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The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake


  • Author: Ellie
  • Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A moist and decadent chocolate cake infused with a luscious caramel and milk filling, topped with fluffy whipped cream, toasted coconut, and crunchy pecans. This poke cake combines the rich flavors of classic German chocolate dessert with an easy-to-make, no-fuss approach—perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix

  • 1 cup milk

  • ½ cup vegetable oil

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 cup evaporated milk

  • 1 cup caramel sauce

For the Topping:

  • 1½ cups shredded coconut

  • 1 cup chopped pecans

  • 1½ cups whipped topping

  • ½ cup chocolate syrup


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • In a large bowl, combine cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.

  • Pour batter into prepared dish and bake according to package instructions (usually 30–35 minutes).

  • Remove cake and, while slightly warm, poke holes all over using the back of a wooden spoon.

  • Mix sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and caramel sauce in a bowl. Pour evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.

  • Let cake cool completely.

  • Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake.

  • Sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped pecans over the whipped topping.

  • Drizzle chocolate syrup on top for extra decadence.

 

  • Slice and serve.

Notes

Moisture Matters: Cool cake slightly before adding filling to prevent sogginess.

Chilling Enhances Flavor: Refrigerate for several hours or overnight for richer taste.

Customizable Toppings: Try white chocolate, espresso syrup, or extra caramel drizzle.

Dietary Adjustments: Can be adapted to dairy-free, gluten-free, or nut-free diets with alternatives.

Storage: Keep refrigerated up to 5 days; freeze individual slices for convenience.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking, Poking
  • Cuisine: American, German-inspired

Keywords: German chocolate, poke cake, chocolate cake, caramel, coconut, pecans, easy dessert