Introduction
Who doesn’t love a rich and gooey chocolate dessert? If you’re a fan of moist cakes with layers of flavor, then this German Chocolate Poke Cake is for you! Imagine a soft chocolate cake soaked in caramel and sweetened condensed milk, layered with a creamy coconut-pecan filling, and topped with silky chocolate ganache. Sounds heavenly, right?
Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds!
Ingredients Needed
Before starting, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, like eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Extra shredded coconut or chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Baking the Cake
Preheat the oven according to the cake mix instructions. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box. Pour it into the prepared pan and bake as instructed. Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Poking and Filling
Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes evenly across the warm cake. Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce over the cake, allowing them to seep into the holes. Spread gently with a spatula to ensure even coverage.
3. Making the Coconut-Pecan Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8–10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the mixture cool slightly, then spread evenly over the cake.
4. Preparing the Chocolate Ganache
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling. Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and pour the hot cream over them. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Drizzle the ganache over the cake, spreading slightly if desired.
5. Chilling and Serving
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with whipped cream, extra coconut, or pecans if desired.
Tips for the Best German Chocolate Poke Cake
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smoother ganache.
- Make it a day ahead for even better flavor infusion.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- For a deeper caramel flavor, use homemade caramel sauce.
- If you love texture, add more pecans and coconut for extra crunch!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade chocolate cake, go for it. Just ensure it’s a moist cake so it absorbs the fillings well.
3. How long does this cake last?
Stored in the refrigerator, this cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover it well.
4. Can I freeze German Chocolate Poke Cake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
5. Can I make this cake without pecans?
Of course! If you’re allergic to nuts or just don’t like them, feel free to leave them out.
Final Thoughts
If you love rich, indulgent, and easy-to-make desserts, this German Chocolate Poke Cake is a must-try. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake won’t disappoint. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!
Enjoy your baking!
