Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this German Chocolate Poke Cake! It’s like a big, warm hug of rich chocolate flavors, layered with creamy coconut and crunchy pecans. Seriously, the combination of all these ingredients makes it a showstopper at any gathering. I remember the first time I made this cake for a family reunion; everyone went wild over it! My cousin even asked for the recipe right after the first bite. The way the sweetened condensed milk soaks into the cake creates this incredible moistness that you just can’t resist. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients for German Chocolate Poke Cake
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 box chocolate cake mix (your favorite brand works great!)
1 cup water (just tap water is perfect)
1/3 cup vegetable oil (for that moist texture)
3 large eggs (room temperature for better mixing)
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk (this is what makes it oh-so-decadent!)
1 cup coconut flakes (make sure they’re unsweetened if you prefer a less sweet cake)
1 cup chopped pecans (you can toast them for an extra crunch!)
1 cup whipped topping (for that dreamy finish on top)
How to Prepare German Chocolate Poke Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get our hands a little dirty and make this scrumptious cake! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that’ll impress everyone.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important so your cake bakes evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until everything is nice and smooth—no lumps allowed! I like to use a hand mixer for about 2 minutes, but you can definitely use a whisk if you prefer.
Next, pour that luscious batter into a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s spread evenly; this helps it bake perfectly!
Now, pop that dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Oh, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be amazing!
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time is crucial, so don’t skip it!
While it’s still warm, grab a fork and poke holes all over the cake. I usually make about 20-30 holes, but you can do as many as you want. The more holes, the more delicious filling!
Now, take that can of sweetened condensed milk and pour it over the cake, making sure to fill those holes. This step is what makes the cake so incredibly moist and rich!
In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut flakes and chopped pecans. This mixture is going to be the crowning glory of your cake!
Spread the coconut-pecan mixture evenly over the top of the cake. Don’t be shy—get it all on there!
Finally, top it off with a generous layer of whipped topping. I usually use a spatula to make it nice and smooth. It adds that creamy finish we all love.
Now, cover your cake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
And there you have it! Your German Chocolate Poke Cake is ready to be the star of the show. Just slice, serve, and watch those smiles light up the room!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to whip up this delicious German Chocolate Poke Cake, let me share some of my top tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
Ingredient Temperature: Trust me, using room temperature eggs and water makes a huge difference! It helps the batter mix more smoothly and results in a fluffier cake.
Don’t Rush the Cooling: After baking, let the cake cool for those 10 minutes in the pan. If you skip this step, it might crumble when you poke those holes, and nobody wants that!
Poking Holes: Be generous with the holes! The more holes you make, the more sweetened condensed milk can soak in, leading to a moist, flavorful cake. I like to use the handle of a wooden spoon if you want nice, big holes!
Chill Time: Patience is key! Allowing the cake to chill for at least 2 hours helps all those scrumptious flavors meld together. If you can wait longer, even better!
Top It Off: When spreading the whipped topping, you can use a piping bag for a fancy touch. Or just a spatula for a more rustic look, either way, it’ll be delicious!
Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cake batter or using dark chocolate cake mix. It enhances the flavor in such a delightful way!
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of the German Chocolate Poke Cake. Happy baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This German Chocolate Poke Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore making—and eating—this cake:
Quick Preparation: With just a box of cake mix and a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip this cake up in no time. Perfect for those unexpected cravings or last-minute gatherings!
Rich, Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Every bite is a harmonious blend of sweetness and texture!
Moist and Delicious: Thanks to the sweetened condensed milk soaking into the cake, you’ll enjoy a moist and tender slice every time. It’s the kind of cake that melts in your mouth!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This cake is always a hit at parties and family gatherings. I promise, you’ll be the star of the dessert table when you bring this beauty out!
Versatile Toppings: Feel free to get creative! You can customize the toppings or even add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence. The options are endless!
Once you make this cake, you’ll understand why it’s become a family favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for a slice of this delightful German Chocolate Poke Cake. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust accordingly!
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 6g
Enjoy every delicious bite, but remember to savor it! This cake is a treat, so it’s all about balance. Happy indulging!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this delicious German Chocolate Poke Cake? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with the answers to help you out.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While I love the classic chocolate cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors too. A dark chocolate cake mix adds a deeper richness, or even a vanilla mix for a lighter twist. Just keep in mind that the coconut and pecans will still shine through!
How long can I store the German Chocolate Poke Cake?
This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh and moist. If you’re like me and can’t resist, it might not last that long!
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Just make sure it’s completely cooled and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before you’re ready to dive back in!
What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can try using evaporated milk mixed with a bit of sugar. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still add moisture and sweetness to your cake. Another option is to use a homemade version, which is easy to whip up!
Do I have to refrigerate the cake?
Yes, it’s best to refrigerate the cake after you’ve added the toppings. This helps keep everything fresh and ensures those delicious flavors meld together. Plus, it’s super refreshing served chilled!
I hope these answers help you feel more confident in making your own German Chocolate Poke Cake. If you have any more questions, just drop a comment! I love hearing from you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your delicious German Chocolate Poke Cake fresh and tasty! Storing it properly is key to enjoying every last bite.
First off, make sure to cover the cake well with plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep it moist and prevents any fridge odors from sneaking in. You can also place it in an airtight container if you have one handy. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to 5 days—though I doubt it’ll last that long with how delicious it is!
If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), you can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. It’s like having a little piece of dessert heaven waiting for you!
Now, if you want to reheat it, I recommend doing so gently. You can pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just enough to warm it up without compromising that delicious whipped topping. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge—trust me, it’s super refreshing!
So, whether you’re savoring it chilled or giving it a quick warm-up, this cake will always be a treat! Enjoy every scrumptious bite!
Call to Action
Wow, I’m so excited for you to try this German Chocolate Poke Cake! Once you do, I’d love to hear all about it. Did you make any fun variations? Or maybe you have your own twist on the toppings? Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts! Your feedback means the world to me, and it helps others who are eager to dive into this delicious dessert.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to rate it! Your ratings help me know what you love and what you want to see more of. Plus, it’s a great way for others to find this scrumptious cake!
So, let’s get baking! I can’t wait to see your beautiful creations and hear all about your experience with this delightful cake. Happy baking, my friends!
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