German Chocolate Poke Cake with Caramel and Coconut Pecan Frosting

Name: German Chocolate Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 box German Chocolate Cake Mix plus what's on the box (eggs, oil, water).; 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened Condensed Milk.; 1 jar (12 oz) Caramel Topping.; 1 container (16 oz) Coconut Pecan Frosting.; 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed.; 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted.; 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted for extra crunch.

Featured in Delicious Desserts.

This indulgent German chocolate poke cake takes the classic dessert up a notch. The moist chocolate cake gets soaked with a sweet caramel mixture, then topped with coconut-pecan frosting and whipped topping. It's perfect for parties and special occasions.

By Norah Momoria

Updated on Tue, 21 Jan 2025 13:26:36 GMT

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A close-up of a slice of dessert featuring layers of chocolate cake topped with caramel, brown sugar, and chocolate chips. | recipesim.com

The Most Amazing German Chocolate Poke Cake

This cake brings back such sweet memories of baking with my grandma. The way rich chocolate blends with gooey coconut pecan frosting just makes everything better. I love watching people's faces light up when they discover those pockets of caramel hiding inside each slice. The recipe actually has quite a story behind it starting back in 1852 when a guy named Samuel German created special dark chocolate for Baker's. That chocolate became the star of what we now know as German Chocolate Cake which really took off after a Dallas newspaper shared the recipe in 1957. My poke cake version makes it even more indulgent by adding sweet condensed milk and caramel that soaks right into the cake. Top it with coconut pecan frosting and Cool Whip and you've got pure dessert magic.

Why You'll Love This Cake

This cake has saved so many of my parties and family gatherings. It's super easy to make but looks totally impressive when you serve it. The combination of chocolate coconut and pecans gets everyone excited and those little pockets of caramel make every bite special. Best part is you can make it ahead which is perfect when you're busy hosting.

A close-up view of a decadent chocolate brownie topped with shiny caramel and dark chocolate chips. | recipesim.com

Shopping List

German Chocolate Cake Mix: 1 box plus what's on the box eggs oil water
Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can 14 oz makes everything extra moist
Caramel Topping: 1 jar 12 oz the secret to amazing flavor
Coconut Pecan Frosting: 1 container 16 oz store bought saves time
Cool Whip: 1 container 8 oz let it thaw in the fridge
Shredded Coconut: 1/2 cup sweetened then toasted
Pecans: 1/2 cup chopped and toasted for extra crunch

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why do you poke holes in the cake?: The holes allow the caramel and milk mixture to soak into the cake, making it extra moist and adding flavor throughout every bite.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?: Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge. The flavor actually gets better as it sits.
→ How do I toast coconut and pecans?: Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring once, until golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
→ Can I freeze this cake?: While you can freeze the basic cake, it's best not to freeze after adding the toppings as the texture of the Cool Whip may change.
→ What if I can't find German chocolate cake mix?: Regular chocolate cake mix works fine. The main difference is German chocolate cake is slightly sweeter and milder in chocolate flavor.