German Chocolate Poke Cake

Looking for a dessert that’s easy to make yet indulgent enough to impress? This German Chocolate Poke Cake brings together everything you love about the classic German chocolate cake — moist chocolate layers, sweet caramel, rich pecans, and creamy coconut frosting — all in an easy-to-make, ultra-moist poke cake version.

With a luscious caramel filling that soaks into every bite and a fluffy pecan coconut frosting layered on top, this dessert is guaranteed to be the star of your next gathering. Whether you’re making it for a party, holiday, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake delivers rich, sweet, nutty perfection.

🍫 Why You’ll Love German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Ultra Moist Texture: The caramel and condensed milk soak into the cake for unbeatable moisture.
• Classic Flavors: Sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, buttery frosting, and caramel make every bite irresistible.
• Easy with Cake Mix: Simplifies prep without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: Even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix
• 1½ cups water
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs

For the Filling:

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup caramel sauce

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• Remaining caramel sauce
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

⏱️ Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (+ chilling time)
• Yield: 12 servings (1 cake)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: German-American
• Dietary: Vegetarian

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl, combine cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat until smooth.
• Pour into prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool for 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

• In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup caramel sauce until smooth.

3. Poke & Soak

• Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the warm cake, about 1 inch apart.
• Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.

4. Make the Frosting

• Beat softened butter until creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and remaining caramel sauce, beating until fluffy.
• Fold in chopped pecans and shredded coconut.

5. Frost & Chill

• Spread frosting over the cake, covering it completely.
• Refrigerate for 1–2 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.

🥄 Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Wooden spoon (for poking holes)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk

💡 Tips for the Best German Chocolate Poke Cake

• Use high-quality caramel sauce for a richer flavor.
• Toast the pecans and coconut for extra texture and flavor.
• Make ahead and chill overnight — it gets better the longer it sits.
• Garnish with extra pecans, coconut flakes, or a caramel drizzle for presentation.

🍽️ Perfect for Any Occasion

• Birthday parties
• Potlucks
• Holiday gatherings
• Family dinners
• Cravings for something rich, sweet, and satisfying

⚠️ Allergy Information

Please check all ingredient labels carefully for potential allergens, especially for nuts, dairy, or gluten, and consult a health professional if needed.

💬 Final Thoughts

This German Chocolate Poke Cake takes everything you love about classic German chocolate cake and elevates it with gooey caramel filling and fluffy coconut pecan frosting. Moist, rich, nutty, and sweet, it’s an easy dessert that never fails to impress. Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent, crowd-pleasing treats.

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