German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this decadent German Chocolate Poke Cake! Imagine a moist chocolate cake, infused with every bit of sweet, nutty goodness thanks to luscious coconut, crunchy pecans, and a heavenly layer of chocolate frosting. Each bite is outrageously gooey and rich, making this treat absolutely irresistible for dessert lovers. Whether you’re serving it to guests or spoiling yourself after a long day, this cake always impresses and satisfies. If you’re searching for a showstopper dessert that feels both nostalgic and delightfully modern, German Chocolate Poke Cake is the one you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a simple list of pantry staples can transform into such a spectacular treat! Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen for its part in creating the deep flavor, irresistible texture, and gorgeous look of the German Chocolate Poke Cake.
- All-purpose flour: The essential base of your cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and helps lock in moisture.
- Baking powder: Lifts the cake for a perfectly airy bite.
- Baking soda: Works magic with the cocoa for rise and lightness.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings depth to the chocolate flavor.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The key to that rich, true chocolate profile in every forkful.
- Whole milk: Makes the cake exceptionally moist and adds richness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb soft and tender even after chilling.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure.
- Vanilla extract: Adds beautiful warmth and enhances chocolaty notes.
- Boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa and makes the batter smooth and pourable.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Delivers that signature, chewy texture and tropical flair.
- Chopped pecans: Introduce an irresistible crunch and nutty aroma.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Soaks into the poked cake for that iconic, ultra-moist bite.
- Chocolate frosting: Creamy, chocolatey, and the perfect topper for this indulgent dessert.
How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), making sure you’re a few steps ahead by greasing and flouring a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will ensure the cake slides out easily later and stays beautifully intact.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Make sure everything is evenly combined, as this makes for a balanced flavor and perfect texture in each slice.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Combine
Pour in the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until a smooth, unified batter forms.
Step 4: Stir in Boiling Water
Carefully stir in your boiling water. Don’t worry if your batter looks thin—that’s exactly how it should be! This step is what gives German Chocolate Poke Cake its signature moistness and lightness.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Slide it into the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The anticipation is so worth it!
Step 6: Cool and Poke
Let the freshly baked cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke generous holes all over the top—this is the fun part that makes this a true poke cake!
Step 7: Add the Coconut-Pecan Filling
Mix together the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans in a small bowl. Pour this delicious mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep down into those inviting holes for maximum gooeyness.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Let the cake cool completely. Once cooled, spread a layer of chocolate frosting all over the top. It’s the finishing touch that ties it all together and makes each bite next-level good.
How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake
Garnishes
Pile on a little extra shredded coconut and a sprinkling of toasted pecan pieces over the top before serving. For the ultimate flourish, add some delicate chocolate shavings or even a drizzle of caramel sauce—your guests won’t be able to resist!
Side Dishes
German Chocolate Poke Cake is wonderfully rich, so pair it with something light and fresh, like a bowl of mixed berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk is a classic duo, too!
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the cake into neat squares and nestle them into cupcake liners for a party-ready look. Alternatively, layer cubes of cake into clear parfait glasses with whipped cream and fruit for a jaw-dropping trifle. This cake transforms beautifully for birthdays or potlucks!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftover German Chocolate Poke Cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and moist for up to 5 days without losing its delightful texture.
Freezing
If you’d like to stash some away for later, freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic and foil, or store the whole cake in a freezer-safe container. It will keep deliciously for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
While German Chocolate Poke Cake tastes divine chilled, you can bring out extra gooeyness by microwaving a slice for about 10-15 seconds. Serve it slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert moment.
FAQs
Can I use a boxed cake mix for German Chocolate Poke Cake?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a chocolate or German chocolate boxed mix works perfectly for this recipe. Simply follow the cake mix directions and continue with the poking, filling, and frosting.
Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, sweetened condensed milk is key for the super-moist, slightly caramelized holes that define poke cakes. It creates that decadent texture that makes this dessert unforgettable.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
You can omit the pecans entirely or swap them for toasted sunflower seeds or extra coconut if you’d like some crunch without the nuts. The cake will still be deliciously satisfying!
How far in advance can I make German Chocolate Poke Cake?
This cake can easily be made a day or two ahead. Some people find it tastes even better on the second day as the filling fully soaks in, making it a perfect make-ahead option for gatherings.
Can I use homemade chocolate frosting instead of store-bought?
Of course! A homemade chocolate buttercream or ganache will take your German Chocolate Poke Cake to heavenly heights. Just make sure it’s spreadable and cool before topping the cake.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about sharing a pan of German Chocolate Poke Cake—every slice is pure, chocolatey celebration. If you’re craving a dessert that’s equal parts nostalgic and show-stopping, this recipe is calling your name. Give it a try and let the joy of each forkful bring everyone together!
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German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of German Chocolate Poke Cake. This rich and moist chocolate cake is filled with a luscious coconut and pecan filling, making every bite a taste of heaven. Topped with a creamy chocolate frosting, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Toppings:
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chocolate frosting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease/flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat for 2 minutes.
- Integrate Boiling Water: Stir in boiling water until smooth. Pour into pan.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes; cool for 10 minutes in pan.
- Poke Holes: Use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes on the cake’s surface.
- Prepare Filling: Combine condensed milk, coconut, and pecans. Pour over cake, filling the holes.
- Frost: Once cooled, spread chocolate frosting evenly over the cake.
- Serve: Serve room temperature or chilled.
Notes
- This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking.
- For extra richness, consider adding a layer of caramel sauce before the frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: German Chocolate Poke Cake, Chocolate Cake, Coconut Pecan Cake, Dessert Recipe
