This German Chocolate Poke Cake is an indulgent, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress. With a moist chocolate cake base soaked in sweetened condensed milk and topped with a rich coconut-pecan frosting, it’s everything you love about German chocolate cake—made even better! It’s the perfect cake for special occasions, potlucks, or whenever you need a sweet treat. Let’s dive into this decadent, easy-to-make poke cake recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for German Chocolate Poke Cake
- Instructions for German Chocolate Poke Cake
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for German Chocolate Poke Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- Shredded coconut for sprinkling
Instructions for German Chocolate Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
Step 3: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Topping
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and egg yolks.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
- Let the mixture cool for 5-10 minutes before spreading it evenly over the top of the cake.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- For an extra decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cake and sprinkle with additional chopped pecans and shredded coconut.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Tips & Notes
- Poke While Warm: Poke the holes in the cake while it’s still warm, which will make it easier for the condensed milk to soak into the cake.
- Constant Stirring: When making the coconut-pecan topping, stir constantly to avoid scrambling the egg yolks and to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Chill for Best Results: For the best texture, let the cake chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a fancier presentation, drizzle white chocolate as well as regular chocolate over the top.
- Nut-Free Option: If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and add extra shredded coconut.
- Caramel Poke Cake: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with caramel sauce for a caramel-flavored poke cake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I store German Chocolate Poke Cake?
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made 1-2 days in advance. The flavors only get better as the cake sits and absorbs the condensed milk and coconut-pecan topping.
3. Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?
Yes! You can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe instead of the box mix. Just ensure it’s baked in a 9×13-inch pan for the right size.
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is the perfect blend of chocolatey decadence and rich coconut-pecan flavor. The moist cake soaked in sweetened condensed milk combined with the luscious topping makes every bite absolutely irresistible. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, this poke cake is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic dessert!
Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet bite!
