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German Chocolate Poke Cake

German Chocolate Poke Cake

German Chocolate Poke Cake is a moist, rich, and gooey dessert featuring a chocolate cake base soaked with evaporated milk and topped with a luscious coconut-pecan filling and creamy chocolate frosting. This easy-to-make cake offers a perfect balance of chocolate, coconut, and nuts, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Cake Base

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade equivalent)
  • Ingredients required for the cake mix (eggs, oil, water) as per package or recipe

Filling

  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
  • 2/3 cup (1 1/3 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • 1 container (about 16 oz) chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Bake the Chocolate Cake: Prepare your favorite chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before proceeding.
  2. Poke Holes in the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or similar utensil, poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about an inch apart. This step allows the filling to soak in, creating the signature moist texture.
  3. Prepare and Pour the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, coconut, and pecans. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the warm coconut-pecan mixture evenly over the cake, filling the holes and pressing gently to ensure good absorption.
  4. Bake Again to Set: Return the filled cake to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the filling to set and meld with the chocolate cake base, providing the perfect blend of gooeyness and structure.
  5. Frost and Chill: After the cake cools completely, spread a rich layer of chocolate frosting evenly over the top. For best results, chill the cake for several hours so that the flavors meld together and the frosting firms up.

Notes

  • Pour the coconut-pecan filling warm but not too hot for optimal soaking without melting the cake.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and a tender cake crumb.
  • Chilling the cake enhances flavor blending and makes it easier to cut and serve.
  • Distribute poke holes evenly across the cake for consistent moisture.
  • Choose good-quality chocolate for frosting and optional chips to elevate flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: german chocolate poke cake, chocolate poke cake, coconut pecan poke cake, easy chocolate dessert, moist chocolate cake