Name: German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box German chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz); 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings comfort, indulgence, and that perfect combo of moist chocolate and rich coconut-pecan filling, you’ve got to try this German Chocolate Poke Cake. It’s a wonderfully simple twist on the classic German chocolate cake, with holes poked into the warm cake so a luscious, gooey filling seeps right in, creating layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. This cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser and perfect for everything from casual family dinners to special celebrations.

German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind the German Chocolate Poke Cake starts with straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver rich taste and moist texture. Each one plays a key role, from the fudgy cake base to the decadent coconut-pecan filling that oozes into every bite.

German chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz): The foundation of your cake, a classic mix that ensures fluffy, chocolatey goodness with minimal effort.
Water (1 cup): Essential for mixing the cake batter and keeping it tender and soft.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake moist and rich without overpowering the flavors.
Large eggs (3): Bind the ingredients together and add structure to your cake.
Evaporated milk (12 oz can): A creamy component that helps create the luscious coconut-pecan filling.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps the filling thicken perfectly.
Sweetened shredded coconut (1 cup): Brings that signature texture and tropical flavor in this German Chocolate Poke Cake.
Chopped pecans (1 cup): For crunch and nutty richness in every spoonful.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Intensifies the chocolate flavor in the filling, balancing the sweetness.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Adds extra sweetness and helps thicken the filling for that perfect consistency.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors while adding a lovely aromatic touch.

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch pan to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix with water, vegetable oil, and eggs, then beat everything on medium speed for about two minutes until the batter is smooth and unified. Pour this fragrant batter into your pan, spreading it evenly, and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake appears golden on top.

Step 2: Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling

While the cake is baking, whisk together the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously—this is key—to prevent scorching. After 5 to 7 minutes, you’ll notice the mixture beginning to thicken, signaling that you’re on the right track. Remove it from the heat, then fold in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. This filling is what makes the German Chocolate Poke Cake truly unforgettable with its sticky, nutty, and sweet character.

Step 3: Poke and Pour

Once the cake is out of the oven, give it about 10 minutes to cool slightly—not so much that it’s cold, but cool enough to handle. Use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes all over the cake’s surface; these holes will be the perfect little pockets to soak up the heavenly coconut-pecan mixture. Slowly pour the filling over the cake while it’s still warm, letting it seep into every crevice. Leave your cake to cool completely to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Slice and Delight

After the cake has fully cooled and the filling has thickened, slice into generous squares and prepare to impress anyone lucky enough to have a piece. The gooey filling nestled inside the rich chocolate cake makes each bite rich, satisfying, and a little bit dreamy.

How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake

Garnishes

Add a little extra charm by sprinkling toasted pecans or additional shredded coconut on top before serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside elevates the decadence, balancing warm, rich flavors with cool creaminess.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries, which provide a bright contrast to the rich sweetness. A simple cup of coffee or black tea also complements the dessert, letting the German Chocolate Poke Cake shine as the star of your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your German Chocolate Poke Cake in individual mason jars layered with whipped cream for a picnic-style dessert. Alternatively, turn it into a trifle by layering cubes with pudding and coconut flakes for guests who love a visually stunning treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your German Chocolate Poke Cake tastes just as amazing the next day! Keep leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps preserve the moistness and rich flavors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cake in an airtight container wrapped well to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to slice beforehand for easy thawing—let the pieces thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy within 2 months for peak taste.

Reheating

For best results, warm individual slices slightly in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This gently softens the cake and revitalizes the gooey filling, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious again.

FAQs

Can I make the coconut-pecan filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before pouring over your baked cake to ensure it soaks in beautifully.

What if I don’t have evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk gives the filling its creamy consistency, but you can substitute it with an equal amount of whole milk and reduce the cooking time slightly. The texture may be a bit lighter, but the flavor will still be wonderful.

Is this cake very sweet?

The German Chocolate Poke Cake strikes a lovely balance between sweet and rich, thanks to the cocoa and coconut-pecan filling. If you prefer less sweetness, you can slightly reduce the granulated sugar in the filling without losing the essential flavor.

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite scratch-made chocolate cake recipe, go for it. Just ensure the cake bakes in a 9×13 inch pan and holds its shape well enough to be poked without crumbling.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

Use a slender tool like a wooden skewer, a chopstick, or the end of a spoon handle. Insert it straight down about an inch deep, spacing holes evenly about 1 inch apart across the whole surface to allow maximum filling seepage.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about a German Chocolate Poke Cake that combines the ease of a boxed mix with the show-stopping richness of homemade filling. It’s a recipe that’s both approachable and impressive, perfect whenever you want to treat yourself or wow your guests. Honestly, once you try it, this cake will become a beloved classic in your dessert repertoire—so go ahead, bake it, share it, and enjoy every luscious bite!

“`

German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 22 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a decadent twist on the classic dessert, featuring moist chocolate cake infused with a rich coconut-pecan filling poured over warm, hole-poked cake. Topped with a luscious blend of sweetened coconut, chopped pecans, and cocoa, this dessert is perfect for gatherings and chocolate lovers alike.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer for 2 minutes until fully blended and smooth.
Bake Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the greased pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
Prepare Filling: While the cake bakes, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Finish Filling Mixture: Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in shredded coconut, chopped pecans, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until all ingredients are well combined into a rich filling.
Cool & Poke Cake: Once the cake is done, cool it on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake to allow the filling to seep in.
Pour Filling Over Cake: Evenly pour the coconut-pecan filling over the warm cake, letting it seep into the holes for maximum flavor and moisture. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature before serving.
Serve: Slice the cake into pieces and serve to enjoy a moist, flavorful German Chocolate Poke Cake that’s sure to impress.

Notes

You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
For an extra decadent touch, serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Make sure the cake is warm when pouring the filling so it absorbs better.
Use sweetened shredded coconut for the best balance of sweetness and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American