German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of German chocolate cake with sweet condensed milk, caramel sauce, and a generous topping of whipped cream, pecans, and shredded coconut. The result is a moist, flavorful cake with layers of gooey goodness in every bite. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress family and guests alike.

Ingredients

1 box German chocolate cake mix
Ingredients required on cake mix box (eggs, oil, water)
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 jar caramel sauce
1 container whipped topping
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Directions

Prepare and bake the German chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the package.
Once the cake is baked, let it cool for 10 minutes.
Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it fills all the holes.
Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the cake.
Spread whipped topping over the entire cake.
Sprinkle chopped pecans and shredded coconut evenly on top.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the whipped topping for extra chocolatey goodness.
Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and coconut for a nut-free version of the cake.
Different Cake Mix: While German chocolate cake is traditional, you can try other cake mixes like chocolate or vanilla for a different flavor profile.
Caramel Twist: For an extra caramel flavor, you can add a layer of caramel bits or toffee bits in the whipped topping.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This cake is best served chilled, but if you prefer a warm dessert, you can microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.

10 FAQs

Can I use a homemade German chocolate cake recipe instead of a box mix?
Yes, you can use a homemade cake recipe, but make sure it’s a German chocolate cake recipe that’s designed to have a moist texture for the poke cake effect.
Can I make this cake without caramel sauce?
Yes, you can skip the caramel sauce, but it will add a delightful sweetness to the cake. You can substitute with chocolate syrup or even a fudge sauce for an alternative flavor.
Can I use light condensed milk?
Yes, light or fat-free condensed milk can be used, but it will result in a slightly less rich and creamy cake.
How do I poke the holes in the cake?
Use the end of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke even, spaced-out holes throughout the cake. The holes should be deep enough to fill with the condensed milk and caramel sauce.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days. It will actually taste even better as the flavors meld together.
What other toppings can I use?
You can use other toppings like chocolate shavings, crushed toffee bars, or even a drizzle of hot fudge sauce for added texture and flavor.
Can I freeze this cake?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the whipped topping, you can freeze the cake without the topping for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before adding the whipped topping and other toppings.
Can I use a different kind of nuts?
Yes, you can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans if you prefer. However, pecans are traditional for German chocolate cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free German chocolate cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
How do I serve this cake?
This cake is best served cold, directly from the refrigerator. You can serve it as-is or with an additional scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious. With layers of sweet condensed milk, caramel sauce, and whipped topping, this cake offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a casual family dessert, this cake is sure to become a favorite. The combination of chocolate, caramel, and coconut will leave everyone craving more.