1 1/4 cups water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; 1 cup chocolate frosting

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Introduction

Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake is a luscious dessert that combines moist chocolate cake with a rich coconut-pecan topping soaked into every bite. This simple recipe delivers classic flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home.

The image shows a square piece of dessert with three distinct layers. The bottom layer is a dark, rich chocolate cake with a soft texture. The middle layer is a gooey caramel mixed with chopped nuts, creating a sticky and crunchy texture with a golden-brown color. The top layer is a smooth chocolate glaze covered with whole pecans and dark chocolate chips scattered across the surface. The dessert is placed on a white plate with a subtle decorative edge, set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1 cup chocolate frosting

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the top.
Step 5: Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to soak deeply into the holes.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans evenly over the cake, then drizzle with caramel sauce.
Step 7: Let the cake cool completely, then spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
Step 8: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set.

Tips & Variations

Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better texture.
Toast the coconut lightly before sprinkling for extra crunch and flavor.
Swap caramel sauce with salted caramel for a deeper flavor contrast.
Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake batter to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Try crushed toffee bits or toasted almonds on top for added texture.
Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easier cake removal.

Storage

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake remains moist, though the topping may soften slightly over time. Serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before enjoying. Reheat gently if desired, but the cake is best served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square dessert slice showing three visible layers on a white plate; the bottom layer is dark brown and looks moist like chocolate cake, the middle layer is a sticky, light golden mix with a textured, nutty and caramel appearance, and the top layer is a glossy dark chocolate spread thickly over the middle, sprinkled with whole pecans and small, shiny chocolate chips, all against a white marbled surface background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What makes a German chocolate poke cake different from regular German chocolate cake?

Unlike traditional German chocolate cake which layers coconut-pecan filling between cake layers, a German chocolate poke cake is baked whole and then poked with holes to pour the coconut-pecan mixture inside. This technique soaks the filling throughout the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.

Can I make German chocolate poke cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes better when made a day ahead because chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight before serving.

What’s the best way to poke holes in a poke cake?

Use the rounded end of a wooden spoon or a chopstick to create evenly spaced holes about 1 inch apart. For this recipe, make slightly larger holes to accommodate the chunky coconut-pecan filling.

How do you store leftover German chocolate poke cake?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The moist texture is well preserved, though the topping may soften. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.