German Chocolate Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Moist: The sweetened condensed milk and caramel soak into the cake, making every bite rich and moist.
• Simple Ingredients: With the help of a boxed cake mix, this recipe is easy to prepare without compromising on flavor.
• Coconut and Pecans: The combination of shredded coconut and chopped pecans adds a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor to the cake.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 box of German chocolate cake mix
• 1 1/2 cups of water
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup of caramel sauce
• 1 cup of chopped pecans
• 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup of butter, softened
• 4 cups of powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup of milk

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat until the mixture is well combined.
3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Once the cake is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
5. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 cup of caramel sauce. Whisk until well combined.
6. Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes into the cake at 1-inch intervals.
7. Pour the caramel sauce mixture over the cake, making sure to spread it evenly into the holes.
8. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and the remaining caramel sauce, mixing until smooth and creamy.
9. Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut.
10. Spread the frosting over the cake, making sure to cover it completely.
11. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.
12. Enjoy your delicious German Chocolate Poke Cake!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves approximately 12-15 people
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey twist, fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the frosting mixture.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this a gluten-free dessert.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: The cake can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the frosting. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cake and add the frosting.
• Reheating: The cake is best served cold, but if you’d like it warm, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without the caramel sauce?

Yes, you can substitute the caramel sauce with chocolate ganache or a butterscotch sauce for a different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch pan?

If you don’t have a 9×13-inch pan, you can use a slightly smaller pan, but the cake may need a longer baking time. Just keep an eye on it and do the toothpick test.

Can I make the cake from scratch?

Yes, you can substitute the box cake mix with homemade German chocolate cake, but the process will take a bit longer.

How do I keep the frosting from being too runny?

Ensure that the butter is softened but not melted before making the frosting. If the frosting is too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

You can experiment with other cake mixes, like chocolate or vanilla, but the classic German chocolate cake mix adds a specific flavor that complements the caramel and coconut.

Can I add more fruit or toppings?

You can top this cake with fresh berries or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an added touch of sweetness.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Is there an alternative to sweetened condensed milk?

You can use evaporated milk with sugar, but it will not be as sweet as the sweetened condensed milk, so adjust the sugar accordingly.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake before frosting it. After thawing, frost and serve.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and refrigerate it before adding the frosting. Just allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion or just a sweet treat for the family. With its blend of chocolate, caramel, pecans, and coconut, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious!