Introduction
Looking for a fun and tasty dessert that’s super easy to make? Let’s talk about German Chocolate Poke Cake! This sweet treat is moist, rich, and full of chocolate and coconut flavor. The best part? It’s made using a boxed cake mix and just a few extra ingredients. Now, you might be wondering — what exactly is a poke cake?
It’s a cake where you poke holes in it after baking, then pour a creamy filling over the top so it soaks right in. The result? A soft, gooey, and extra flavorful cake that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a family get-together, or just a regular day, this German Chocolate Poke Cake is sure to be a hit. Let’s get started!
Ingredients – German Chocolate Poke Cake
Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to make this cake. Most of them are easy to find at your local grocery store.
For the Cake:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)
- Non-stick cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
For the Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce or topping
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, but yummy!)
- Extra caramel sauce (for drizzling on top)
Step-by-Step Process – German Chocolate Poke Cake
Let’s break it down into easy steps. This recipe is simple enough for beginners — even kids can help!
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
- Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box.
- Pour the batter into the pan and bake it for the time shown on the box (usually about 30-35 minutes).
- Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. If it comes out clean, you’re good!
Step 2: Poke the Cake
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
- Take the handle of a wooden spoon or a thick straw and gently poke holes all over the cake. Try to space them out evenly.
- Don’t poke all the way to the bottom—just about two-thirds deep.
Step 3: Add the Filling
- In a bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and the caramel sauce together.
- Slowly pour the mixture over the warm cake, letting it soak into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely. You can put it in the fridge to speed things up.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Once the cake is cool, spread the whipped topping over the whole surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans evenly on top.
- If you like, add chocolate chips and a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Let the cake chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450–500 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 65g |
| Sugars | 45g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this cake a day ahead?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Q2: Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely. If you have a favorite homemade German chocolate cake recipe, go for it! The rest of the steps stay the same.
Q3: What if I don’t like coconut or pecans?
No worries. You can leave them out or replace them with chopped almonds, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered with foil or plastic wrap. It stays good for up to 4 days.
Q5: Can I freeze German Chocolate Poke Cake?
Yes, you can. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Final Thoughts
And that’s it — your easy, step-by-step guide to making a German Chocolate Poke Cake that’s rich, gooey, and full of flavor!
This dessert has it all — a soft chocolate cake base, a sweet and sticky caramel center, and a creamy whipped topping loaded with coconut and pecans. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any day you want to treat yourself and your family.
Plus, it’s so simple that even beginner bakers (or kids helping in the kitchen) can do it without stress. You don’t need fancy tools or skills — just a few basic ingredients and a little time. So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and satisfying, give this cake a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
