German Chocolate Poke Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that will wow your friends and family, this German Chocolate Poke Cake is just the ticket! It’s rich, indulgent, and incredibly easy to whip up. I love how the combination of flavors—sweetened condensed milk, gooey coconut-pecan filling, and silky chocolate ganache—creates a symphony of taste that everyone adores. This cake is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending all day in the kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, heading to a potluck, or just treating yourself after a long day, this cake never disappoints. You’ll find that it’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings smiles. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this cake in the oven in no time.
- Family Favorite: The delightful mix of chocolate, caramel, coconut, and pecans makes this cake appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This poke cake gets even better after chilling in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweetened condensed milk and chocolate creates a moist texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll be pleased to know these are all simple, wholesome items that you can find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you need to make this delicious German Chocolate Poke Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (e.g., Devil’s food)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans (toasted if preferred)
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Variations
One of the wonderful things about this German Chocolate Poke Cake is its flexibility. Feel free to put your own spin on it! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:
- Add Different Nuts: Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer some variety or happen to have them on hand.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix for a version that everyone can enjoy.
- Try Different Toppings: Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for an added touch of freshness and flair.
- Infuse with Flavor: Add a splash of coconut extract to deepen the coconut flavor even more.
How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Start by preparing the chocolate cake according to the package directions. Bake it in a 9×13-inch pan until it’s perfectly fluffy. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period is crucial because it allows the cake to set slightly before we poke those holes!
Step 2: Poke Holes
Using the handle of a wooden spoon (or any similar tool), poke holes all over the warm cake. These holes are essential—they will allow all that sweetened condensed milk goodness to seep deep into the cake, ensuring every bite is rich and moist.
Step 3: Soak with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Now comes the fun part! Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over your poked cake. Take your time with this step; let it soak into those holes so every piece is filled with creamy richness.
Step 4: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
Next, drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cake. The sweetness from the caramel pairs beautifully with the chocolate base and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Step 5: Make Coconut-Pecan Layer
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and then stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Heat until everything is warmed through. This mixture adds texture and flavor—spread it evenly over your deliciously soaked cake!
Step 6: Prepare Ganache
Heat heavy cream until just simmering, then pour it over chocolate chips in a bowl. Allow it to sit for about 2–3 minutes before stirring until smooth. This glossy ganache will be the final touch that brings everything together beautifully.
Step 7: Top with Ganache
Spread your luscious ganache over the coconut-pecan layer generously. Don’t be shy here; every bite deserves some chocolaty goodness!
Step 8: Garnish if Desired
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or chocolate chips on top as garnish before moving on.
Step 9: Chill Before Serving
Finally, refrigerate your German Chocolate Poke Cake for at least two hours before serving. Chilling helps all those flavors meld together beautifully—and trust me, it’s worth waiting for!
And there you have it! A delightful German Chocolate Poke Cake that’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike! Happy baking!
Pro Tips for Making German Chocolate Poke Cake
When it comes to baking, a few simple tips can make all the difference in achieving that perfect dessert! Here are some pro tips to elevate your German Chocolate Poke Cake.
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Use quality chocolate cake mix: Opting for a premium chocolate cake mix will give you a richer flavor and moister texture, enhancing the overall taste of your poke cake.
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Poke holes generously: Make sure to poke holes in a grid pattern across the entire surface. This allows more of the sweetened condensed milk and caramel to soak into the cake, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
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Let it chill: Refrigerating the cake for at least two hours (or longer if you can resist!) allows the layers to meld beautifully, giving you that delightful contrast between textures and flavors.
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Toast your pecans: Toasting the pecans adds a lovely crunch and enhances their nutty flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
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Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding some whipped coconut cream or drizzling extra caramel over the top can take this dessert over the top!
How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake
Presenting your German Chocolate Poke Cake beautifully can elevate any gathering or celebration. Here are some ideas for serving this decadent treat.
Garnishes
- Shredded coconut: A sprinkle of extra shredded coconut on top adds a nice visual touch and reinforces that classic flavor.
- Chocolate shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate curls from a chocolate bar to add an elegant finishing touch.
- Fresh berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side not only adds color but also offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the poke cake, balancing out its sweetness.
- Fruit salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can provide a nice contrast, cutting through the richness while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
- Coffee or tea: Offering warm beverages like freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea complements dessert beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.
- Whipped coconut cream: For those who enjoy dairy-free options, serving this cake with whipped coconut cream is not only delicious but also aligns well with dietary preferences.
Enjoy creating and sharing this indulgent German Chocolate Poke Cake—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Make Ahead and Storage
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily prepare it in advance, making it perfect for gatherings or just to enjoy throughout the week!
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- For best flavor, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
Freezing
- To freeze, cut the cake into individual slices or keep it whole.
- Wrap each slice or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you prefer warm cake, heat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Avoid reheating the whole cake in the oven as it may dry out.
FAQs
If you have any lingering questions about this delectable dessert, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I make German Chocolate Poke Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making ahead. Just follow the storage instructions above to keep it fresh.
What makes German Chocolate Poke Cake different from regular chocolate cake?
German Chocolate Poke Cake incorporates sweetened condensed milk and caramel, making it extra moist and flavorful with a delicious coconut-pecan topping.
Can I substitute ingredients in German Chocolate Poke Cake?
Yes! You can use dairy-free options like coconut cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based butter if desired.
How long does German Chocolate Poke Cake last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this cake can last up to 5 days. It’s great for enjoying over several days!
Is German Chocolate Poke Cake suitable for potlucks?
Definitely! This easy recipe is sure to impress guests at any gathering. Its unique flavor and presentation make it a standout dish!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this German Chocolate Poke Cake as much as I do! It’s truly a special dessert that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. Whether it’s for a celebration or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me—happy baking!
German Chocolate Poke Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Description
Indulge in a slice of this delightful German Chocolate Poke Cake, a dessert that effortlessly combines rich chocolate flavor with luscious layers of caramel and a delightful coconut-pecan topping. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day. The moist cake, infused with sweetened condensed milk, offers an irresistible texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Designed for both novice and experienced bakers, this recipe requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this decadent treat!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the chocolate cake according to package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Bake until fluffy and cool for about 10 minutes.
- Poke holes all over the warm cake using a wooden spoon handle.
- Slowly pour sweetened condensed milk over the holes, allowing it to soak in.
- Drizzle caramel sauce evenly on top.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in coconut and pecans; spread this mixture over the cake.
- Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chocolate chips in a bowl; stir until smooth to create ganache.
- Spread ganache over the coconut-pecan layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
