German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of German chocolate cake, sweetened condensed milk, and caramel with the crunch of pecans and coconut. This cake is easy to make, incredibly indulgent, and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy topping and gooey texture, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients

1 box German chocolate cake mix
Ingredients required on cake mix box (eggs, oil, water)
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 jar caramel sauce
1 container whipped topping
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Directions

Prepare and bake the German chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake, spreading it evenly across the surface.
Spread whipped topping over the entire cake, covering it evenly.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans and shredded coconut over the top.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add a layer of chocolate chips over the whipped topping for extra chocolate richness.
Nut-Free Version: Skip the pecans if you prefer a nut-free cake or use other nuts like almonds or walnuts.
Coconut-Free Option: If you’re not a fan of coconut, omit it and add additional chopped nuts or sprinkles for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the leftover German Chocolate Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake is best served chilled, and it will retain its moist texture even after a few days. For reheating, you can serve individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but the cake is typically best enjoyed cold.

10 FAQs

Can I make this cake without the caramel sauce? Yes, you can skip the caramel sauce if you prefer a simpler flavor, or substitute it with chocolate sauce or fruit preserves for a different twist.
Can I use a different cake mix? While German chocolate cake mix gives the best flavor, you can experiment with other cake mixes, such as chocolate or vanilla, but the traditional German chocolate flavor complements the ingredients best.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping? Yes, you can use fresh whipped cream, but keep in mind that it might not hold its shape as well in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent the sweetened condensed milk from pooling at the bottom of the cake? Make sure to poke holes deep enough and pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly, allowing it to absorb throughout the cake.
Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It will taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
Can I freeze German Chocolate Poke Cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake without the whipped topping and toppings for up to 3 months. After thawing, add the whipped topping, pecans, and coconut before serving.
Can I use sugar-free condensed milk? You can substitute sugar-free sweetened condensed milk, but keep in mind it may affect the cake’s overall flavor and sweetness.
What other nuts can I use in place of pecans? Walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts would be great alternatives to pecans.
How do I ensure the cake has a moist texture? Make sure to pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly and evenly over the cake, filling all the holes. The milk will help keep the cake moist and flavorful.
How long should I refrigerate the cake? Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to set and the topping to firm up before serving.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, indulgent treat that combines the classic flavors of German chocolate with a creamy, gooey texture. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for parties, holidays, or any occasion that calls for something sweet. With the combination of sweetened condensed milk, caramel, whipped topping, and crunchy pecans and coconut, this cake is sure to be a hit. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, yet delivers big on flavor!