If you’re craving a decadent dessert that’s rich, moist, and bursting with classic flavor, this German Chocolate Poke Cake is the ultimate treat. Combining the ease of a boxed cake mix with a luscious homemade caramel-coconut topping, this indulgent dessert is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings. Each bite is packed with chocolatey goodness and creamy, gooey filling that soaks into every inch of the cake.
Advertisements
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (includes chilling)
Yields: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Ultra-moist and flavorful: The sweetened condensed milk and caramel soak deep into the cake for unbeatable texture.
-
Simple to make: Starts with a boxed mix and requires no advanced baking skills.
-
Crowd-pleaser: A guaranteed hit at potlucks, holidays, or birthday parties.
-
Customizable: Add extra toppings or use different nuts to make it your own.
-
Make-ahead friendly: Chill it overnight and enjoy the next day—it tastes even better!
Ingredients Breakdown
-
German chocolate cake mix: A convenient base that delivers rich chocolate flavor.
-
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds moisture and sweetness, seeping into the poke holes.
-
Caramel sauce: Enhances richness and gives a sticky, sweet finish.
-
Pecans and shredded coconut: Key to the traditional German chocolate flavor; you can substitute walnuts or omit if preferred.
-
Powdered sugar and butter: Make a creamy frosting that holds everything together.
-
Milk: Adjusts frosting consistency.
Tips and Tricks
-
Use a squeeze bottle to control pouring the filling into the poke holes.
-
For best flavor, make a day ahead and chill overnight.
-
Toast the coconut or pecans for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
-
If frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Variations and Customizations
-
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free German chocolate cake mix.
-
Nut-free option: Omit pecans or replace with sunflower seeds or more coconut.
-
Extra chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate or add chocolate chips to the frosting.
-
Low-sugar swap: Use sugar-free caramel and reduced-sugar cake mix and condensed milk alternatives.
Pairing Suggestions
-
Drinks: Serve with hot coffee, a latte, or a glass of cold milk.
-
Sides: Pair with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
-
Meals: Makes a great dessert after a hearty meal like roast beef or barbecue.
Storage Instructions
-
Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
-
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
-
Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature. No reheating needed.
Popular Questions
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes! Homemade caramel adds even more depth of flavor. Just make sure it’s pourable when adding to the cake.
Advertisements
Do I have to poke holes while the cake is warm?
Yes, poking while warm helps the filling absorb better into the cake layers.
Advertisements