Oh my goodness, if you’ve never tried a German chocolate poke cake, you’re in for a treat! This cake is all about rich, velvety chocolate flavors paired with a luscious coconut and pecan frosting that just takes it over the top. The beauty of this German chocolate poke cake recipe is how it absorbs all that sweetened condensed milk, making it incredibly moist and indulgent. Trust me, every bite is like a little piece of heaven! It’s such a fun cake to make, and the best part is that it’s super easy—perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. I can already smell that warm chocolate goodness wafting through my kitchen just thinking about it! Let’s dive in and make some magic happen with this cake!
Ingredients for German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious German chocolate poke cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix: This is the foundation of our cake, bringing that rich chocolate flavor right from the start.
- 1 cup water: This helps to hydrate the cake mix and keep the cake moist. You can also use milk for a creamier texture!
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: The oil adds moisture and keeps the cake tender. Trust me, don’t skip this one!
- 3 large eggs: Eggs give the cake structure and help it rise beautifully. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best mixing.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk: This is the magic ingredient that soaks into the cake, making it impossibly moist and sweet.
- 1 cup coconut flakes: They add that delightful chewiness and a tropical vibe to our frosting. I love using sweetened flakes for extra sweetness!
- 1 cup chopped pecans: These nuts give a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the coconut.
- 1 cup whipped topping: This lightens up the cake and adds a creamy finish. You can use store-bought or homemade—both are delicious!
With these ingredients ready to go, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering German chocolate poke cake that everyone will love!
How to Prepare the German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into preparing this delectable German chocolate poke cake! Follow these steps to ensure everything turns out perfectly.
Prepping Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for a well-baked cake! While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it generously with butter or cooking spray, then lightly dust it with flour. This will help the cake come out easily once it’s baked. Make sure to get into all the corners!
Mixing the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. It’s super important to use room temperature eggs—they mix in better and give you a fluffier cake! Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat everything together until the batter is smooth and lump-free. You want it velvety and ready to rise to the occasion!
Baking the Cake
Pour that luscious batter into your prepared pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Resist the urge to open the oven door too soon—this can cause your cake to sink!
Creating the Poke Effect
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, grab the handle of a wooden spoon (or anything similar) and poke holes all over the cake—this is where the magic happens! Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake while it’s still warm, making sure to fill those holes. This will ensure every bite is incredibly moist and sweet.
Adding the Coconut and Pecan Frosting
In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut flakes and chopped pecans. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the cake, making sure it covers every inch for that delightful crunch and flavor. Don’t be shy—layer it on thick!
Final Touches and Chilling
Finally, top it all off with a generous layer of whipped topping. This adds a light, creamy finish that balances the richness of the cake. Now, here’s the important part—refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling it really enhances the flavors and makes it even more irresistible!
Tips for Success with German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
To truly nail this German chocolate poke cake, here are some of my favorite tips! First, always use high-quality chocolate cake mix; it makes a world of difference in flavor. Don’t forget to let your eggs and any other refrigerated ingredients come to room temperature before mixing—this helps achieve that smooth, lump-free batter we’re all after!
When you’re mixing, be careful not to overbeat the batter; just mix until everything is combined for a tender cake. And for serving, consider garnishing with extra coconut and pecans on top of the whipped topping for a beautiful presentation. Trust me, your guests will be impressed! Lastly, let the cake chill longer if you can—it really helps meld those flavors together for an unforgettable dessert!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
When it comes to enjoying this delightful German chocolate poke cake, it’s always good to have a rough idea of what you’re indulging in. Based on the ingredients used, a typical serving of this cake contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keep in mind that these values are just estimates and can vary based on specific brands and variations in ingredients you might choose. So, while you’re treating yourself to a slice of this cake, you can enjoy it even more knowing what’s in it!
FAQ about German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Got questions about making this scrumptious German chocolate poke cake? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear:
How long does the cake need to chill?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend letting the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully. If you can wait longer, even better—overnight is perfect!
Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with a classic German chocolate cake mix, you can experiment with other chocolate cake mixes if you’re feeling adventurous. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary a bit, but it’ll still be tasty!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is fantastic for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
What can I use instead of whipped topping?
If you prefer, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping. Just whip some heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form, and spread it over the cake. Yum!
Can I freeze the German chocolate poke cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Just make sure it’s completely chilled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 4-5 days, but trust me, it won’t last that long because it’s just so delicious!
If you have more questions or need tips, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you create the most scrumptious German chocolate poke cake!
Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
- Incredibly Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Rich and Decadent Flavors: The combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the sweetened condensed milk soaking in, every bite is moist and absolutely delightful.
- Impressive Presentation: Topped with whipped cream and coconut-pecan frosting, it looks as good as it tastes—perfect for gatherings!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance, letting the flavors develop for an even tastier treat when it’s time to serve.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good poke cake, and this version is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Storing your delicious German chocolate poke cake properly is key to keeping it fresh and tasty! Once your cake has chilled and you’re ready to store leftovers, simply cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent any drying out or absorbing other fridge odors. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days—although I doubt it’ll last that long because it’s so irresistible!
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake! Just ensure it’s fully chilled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. There’s no need to reheat; this cake is best served chilled, but if you prefer it a bit warm, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it—nobody wants a dried-out cake!
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German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe: 5 Steps to Pure Bliss
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and delicious German chocolate poke cake filled with coconut and pecan frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup coconut flakes
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup whipped topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes.
- Poke holes in the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, filling the holes.
- In a bowl, mix coconut flakes and chopped pecans.
- Spread the coconut-pecan mixture over the cake.
- Top with whipped topping and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Let the cake chill for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: german chocolate poke cake recipe
