German Chocolate Poke Cake

A Rich, Gooey, Chocolatey Dream!

If you’re a chocolate lover (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), this German Chocolate Poke Cake is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a soft, decadent chocolate cake infused with gooey caramel and sweetened condensed milk, making it impossibly moist and flavorful. Then, it’s topped with a thick, buttery coconut-pecan frosting, drizzled with silky melted chocolate, and finished with toasted pecans and shredded coconut for that signature crunch.

The best part? It’s shockingly easy to make. The “poke” technique is pure magic it lets all that sweet, sticky goodness seep deep into the cake, creating an ultra-moist texture in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because you’re craving something decadent, this cake is guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Super moist and rich – The sweetened condensed milk and caramel soak into the cake, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Perfect balance of textures – Soft chocolate cake, gooey filling, crunchy pecans, and chewy coconut—it’s a dream combo!
• Easy to make – You don’t need to be a professional baker to pull this off. Simple ingredients, simple steps, big results.
• Better than bakery cake – Seriously, once you make this, store-bought German chocolate cake just won’t compare.
• Make-ahead friendly – It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• Chocolate cake base – You can use a boxed mix for convenience or make a homemade chocolate cake for an extra-special touch.
• Sweetened condensed milk – Soaks into the cake, making it ultra-moist and slightly caramelized.
• Caramel sauce – Adds that rich, buttery sweetness that pairs perfectly with chocolate.

For the Topping:

• Coconut-pecan frosting – A classic German chocolate cake must-have! It’s a mix of butter, brown sugar, evaporated milk, shredded coconut, and toasted pecans for that perfect nutty-sweet finish.
• Chocolate drizzle – Because more chocolate = more happiness.
• Toasted pecans & coconut – Sprinkled on top for extra texture and flavor.

👉 Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below!

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Start by preparing a 9×13-inch chocolate cake whether from a mix or homemade, both work great! Bake it according to the instructions and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. You want it to be warm, but not piping hot.

Step 2: Poke the Holes

Now for the fun part! Grab the handle of a wooden spoon (or a thick straw) and poke holes all over the cake. These little pockets will absorb all the gooey goodness coming next.

Step 3: Pour on the Magic

Slowly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Be patient—this is what makes the cake incredibly moist and flavorful!

Step 4: Chill & Set

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to an hour so all the flavors can meld together. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Step 5: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

While the cake is chilling, prepare your coconut-pecan frosting:

• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, and evaporated milk.
• Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Let it cool before spreading.

Step 6: Assemble & Decorate

• Spread the coconut-pecan frosting over the chilled cake.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
• Sprinkle with toasted pecans and coconut for a beautiful finish.

Step 7: Slice & Enjoy!

Now comes the best part dig in! Each bite is a gooey, chocolatey explosion of flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Pro Tips for Making German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Use warm caramel sauce – It spreads more easily and soaks into the cake better.
• Don’t skip the chilling step – It lets the flavors meld and gives the cake the perfect texture.
• For an extra chocolatey cake – Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle extra melted chocolate on top.
• Want a crunchier topping? Toast the pecans and coconut for an even richer, nuttier flavor.
• Make it your own – Swap caramel sauce for dulce de leche or add a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel twist.

How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake

This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, allowing all the flavors to fully develop. Here’s how to make it even more delicious:

• With a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream – Because cake + ice cream = perfection.
• A dollop of whipped cream – Light, fluffy, and balances the richness.
• A hot cup of coffee or espresso – The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.
• Extra caramel or chocolate drizzle – Because why not?

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors actually get better over time!
• If you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Freezing

• You can freeze the cake (without the frosting) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Thaw in the fridge before adding the frosting and toppings.

Reheating

• This cake is delicious cold, but if you like it warm, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds.
• If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs about German Chocolate Poke Cake

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you love indulgent, comforting treats like this German Chocolate Poke Cake, you’ll definitely want to check out these other mouthwatering recipes:

• Hawaiian Roll French Toast – Soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls soaked in a sweet cinnamon-vanilla batter and cooked to golden perfection. A breakfast favorite!
• Breakfast Cows in a Blanket – Fluffy pancakes wrapped around savory breakfast sausages easy, delicious, and perfect for busy mornings!
• French Coconut Pie – A rich, creamy coconut-filled pie with a perfectly golden crust. A must-try for coconut lovers!
• Chocolate Chip Protein Muffins – Soft, protein-packed muffins loaded with melty chocolate chips great for a healthy snack or breakfast on the go!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s rich, gooey, and irresistibly chocolatey, this German Chocolate Poke Cake is the one! It’s the perfect balance of moist chocolate cake, sweet caramel, nutty coconut-pecan frosting, and a luscious chocolate drizzle every bite is pure heaven. Best of all, it’s easy to make, whether you go the homemade or shortcut route.

This cake is guaranteed to impress at birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again! So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in chocolatey perfection.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out I’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy baking!

German Chocolate Poke Cake

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream! A moist chocolate cake is infused with sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce, creating an incredibly soft and gooey texture. It’s then topped with rich coconut-pecan frosting, silky chocolate drizzle, and toasted pecans & coconut for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The best part? It’s shockingly easy to make and even better the next day! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you need an indulgent treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup caramel sauce

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• ½ cup melted chocolate chips or chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
• ¼ cup toasted pecans (for topping)
• ¼ cup toasted shredded coconut (for topping)

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Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake batter by combining the cake mix, eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the package instructions (about 25-30 minutes).
4. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes—it should be warm but not too hot.

Step 2: Poke the Holes

5. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.

Step 3: Pour on the Magic

6. Slowly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.

Step 4: Chill & Set

7. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour so the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

8. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add brown sugar and evaporated milk.
9. Stir constantly and cook for 5-7 minutes, until slightly thickened.
10. Remove from heat, then stir in shredded coconut, toasted pecans, and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.

Step 6: Assemble & Decorate

11. Spread the coconut-pecan frosting evenly over the chilled cake.
12. Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with toasted pecans and coconut.

Step 7: Slice & Enjoy!

13. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy this decadent German Chocolate Poke Cake!

Notes

✔ Use warm caramel sauce – It spreads easily and seeps into the cake better.
✔ Don’t skip the chilling step – It allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
✔ For extra chocolate flavor – Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle extra melted chocolate on top.
✔ Toasted coconut & pecans enhance the nutty flavor don’t skip this step!
✔ Want a salted caramel twist? Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, German-inspired

Keywords: german chocolate poke cake, chocolate poke cake, moist chocolate cake, coconut pecan frosting, caramel chocolate cake, easy poke cake