The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake
The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake is a decadent, moist chocolate dessert featuring a luscious coconut-pecan filling that soaks into the cake through poked holes, topped with a silky chocolate glaze. This layered flavor combination creates a rich and irresistible treat perfect for any occasion, offering delicious textures and comforting sweetness in every bite.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free cake mix substitution)
For the Cake
- 1 chocolate cake mix (or homemade equivalent)
- Butter (amount as per cake mix or recipe)
- Optional: cinnamon or espresso powder (for spiced twist)
For the Coconut-Pecan Filling
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 fl oz)
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or equivalent melted chocolate
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare the cake: Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions or your preferred homemade recipe in a 9×13-inch baking pan. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly but keep it warm enough to be easily poked.
- Poke the cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, poke holes evenly all over the surface of the cake. This step creates channels for the filling to soak into, ensuring moistness in every bite.
- Make the coconut-pecan filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, coconut flakes, and chopped pecans. Stir constantly for about 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown, forming a gooey caramel-like filling.
- Pour the filling over the cake: Slowly pour the warm coconut-pecan filling evenly onto the poked cake. The filling will seep into the holes and coat the top, infusing the cake with moisture and rich flavor.
- Add the chocolate topping: While the cake is still warm, sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top, allowing them to melt and spread. Alternatively, drizzle melted chocolate evenly across the surface for a smooth, elegant finish. Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh coconut flakes and pecans to maximize flavor and texture.
- Ensure you poke the cake properly to allow the filling to penetrate evenly for optimal moistness.
- Pour the filling warm over the cake to improve absorption.
- Refrigerate the cake for a few hours before serving to help flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust sweetness or nuts gradually to maintain balance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: German chocolate cake, poke cake, coconut pecan filling, chocolate cake, dessert, moist cake, layered flavors