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German Chocolate Poke Cake

German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, ultra-moist chocolate dessert inspired by the classic German chocolate cake. A soft chocolate cake is baked, poked with holes, and filled with sweetened condensed milk and caramel so the flavor soaks into every bite. It’s then topped with a buttery coconut pecan topping that adds sweetness and crunch. This easy dessert is perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings, and it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Chocolate Cake
  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup milk or water
Poke Cake Filling
  • 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • ¾ cup caramel sauce
Coconut Pecan Topping
  • ½ cup butter
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • ¾ cup chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • whisk or electric mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • wooden spoon or fork (for poking holes)
  • medium saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Bake the Cake
  1. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions using eggs, oil, and milk or water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake according to package directions until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Poke Holes
  1. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, poke holes evenly across the entire cake.
Add the Filling
  1. In a bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Slowly pour the mixture over the cake so it fills the holes and spreads across the surface.
Make the Coconut Pecan Topping
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and evaporated milk and cook while stirring until slightly thickened. Stir in shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
Top the Cake
  1. Spread the coconut pecan topping evenly over the cake.
Chill Before Serving
  1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before slicing. For best flavor and texture, chill overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcal

Notes

  • For deeper flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the topping.
  • Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the filling so it absorbs evenly.
  • This cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors fully develop.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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