Description
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a moist and decadent dessert featuring a rich chocolate cake soaked with sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut, and pecans, it’s an easy-to-make treat perfect for celebrations or any time you want to indulge in classic American flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
Toppings and Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 ounces) caramel sauce
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the package directions, usually combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake as directed on the package, typically about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Poke Holes: Let the cake cool for 10 minutes. Then, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the warm cake to allow the filling to soak in.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Caramel Sauce: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire cake, letting it seep into the holes. Follow by pouring the caramel sauce over the cake evenly as well.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature, which helps the flavors meld and the toppings set properly.
- Apply Whipped Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake surface.
- Add Toasted Coconut and Pecans: Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut and toasted chopped pecans evenly over the whipped topping.
- Garnish and Chill: If desired, garnish with chocolate shavings for an extra decorative touch. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to set all the flavors and textures.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top before serving.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Toasting the coconut and pecans enhances their flavor and crunch, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy texture.
