German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines a moist chocolate cake with sweetened condensed milk, gooey caramel, and a luscious coconut-pecan topping. Perfect for celebrations or any time you crave a decadent treat, this cake features layers of flavor and a wonderful texture contrast with its creamy, nutty topping.
- Author: Bella
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade equivalent)
For the Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Topping
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- Extra coconut and pecans for garnish
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven as directed on the chocolate cake mix box. Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions and pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake as directed until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke the Cake: Remove the baked cake from the oven and, while still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Caramel: Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Next, drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cake.
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is warmed through and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the warm coconut-pecan topping evenly over the caramel layer on the cake. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top to create a beautiful, glossy finish. Garnish with extra shredded coconut and chopped pecans for added texture and visual appeal.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours or until fully set. This allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to thicken. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute homemade chocolate cake if preferred by using your favorite recipe.
- For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of caramel or omit the heavy cream.
- Make sure to poke the cake while it is still warm to help the condensed milk and caramel penetrate thoroughly.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel before adding the coconut topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: German Chocolate Cake, Poke Cake, Chocolate Dessert, Coconut Pecan Cake, Layered Cake, Easy Dessert