German Chocolate Poke Cake

Featured in Sweet Creations and Baking Adventures.

German Chocolate Poke Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines the ease of a cake mix with the rich flavors of caramel, coconut, and pecans. This recipe starts with a chocolate cake base, which is poked with holes and soaked with a mixture of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and caramel sauce. The cake is then topped with whipped topping, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. This poke cake is perfect for potlucks, parties, or any occasion that calls for a sweet and satisfying treat. It’s easy to customize with different toppings and flavors, making it a versatile dessert that everyone will love.
Rana
Updated on Mon, 03 Mar 2025 04:12:16 GMT
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This German Chocolate Poke Cake recipe is a fantastic, comprehensive guide! Let's add a warm, personal touch to it, making it feel like we're baking this decadent treat together.

Imagine a dessert that's the epitome of comfort and indulgence, a cake that's both rich and moist, with layers of chocolate, caramel, and nutty goodness. This German Chocolate Poke Cake is just that – a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. It's a cake that brings smiles and satisfies every sweet craving.

Ingredient Essentials

Chocolate Cake Mix:
The base of our rich, chocolatey cake.
Milk:
Adds moisture and richness. Whole milk is best, but alternatives work too.
Vegetable Oil:
Keeps the cake soft and moist.
Eggs:
Provide structure and stability.
Vanilla Extract:
Enhances the chocolate flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk:
Adds creaminess and sweetness to the filling.
Evaporated Milk:
Provides a lighter texture to the filling.
Caramel Sauce:
Gives the cake its signature gooey texture.
Shredded Coconut:
A key ingredient in German Chocolate Cake.
Chopped Pecans:
Add crunch and nuttiness.
Whipped Topping (Cool Whip or Homemade):
A light, airy contrast.
Chocolate Syrup:
Optional, but adds an extra chocolatey finish.

Crafting Your German Chocolate Poke Cake

Baking the Cake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine cake mix, milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let it cool slightly.
Poking and Filling:
Poke holes in the cake with a wooden spoon handle.
Mix condensed milk, evaporated milk, and caramel sauce.
Pour over the cake and let it soak for 30 minutes.
Topping and Finishing:
Cool the cake completely.
Spread whipped topping evenly.
Sprinkle coconut and pecans.
Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
Chill for at least 2 hours.
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I remember the first time I made this cake, the smell of the caramel and chocolate was amazing. It was a huge hit with my family, and we couldn’t get enough.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled slices with coffee, milk, or dessert wine. Warm a slice and top with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

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The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake | flavorsenthusiasts.com

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Toast the coconut and pecans for enhanced flavor.
Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer taste.
Experiment with different toppings like chocolate ganache or caramel drizzle.
Use coffee instead of milk for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel filling.

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. I hope you enjoy creating and sharing this delicious cake as much as I do.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives.
→ Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes, homemade caramel sauce will add an extra layer of flavor.
→ Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free milk, whipped topping, and dairy-free caramel sauce.
→ How long can I store this cake?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

German Chocolate Poke Cake

Moist German Chocolate Poke Cake with a sweet caramel filling and a classic coconut pecan topping.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
35 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
By: Rana

Category: Desserts & Pastry

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Cake

01 1 box chocolate cake mix
02 1 cup milk
03 ½ cup vegetable oil
04 3 large eggs
05 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ For the filling

06 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
07 1 cup evaporated milk
08 1 cup caramel sauce

→ For the topping

09 1 ½ cups shredded coconut
10 1 cup chopped pecans
11 1 ½ cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
12 ½ cup chocolate syrup

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake according to the package instructions (usually about 30-35 minutes).

Step 02

Once the cake is out of the oven and slightly cooled, use the back of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake. In a bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and caramel sauce. Pour the mixture over the cake, letting it soak into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the topping.

Step 03

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake. Sprinkle with shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the top for extra decadence. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  1. Moisture Matters – Let the cake cool slightly before adding the filling to avoid a soggy texture.
  2. Chilling Enhances Flavor – Refrigerating the cake for a few hours or overnight allows the caramel and milk mixture to fully absorb, resulting in a richer taste.
  3. Customizable Toppings – Feel free to experiment with different drizzles like white chocolate, espresso syrup, or extra caramel for a unique twist.
  4. Dietary Adjustments – Easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free, gluten-free, or nut-free using alternative ingredients.
  5. Storage Tips – Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze individual slices for a quick, delicious treat later.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy
  • Nuts (pecans)
  • Gluten (in cake mix)
  • Eggs