If you love rich, indulgent desserts, then this German Chocolate Poke Cake is a must-try! It’s a decadent twist on classic German chocolate cake, featuring a moist chocolate base soaked in sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Topped with chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and luscious drizzles of chocolate and caramel frosting, this cake is pure bliss in every bite. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a weekend treat, this easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Uses a boxed cake mix for convenience, yet tastes homemade!
- Incredibly Moist & Gooey – The poke cake method ensures a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Loaded with Flavor – A perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, coconut, and pecans.
- Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you love chocolate!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix (+ ingredients required on the package) 🍫
For the Filling:
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk 🥛
- 1 cup caramel sauce
For the Topping:
- ½ cup chocolate chips 🍫
- ½ cup shredded coconut 🥥
- ½ cup chopped pecans 🌰
- ½ cup chocolate frosting
- ½ cup caramel frosting
Optional Substitutions:
- Nut-Free? Omit pecans and add extra coconut.
- Dairy-Free? Use coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Directions
1. Prepare and Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box. Prepare the German chocolate cake batter according to package instructions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Poke the Cake & Add Filling
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake. Make sure the holes go deep so the filling can soak in.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce on top, letting it seep into the holes.
3. Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans evenly over the cake.
- Warm the chocolate and caramel frostings slightly (a few seconds in the microwave will help).
- Drizzle both frostings over the cake for an extra-rich topping.
4. Chill & Serve
For the best texture and flavor, let the cake chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve cold or at room temperature, and enjoy every bite of its gooey, chocolatey goodness!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! 🍦
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Helpful Notes
✔ For a stronger caramel flavor, add an extra drizzle of caramel sauce before serving. ✔ Use a warm knife to slice for clean, neat cuts. ✔ Want extra crunch? Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the cake. ✔ Let the cake sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to blend even better!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! A chocolate or devil’s food cake mix works well if you don’t have German chocolate cake mix.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
3. What’s the best caramel sauce to use?
A thick, high-quality caramel sauce is ideal. You can also use dulce de leche for an even richer taste.
4. Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes! Simply omit the pecans and add more shredded coconut or chocolate chips.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of chocolate, caramel, and coconut, this German Chocolate Poke Cake will become a new favorite. It’s easy to make, incredibly moist, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or just indulging in a chocolate craving, this cake is always a hit!