If you're looking to indulge in a dessert that combines rich chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans, then look no further than the German Chocolate Poke Cake. This decadent treat is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth. Follow along as we guide you through creating this delicious masterpiece step-by-step. Get ready to wow your friends and family with a cake that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.

What is German Chocolate Poke Cake?
The German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the traditional German Chocolate Cake. The "poke cake" concept involves baking a cake and then poking holes throughout it to fill with a luscious mixture, in this case, a blend of sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and brown sugar. This technique ensures that every bite is moist and bursting with flavor. The cake is then topped with a delightful combination of pecans and sweetened flaked coconut, giving it a unique texture and taste that is sure to impress.
Ingredients List for German Chocolate Poke Cake
To create this scrumptious cake, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Chocolate Cake Mix (Betty Crocker Super Moist Chocolate Fudge recommended)
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup oil
For the Filling:
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the Topping:
- ⅔ cup chopped pecans
- ⅔ cup sweetened flaked coconut
Substitutions and Variations
While the traditional ingredients are fantastic, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try to make this recipe your own:
- Cake Mix: Feel free to use any brand or type of chocolate cake mix you prefer. You could even use a homemade chocolate cake recipe if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: If you prefer a less sweet version, try using evaporated milk mixed with a little sugar.
- Butter: Salted butter can be used if you don't have unsalted butter on hand, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
- Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can replace pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Coconut: Unsweetened coconut flakes can be used if you want to cut down on sugar, though it will alter the sweetness of the cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating this German Chocolate Poke Cake is straightforward if you follow these step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and oil. Mix until well blended.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Bake according to the package instructions, usually around 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until it is dissolved and combined.
- Remove from heat and mix in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Step 3: Poke and Fill the Cake
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake at approximately 1-inch intervals.
- Pour the filling mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if necessary.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the cake.
- Follow with the sweetened flaked coconut, ensuring an even distribution.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: This can make the cake dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Not Poking Enough Holes: The filling needs to seep into the cake. Ensure you poke plenty of holes.
- Pouring Filling on a Hot Cake: Let the cake cool slightly before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming too runny.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake
This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more decadent touch, drizzle some chocolate syrup over each slice before serving.
Presentation Ideas for German Chocolate Poke Cake
- Decorative Drizzle: After the cake has set, drizzle some melted chocolate or caramel sauce in a crisscross pattern on top for an elegant look.
- Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a burst of color and a hint of tartness that complements the rich chocolate.
- Layered Look: Serve slices with visible layers of cake and filling to showcase the poke cake technique.
German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe Tips
- Cooling the Cake: Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This helps set the filling properly.
- Chilling Time: For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
Q: Can I freeze German Chocolate Poke Cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of pecans? A: Walnuts or almonds are great substitutes if you don't have pecans.
Q: Is there a way to make this cake less sweet? A: You can use unsweetened coconut flakes and reduce the amount of brown sugar in the filling to make the cake less sweet.
Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix? A: Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix to create your own variation of the poke cake.
Conclusion
The German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dessert that is surprisingly easy to make. With its moist texture and rich flavor, it's sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some variations, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Don’t wait for a special occasion to make it – whip one up today and enjoy a slice of chocolate heaven!
PrintGerman Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
This German Chocolate Poke Cake recipe combines a moist chocolate cake mix with rich toppings of sweetened condensed milk, pecans, and coconut flakes for a decadent treat. Perfect for celebrations and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Chocolate Cake Mix (e.g., Betty Crocker Super Moist Chocolate Fudge) + ingredients to make the cake (3 eggs, 1 cup water, ½ cup oil)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened condensed milk
- ⅔ cup chopped pecans
- ⅔ cup sweetened flaked coconut flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix as per the package instructions, using the eggs, water, and oil.
- Once baked, poke holes all over the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- In a saucepan, melt the brown sugar and butter together, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans and sweetened flaked coconut evenly over the top.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, toast the pecans and coconut flakes before sprinkling on the cake.
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before cutting to maintain structure.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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