Indulge in Decadence: German Chocolate Poke Cake Delight

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey of pure indulgence with our German Chocolate Poke Cake recipe. This delightful dessert is the epitome of decadence, featuring layers of rich chocolate cake infused with creamy filling and topped with luscious ganache and coconut pecan frosting. Perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a sweet treat, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Join us as we delve into the world of exquisite flavors and textures that define this beloved dessert.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 box dark chocolate fudge cake mix
1 (3.4 oz) box chocolate fudge instant pudding
4 large eggs
1 cup plain yogurt
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

For the Ganache:

4 oz chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Frosting:

1 can coconut pecan frosting

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark chocolate fudge cake mix, chocolate fudge instant pudding mix, eggs, plain yogurt, vegetable oil, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Make the Holes: While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
Add the Filling: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and saturate the cake.
Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then whisk until smooth and shiny.
Top the Cake with Ganache: Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Frost the Cake: Once the ganache has set slightly, spread the coconut pecan frosting over the top of the cake, covering it completely.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or until the frosting and ganache are set. Slice and serve chilled for best results.

Cook Notes and Variations

Add Nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the cake before serving.
Experiment with Frosting: If you prefer a homemade frosting, you can make your own coconut pecan frosting from scratch using shredded coconut, chopped pecans, sugar, and evaporated milk.
Customize the Cake Mix: While dark chocolate fudge cake mix adds depth of flavor, you can use any chocolate cake mix you prefer for this recipe.
Try Different Fillings: Get creative with the filling by using caramel sauce, fruit preserves, or even peanut butter for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and instant pudding mix to make this recipe gluten-free.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix? A: Yes, you can use any chocolate cake mix of your choice for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the baking time and follow the package instructions accordingly.

Q: How long will the cake stay fresh? A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the German Chocolate Poke Cake will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Q: Is there a substitute for coconut pecan frosting? A: If you’re not a fan of coconut or pecans, you can use a different frosting of your choice, such as cream cheese frosting or chocolate buttercream.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover slices of German Chocolate Poke Cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Indulge your senses and treat yourself to the irresistible allure of German Chocolate Poke Cake. With its decadent layers of chocolatey goodness, creamy filling, and luscious frosting, this dessert is a true masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate indulgence with every forkful of this delectable dessert. Enjoy!