German Chocolate Poke Cake

Have you ever craved a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate with a sweet, creamy topping? If so, the German Chocolate Poke Cake might just be your new favorite indulgence! This cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or special occasions. With its moist layers and luscious coconut-pecan frosting, this poke cake will challenge your beliefs about traditional desserts and leave your guests wanting more. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful treat that combines the best of chocolate cake with the classic flavors of German chocolate.

Ingredients List

To create a mouthwatering German Chocolate Poke Cake, gather the following ingredients:

Cake Ingredients

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs

Poking Mixture

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Coconut-Pecan Frosting

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

• Additional chopped pecans
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings

These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful cake that’s sure to impress!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan.

Step 4: Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the top of the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This step is crucial as it allows the sweetened condensed milk mixture to soak into the cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Poking Mixture

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.

Step 6: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

In another saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Spread the coconut-pecan frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving, which helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into squares and serve with optional toppings like whipped cream, additional pecans, or chocolate shavings for an extra touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per slice (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 25g

This indulgent dessert offers a delightful balance of flavors while still being mindful of portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make your German Chocolate Poke Cake a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use a sugar-free cake mix to reduce added sugars.
• Replace sweetened condensed milk with a homemade version using low-fat milk and a sugar substitute.
• Opt for light coconut milk instead of evaporated milk in the frosting to cut down on calories.

These alternatives can help maintain the cake’s delicious flavor while making it a bit more health-conscious.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your German Chocolate Poke Cake by trying these serving suggestions:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
• Pair with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing contrast.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate syrup for added decadence.

These ideas not only enhance the presentation but also add layers of flavor that will impress your guests!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls when making German Chocolate Poke Cake and how to avoid them:

• Not letting the cake cool enough before poking: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes helps prevent the poking holes from collapsing.
• Overbaking the cake: Keep a close eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to a dry cake. Check for doneness a few minutes early.
• Skipping the soaking step: Poking holes is essential to allow the chocolate mixture to penetrate the cake, ensuring maximum flavor and moisture.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure a perfectly moist and flavorful cake every time!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To store your German Chocolate Poke Cake properly:

• Room Temperature: Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. The frosting may firm up, but the flavors will continue to develop.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

These storage tips will help maintain the cake’s freshness and flavor for as long as possible.

Conclusion

In summary, the German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with a creamy coconut-pecan topping. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes! While German chocolate cake mix is traditional, you can use any chocolate cake mix to suit your preferences.

How can I make this cake ahead of time?

You can bake the cake and prepare the frosting a day in advance. Just assemble it on the day you plan to serve for the best texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.