Best German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe – Ultimate Dessert

Looking for the ultimate German Chocolate Poke Cake recipe that’s rich, indulgent, and irresistibly moist? This easy poke cake recipe takes the classic German chocolate cake to a whole new level by infusing it with sweet caramel sauce, creamy condensed milk, and crunchy pecans.

Whether you need a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion or just want to satisfy your chocolate cravings, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s super easy to make using a cake mix base, making it perfect for beginner bakers!

What is a Poke Cake?

A poke cake is a dessert where you poke holes into a freshly baked cake and fill them with flavor-enhancing ingredients such as caramel, sweetened condensed milk, or pudding. This technique makes the cake extra moist and flavorful!

Fun Fact: Despite its name, German Chocolate Cake isn’t from Germany! It was actually named after Samuel German, the chocolatier who created Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate in the 1850s.

Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Poke Cake

Super Moist & Flavorful – Caramel and condensed milk soak into the cake for an ultra-moist texture.
Quick & Easy – Uses a cake mix for a foolproof dessert.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for birthdays, holidays, and potlucks.
Customizable – Easily make it nut-free, dairy-free, or lower sugar.
Better with Time – The cake tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients for German Chocolate Poke Cake

Main Ingredients:

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix (+ ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup chocolate frosting
• ½ cup caramel frosting

Optional Ingredient Swaps:

Nut-Free Version – Omit pecans, add more shredded coconut.
Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut milk instead of condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Low-Sugar Version – Use sugar-free caramel sauce and low-sugar cake mix.

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake – Step by Step

Step1: Bake the Cake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Prepare German chocolate cake mix according to package instructions.
• Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake as directed.

Step2: Poke Holes in the Cake

• Once baked, let the cake cool slightly.
• Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake (deep but not all the way through).

Step3: Add the Sweet Filling

• Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake.
• Next, drizzle caramel sauce, ensuring it seeps into the holes for extra moisture.

Step4: Add the Toppings

• Sprinkle chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans evenly over the cake.

Step5: Frost the Cake

• Microwave chocolate and caramel frosting for 10-15 seconds until pourable.
• Drizzle both frostings over the cake for a rich, decadent finish.

Step6: Let It Set & Serve

• Let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• Refrigerate for 2-4 hours for the best texture.

Pro Tips for the Best German Chocolate Poke Cake

Use High-Quality Chocolate – Better chocolate = richer flavor.
Refrigerate Overnight – Enhances the cake’s texture and taste.
Toast the Coconut & Pecans – Adds a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Use Homemade Caramel Sauce – A more natural, rich taste.

Best Ways to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake

Serve Chilled – Allows the flavors to fully develop.
With Ice Cream – Vanilla bean ice cream pairs beautifully.
Or Coffee – The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness.
With Fresh Fruit – Adds a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sugar: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg

Tip: To reduce calories, use sugar-free caramel sauce and low-fat frosting.

Storage & Leftovers

How to Store:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual slices and store in a freezer-safe container for 2 months.

How to Reheat:

• Microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade cake mix instead of boxed cake mix?

Absolutely! A homemade German chocolate cake works beautifully.

2. What can I use instead of caramel sauce?

Try butterscotch sauce or maple syrup.

3. Why is my cake dry?

• Don’t overbake – check doneness with a toothpick.
• Ensure holes are properly filled with caramel & condensed milk.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a day in the fridge.

5. Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes! Simply poke holes into each cupcake and fill individually.

Related Recipes 

• Easy Carrot Cake with Pineapple – Best Carrot Cake Recipe

• Strawberry Lemon No-Bake Cheesecake – Easy Dessert

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With moist chocolate cake, caramel, pecans, and coconut, every bite is pure indulgence.

Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments. If you love it, don’t forget to share it with friends & family!

📌 Save this recipe for later by pinning it to your dessert board on Pinterest!

Enjoy your delicious German Chocolate Poke Cake!

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