German Chocolate Poke Cake

Name: German Chocolate Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: German chocolate cake mix; Eggs; Vegetable oil; Water; Coconut flakes; Pecans; Sweetened condensed milk; Cream cheese; Powdered sugar

Published: February 24, 2025

by Emma Taylor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This mouthwatering German Chocolate Poke Cake is incredibly easy to prepare while delivering unforgettable flavors.
The combination of chocolatey goodness and luscious coconut pecan frosting makes it visually stunning on any table.
You’ll find yourself wanting to make this versatile dessert for every occasion!

A personal experience comes rushing back to me; my friend claimed she couldn’t bake, yet this cake became her signature dish, bringing smiles to everyone who tasted it!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

German Chocolate Cake Mix: A convenient choice; just follow package instructions for moist texture.
Eggs: Fresh eggs work best; they help bind everything together nicely.
Vegetable Oil: Use oil for moisture; avoid substituting with butter to keep the cake light.
Water: Simple tap water will do; it’s essential for mixing the batter smoothly.

For the Topping:

Coconut Flakes: Choose unsweetened flakes for balanced sweetness in your frosting.
Pecans: Lightly toasted pecans add crunch; chop them coarsely for better texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This magical ingredient ensures your frosting is rich and creamy!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the frosting a delightful tanginess.
Powdered Sugar: Use powdered sugar for a smooth, sweet finish that blends perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray.

Prepare the batter by mixing the German chocolate cake mix with eggs, oil, and water until smooth. Don’t be shy—get those muscles working! You want no lumps here.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—this is your moment of truth!

Once baked, let it cool slightly before making holes all over the top with a wooden spoon handle. It’ll look like a Swiss cheese factory exploded—but that’s precisely what we want!

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk with coconut flakes and chopped pecans. Stir until bubbling and thickened—oh boy, you’ll be tempted to eat it straight from the pot!

Spread this delicious mixture over your cooled cake while it’s still warm so it seeps in beautifully. Trust me; you want these flavors intertwined!

Finish off by preparing your frosting. Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Spread generously over your now-cool masterpiece.

Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving—it’ll be worth every second of waiting! Slice into delightful squares and watch as everyone goes back for seconds (or thirds!).

Enjoy sharing this heavenly dessert at parties or simply indulge yourself—I won’t tell if you don’t!

You Must Know

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert.
The rich chocolate flavor combined with the coconut and pecan topping creates a taste explosion.
It’s perfect for any occasion, making guests swoon while hiding how easy it is to make.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking your chocolate cake according to package instructions. While it cools, prepare your coconut-pecan frosting, allowing flavors to meld before poking holes in the cake.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular chocolate for dark chocolate or add a splash of espresso for depth. You can also use different nuts or even eliminate them if desired.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Pay attention to cake cooling times; warm cake absorbs toppings better for flavor.
Use a wooden skewer for evenly spaced holes without breaking apart your masterpiece.
Always let your frosting cool slightly before spreading—it makes application easier and prevents melting.

It was my grandma’s birthday, and I decided to surprise her with this cake. Watching her light up as she took the first bite made every bit of effort worth it.

FAQs

FAQ

What makes this German Chocolate Poke Cake unique?

The combination of moist chocolate cake and luscious coconut-pecan frosting sets it apart.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make it a day in advance to deepen the flavors.

What can I substitute for pecans?

Try walnuts or skip nuts entirely for a nut-free version of this German Chocolate Poke Cake

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