German Chocolate Poke Cake
German Chocolate Poke Cake is a luscious layered dessert that combines moist chocolate cake with a creamy coconut-pecan frosting and a sweetened condensed milk soak. Using a simple poke cake technique, this recipe infuses every bite with rich flavors and delightful textures, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
- Author: Sarah
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free cake mix)
Cake Base
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade equivalent)
- Ingredients called for on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
Soak
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Coconut-Pecan Frosting
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups shredded or flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Prepare and Bake the Cake: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions and pour the batter into your preferred baking dish. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before the next step.
- Poke the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. These holes allow the sweetened condensed milk to soak deep inside the cake.
- Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top, making sure it seeps into every hole to create a moist and rich texture.
- Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting: In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, coconut flakes, and chopped pecans. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened and bubbling, forming a custardy frosting.
- Spread and Cool: Pour the frosting evenly over the soaked cake, spreading it to cover completely. Let the cake cool entirely so the flavors meld perfectly before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for better batter mixing and texture.
- Don’t skip the poking step; it’s essential for moistness.
- Stir frosting constantly to prevent scorching and ensure smoothness.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving to intensify flavors.
- Optional: Sprinkle extra pecans or toasted coconut flakes on top for added crunch and presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: German Chocolate Poke Cake, chocolate cake, coconut pecan frosting, poke cake, easy dessert, gluten free option