Can I use a cake mix for this recipe?

Yes! A devil’s food or chocolate fudge cake mix works perfectly. If you prefer homemade, a classic chocolate cake recipe will do the trick.

What can I use instead of caramel sauce?

You can use dulce de leche or butterscotch sauce for a similar flavor. If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, try hot fudge sauce instead!

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, this cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and add any fresh garnishes before serving.

Do I have to poke holes in the cake?

Yes! That’s what makes it a poke cake it allows all the sweetened condensed milk and caramel to soak in, making the cake extra moist and flavorful.

Best German Chocolate Poke Cake 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake batter by combining the cake mix, eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the package instructions (about 25-30 minutes).
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

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

Step 3: Pour on the Magic

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

Step 4: Chill & Set

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

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

Step 6: Assemble & Decorate

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

Step 7: Slice & Enjoy!

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