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German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 52 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12-15 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: German-American

Description

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring a rich chocolate cake base filled with a luscious coconut-pecan filling and topped with creamy chocolate frosting. The unique poke technique allows the filling to seep deep into the cake, creating a decadent, layered treat perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
  • Ingredients required by the cake mix (typically water, oil, and eggs)

For the Filling:

  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting:

  • 1 can (16 oz) chocolate frosting


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cake.
  2. Prepare Pan: Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
  3. Mix Cake Batter: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, mixing in the required water, oil, and eggs.
  4. Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to firm up before adding the filling.
  6. Prepare Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is well combined.
  7. Add Coconut and Pecans: Stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, mixing thoroughly.
  8. Thicken Filling: Cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.
  9. Poke Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake about 1 inch apart to allow the filling to soak in.
  10. Pour Filling: Pour the warm coconut-pecan filling evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
  11. Chill Cake: Allow the cake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
  12. Frost Cake: Once chilled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
  13. Serve: Slice and serve the cake chilled for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the cake is slightly cooled before poking holes to prevent it from crumbling.
  • For added flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding to the filling.
  • Refrigerating the cake after adding the filling enhances the texture and flavor combination.
  • The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Substitute the chocolate frosting with homemade frosting if preferred for a fresher taste.