German Chocolate Poke Cake

Chocolate cake lovers, rejoice—this is not your average chocolate cake! Meet the German Chocolate Poke Cake With Ultimate Flavor, a rich, gooey, and utterly satisfying dessert that marries two major fan favorites: the luscious textures of a poke cake and the classic taste of a German chocolate cake. This recipe is designed to give you that famous sweet, nutty coconut topping and a moist chocolate crumb in every single forkful.

If you’ve never heard of a poke cake, you might be thinking, “Why would I want holes in my cake?” The answer is simple: because each of those holes soaks up a layer of sweet, flavorful sauce that makes every bite extra moist and flavorful. With this approach, you’re guaranteed a chocolatey dream from top to bottom, further enhanced by the coconut-pecan topping that German chocolate cake is so well known for.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of making a perfect German Chocolate Poke Cake. We’ll delve into the specifics of each ingredient, walk through detailed instructions, and even discuss ways to store and serve this dessert masterpiece. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet treat at the end of a long day, this cake is designed to impress everyone who tries it.

In today’s world of busy schedules, maximizing flavor without maxing out your time in the kitchen is an essential skill. Luckily, this recipe uses everyday pantry ingredients and a few shortcuts—yet retains a sophisticated homemade feel that will leave everyone asking you for the recipe. So let’s dive in and discover what makes this special dessert so extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you hear the phrase “German Chocolate Poke Cake,” you might already be imagining something incredibly indulgent—and you’d be absolutely right. However, there’s so much more to love about this recipe than just its decadence. Here are some top reasons you’ll want to bake it again and again:

1. Moisture Galore
   Poke cakes are famous for being especially moist, thanks to the holes that allow liquid—like sweetened condensed milk or a chocolate sauce—to seep deeply into the crumb. This ensures every bite of cake is loaded with flavor.
2. Classic German Chocolate Taste
   German chocolate cake is renowned for its coconut-pecan frosting. We bring that hallmark topping to the next level by letting it seep into the cake itself, creating a new spin that’s reminiscent of the original but incredibly easy to assemble.
3. Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Results
   You don’t need fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. Most can be found in any grocery store, possibly already in your pantry. This means you can impress guests or delight your family without breaking the bank or going on a culinary scavenger hunt.
4. Make-Ahead and Party-Friendly
   Because poke cakes taste even better after they’ve had time to rest (allowing the flavors to meld), they’re ideal for events and gatherings. You can prepare it the day before you plan to serve it, leaving you free to focus on the rest of your party preparations.
5. Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser
   Chocolate? Check. Gooey coconut-pecan topping? Check. A cake that stays moist for days? Check again. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or potluck dinner, this dessert hits all the right notes for any crowd that loves sweets.
6. Easily Adaptable
   Watching your sugar intake or want a different flavor dimension? This recipe can be tweaked using sugar-free condensed milk or adding more nuts to the topping. You can also opt for dark cocoa powder or substitute coconut sugar for part of the sweetness, making this versatile for various dietary preferences.

From the intense chocolate flavor to the beloved coconut-pecan accent, this recipe ensures you’ll never look at traditional chocolate cake the same way again.

Ingredients

Before you get started, it’s helpful to have a complete overview of everything you’ll need. Below is a detailed list broken down by component:

Cake Base

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups)
  This forms the foundation of your cake. All-purpose flour provides a stable structure that can hold the ample moisture from the poke filling.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (¾ cup)
  Look for high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder to deliver that signature chocolate flavor. You can opt for dark or Dutch-processed cocoa if you want a deeper, richer taste.
• Granulated Sugar (1½ cups)
  Sugar not only sweetens the cake but also helps with texture and moisture retention.
• Baking Soda (1½ teaspoons)
  This leavening agent helps the cake rise, ensuring a soft, tender crumb.
• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon)
  Collaborates with baking soda to give your cake the right amount of lift.
• Salt (½ teaspoon)
  Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Buttermilk (1 cup)
  Buttermilk adds tanginess and tenderness. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by combining 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Eggs (2, large)
  Provide structure, richness, and moisture. Room-temperature eggs typically incorporate more evenly into the batter.
• Vegetable Oil (½ cup)
  Keeps the cake extra moist. You could swap for melted butter or coconut oil if preferred, but vegetable oil typically yields a fluffier crumb.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
  Rounds out the flavor of the cake base.

Poke Filling

• Sweetened Condensed Milk (14-ounce can)
  The star ingredient in many poke cakes, sweetened condensed milk seeps into the cake and gives it that gooey, sweet “wow” factor.
• Chocolate Sauce or Chocolate Fudge Topping (½ cup, optional)
  If you want to double down on the chocolate flavor, drizzle half a cup of your favorite chocolate sauce along with the condensed milk.

Coconut-Pecan Topping (German Chocolate Topping)

• Evaporated Milk (1 cup)
  Distinct from sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk is less sweet but helps create a rich, creamy topping.
• Egg Yolks (3 large)
  Essential for thickening the topping. Be sure to whisk them vigorously with evaporated milk before heating.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup or 1 stick)
  Adds richness and that indulgent, buttery flavor you expect from German chocolate frosting.
• Brown Sugar (1 cup)
  Provides the sweet and caramel-like note that pairs beautifully with coconut and pecans.
• Shredded Sweetened Coconut (1½ cups)
  The coconut is a defining feature of a classic German chocolate topping. Its chewy texture and sweet flavor contrast wonderfully with the chocolatey base.
• Chopped Pecans (1 cup)
  Roasted pecans add a nutty crunch that complements the softness of the cake.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
  Adds a warm, fragrant note that brings the topping to life.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon)
  Enhances the other flavors and keeps the frosting from tasting overwhelmingly sweet.

Optional Garnishes

• Chocolate Chips or Shavings
  Melt them on top or sprinkle for a finishing chocolate flourish.
• Extra Toasted Pecans
  Toasting additional pecans and sprinkling them over the cake can add extra crunch and visual appeal.
• Maraschino Cherries
  A bright red pop of color that also offers a fresh burst of flavor, if you fancy it.

By gathering these ingredients ahead of time, you’ll streamline your baking process and ensure each step goes smoothly. Make sure everything is measured accurately, and if possible, use a kitchen scale for the flour to avoid overpacking the measuring cup.

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake

In this section, we’ll go through the recipe step by step. Follow these instructions carefully to nail the distinct layers of flavor and texture that make this dessert a beloved favorite.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is nice and hot by the time you finish mixing the batter.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first helps distribute the leaveners evenly.
3. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Once combined, create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can produce a dense crumb.
4. Optional Add-In
   If you prefer an extra chocolate boost, fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips before transferring the batter to the baking pan.
5. Pour Batter into the Pan
   Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour your batter into the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
6. Bake
   Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain a moist crumb.

Step 2: Poke and Fill

1. Let the Cake Cool Slightly
   Allow the cake to rest for about 10 minutes. It should still be warm when poking holes, but not so hot that it breaks apart.
2. Poke the Cake
   Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes about 1 inch apart all across the surface. Make sure you don’t go too close to the edges, and do your best to keep the holes somewhat evenly spaced.
3. Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk
   Slowly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it seep down into the holes. Use a spatula to guide the milk if needed, ensuring each hole is filled. For extra richness, drizzle the optional chocolate sauce at this stage, too.
4. Cool Completely
   Let the cake come to room temperature. If you want to speed up the cooling process, you can place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes while you prepare the coconut-pecan topping.

Step 3: Make the Coconut-Pecan Topping

1. Combine Evaporated Milk and Egg Yolks
   In a medium saucepan off the heat, whisk the evaporated milk and egg yolks until thoroughly mixed.
2. Add Butter and Sugar
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and add the butter and brown sugar. Stir continuously to prevent scorching. The mixture will gradually thicken as the butter melts and sugar dissolves. This can take around 7–9 minutes.
3. Add Coconut and Pecans
   Once the mixture has thickened enough to coat the back of your spoon, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded sweetened coconut, chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Cool the Topping
   Let the topping cool until it is spreadable but not so stiff that it solidifies. You want it still warm enough to flow into the holes a bit and cling to the cake’s surface.

Step 4: Assemble and Decorate

1. Spread Topping Over the Cake
   Carefully spoon or pour the coconut-pecan mixture over the cake, making sure to cover it thoroughly. Gently push the topping into the holes if you desire extra flavor infusion.
2. Final Touches
   For an elegant finishing touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings, extra chopped pecans, or toasted coconut flakes on top.
3. Let the Cake Set
   Allow the cake to rest for at least 1 hour so the topping can cool completely and the flavors meld. For best results, chill it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

Serving and Storage Tips

The beauty of a German Chocolate Poke Cake is that it almost always tastes better the next day. Here’s how to serve and store it for the best results:

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve at Cool or Room Temperature
   While some prefer their cake slightly chilled, others enjoy it at room temperature to appreciate the full bouquet of flavors. Try both ways and see which you prefer.
2. Pair with Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla bean or coconut ice cream can complement the cake’s flavors nicely. The cool, creamy texture pairs well with the rich, gooey topping.
3. Whipped Cream Topping
   If you want an additional layer of indulgence, add a dollop of homemade whipped cream to each slice. You can also pipe whipped cream rosettes around the edges of the cake for a beautiful presentation.
4. Fresh Fruit
   While not traditional for a German chocolate cake, strawberries or raspberries can add a refreshing contrast to the cake’s rich sweetness.

Storing Leftovers

1. Refrigeration
   Due to the dairy components in the topping (egg yolks and butter), this cake should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap. It will last well for about 3–4 days.
2. Freezing
   If you want to keep the cake for longer, slice it into individual portions and freeze them. Place slices in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy.
3. Avoid Drastic Temperature Changes
   The topping’s texture can suffer if you move the cake from extreme cold to hot conditions. If you plan to serve it, let it sit at room temperature for around 20–30 minutes for the best flavor and consistency.

To ensure safe storage and handling of your cake, refer to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service for expert tips on storing and managing dairy-based desserts safely.

Helpful Notes

Even seasoned bakers can benefit from a few extra tips to ensure top-notch results. Here are some pointers and variations you might find helpful:

1. Room-Temperature Eggs
   Cold eggs can create lumps in the batter and prevent it from mixing smoothly. Let them sit on the counter for about 30 minutes before using.
2. Prevent Overbaking
   Overbaked chocolate cake can turn dry, which is the last thing you want for a poke cake. Keep a close eye on your cake at the 25-minute mark. The goal is a toothpick test with just a few moist crumbs clinging.
3. Make the Topping First (If Desired)
   If you’re short on time, you can prep the coconut-pecan topping first and let it cool while the cake bakes. Just be careful not to let it cool so much that it becomes too stiff to spread.
4. Toast the Pecans
   Toasting the pecans before adding them to the topping can give the nuts a deeper flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for about 5–7 minutes.
5. Chocolate Variations
   For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding instant espresso powder (about 1 teaspoon) to the cake batter. Espresso intensifies chocolate notes without making the cake taste like coffee.
6. Alternate Fillings
   While sweetened condensed milk is classic for a poke cake, you could explore alternatives such as salted caramel sauce, coconut cream, or a mixture of sweetened condensed milk and chocolate liqueur (for an adult twist).
7. Watch Your Sugar
   German chocolate desserts are inherently sweet. If you want to reduce the sugar, try using sugar-free condensed milk or reducing the brown sugar in the topping from 1 cup to ¾ cup. Taste as you go to maintain the flavor balance.
8. Presentation Upgrades
   If you want to make your poke cake stand out at a party or special event, garnish with decorative piping along the edges or add a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top.
9. Food Safety
   The topping uses raw egg yolks, but they will be cooked on the stovetop. Make sure you bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to cook the yolks thoroughly and avoid any food safety issues.

By applying these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a showstopper dessert that dazzles friends, family, and, most importantly, your own taste buds.

Conclusion

There’s no question that this German Chocolate Poke Cake With Ultimate Flavor is a crowd-pleaser—and an absolute must-try for chocolate lovers everywhere. From the moist chocolate base infused with sweetened condensed milk to the classic coconut-pecan topping that oozes down into every hole, it’s a recipe that brings old-fashioned comfort and modern convenience together in the same dish.

This dessert is more than just a cake; it’s a memorable experience of textures and tastes. The gooey topping is reminiscent of classic German chocolate cake, while the poke cake element ensures maximum tenderness. Plus, the ability to make it ahead of time makes this recipe ideal for special occasions, potlucks, or even just a weeknight treat.

Whether you serve it chilled or at room temperature, with ice cream or whipped cream, or even with a handful of fresh berries, every slice will be met with a chorus of “oohs” and “aahs.” And who can blame them? The flavors combine seamlessly to deliver an indulgent bite every single time.

Beyond the cake’s impressive taste and texture, it’s the ease of preparation that truly sets it apart. You can whip up the batter using standard pantry staples, poke in some holes, pour in your filling, and craft a coconut-pecan topping that tastes homemade because it is. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making this dessert on repeat for birthdays, anniversaries, or any reason that calls for a celebration.

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German Chocolate Poke Cake

Rebecca Blumer

Discover the ultimate German Chocolate Poke Cake recipe with moist layers, gooey coconut-pecan topping, and rich chocolate flavor. Perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 People

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

Cake Base

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• ¾ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1½ cups Granulated Sugar
• 1½ tbsp Baking Soda
• 1 tbsp Baking Powder
• ½ tbsp Salt
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 2 large Eggs
• ½ cup Vegetable Oil
• 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract

Poke Filling

• 14 ounce can Sweetened Condensed Milk
• ½ cup Chocolate Sauce or Chocolate Fudge Topping optional

Coconut-Pecan Topping (German Chocolate Topping)

• 1 cup Evaporated Milk
• 3 large Egg Yolks
• ½ cup or 1 stick Unsalted Butter
• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 1½ cups Shredded Sweetened Coconut
• 1 cup Chopped Pecans
• 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
• ¼ tbsp Salt

Optional Garnishes

• Chocolate Chips or Shavings
• Extra Toasted Pecans
• Maraschino Cherries

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat Your Oven:

  Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is nice and hot by the time you finish mixing the batter.
• Combine Dry Ingredients:

  In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first helps distribute the leaveners evenly.
• Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:

  In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Once combined, create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can produce a dense crumb.
• Optional Add-In:

  If you prefer an extra chocolate boost, fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips before transferring the batter to the baking pan.
• Pour Batter into the Pan:

  Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour your batter into the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
• Bake:

  Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain a moist crumb.

Step 2: Poke and Fill

• Let the Cake Cool Slightly:

  Allow the cake to rest for about 10 minutes. It should still be warm when poking holes, but not so hot that it breaks apart.
• Poke the Cake:

  Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes about 1 inch apart all across the surface. Make sure you don’t go too close to the edges, and do your best to keep the holes somewhat evenly spaced.
• Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk:

  Slowly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it seep down into the holes. Use a spatula to guide the milk if needed, ensuring each hole is filled. For extra richness, drizzle the optional chocolate sauce at this stage, too.
• Cool Completely:

  Let the cake come to room temperature. If you want to speed up the cooling process, you can place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes while you prepare the coconut-pecan topping.

Step 3: Make the Coconut-Pecan Topping

• Combine Evaporated Milk and Egg Yolks:

  In a medium saucepan off the heat, whisk the evaporated milk and egg yolks until thoroughly mixed.
• Add Butter and Sugar:

  Place the saucepan over medium heat and add the butter and brown sugar. Stir continuously to prevent scorching. The mixture will gradually thicken as the butter melts and sugar dissolves. This can take around 7–9 minutes.
• Add Coconut and Pecans:

  Once the mixture has thickened enough to coat the back of your spoon, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded sweetened coconut, chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
• Cool the Topping:

  Let the topping cool until it is spreadable but not so stiff that it solidifies. You want it still warm enough to flow into the holes a bit and cling to the cake’s surface.

Step 4: Assemble and Decorate

• Spread Topping Over the Cake:

  Carefully spoon or pour the coconut-pecan mixture over the cake, making sure to cover it thoroughly. Gently push the topping into the holes if you desire extra flavor infusion.
• Final Touches:

  For an elegant finishing touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings, extra chopped pecans, or toasted coconut flakes on top.
• Let the Cake Set:

  Allow the cake to rest for at least 1 hour so the topping can cool completely and the flavors meld. For best results, chill it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 280mg
• Carbohydrates: 57g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 42g
• Protein: 6g

 

Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

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FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions that pop up when baking and serving a German Chocolate Poke Cake. If you have any additional queries or want to customize the recipe further, feel free to experiment and make it your own!

With these FAQs answered, you’re all set to embark on your German Chocolate Poke Cake journey. From basic ingredient substitutions to pro tips on achieving that perfect topping consistency, every detail comes together to help you bake and serve a dessert that shines. This recipe combines the best parts of classic German chocolate cake with the fun and flavorful aspects of poke cake, resulting in a sweet treat that’s both nostalgic and cutting-edge at the same time.

Happy baking, and enjoy every decadent bite!