The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake
The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, moist dessert featuring a tender chocolate cake base infused with a luscious coconut-pecan filling. Combining deep chocolate flavor with the classic Southern coconut-pecan topping, this easy-to-make poke cake delivers a moist, decadent treat perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cake Base
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- Butter or oil as per cake mix instructions
- Eggs as per cake mix instructions
- Water as per cake mix instructions
Creamy Coconut-Pecan Filling
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare and Bake the Cake: Mix the chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions without overmixing. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly.
- Poke the Cake: Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes evenly all over the surface of the slightly cooled cake. These holes will allow the filling to soak in for added moisture and flavor.
- Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 7 to 10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the Filling Over the Cake: Slowly pour the warm coconut-pecan filling evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes for maximum moisture and flavor distribution.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for several hours or overnight to let the filling set and flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Thoroughly poke the cake for maximum filling absorption and moistness.
- Constantly stir the filling while cooking to prevent curdling and achieve proper thickening.
- Chill the cake overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Optionally toast pecans briefly to boost nuttiness and crunch.
- Substitute ingredients to make dairy-free, vegan, or nut-free variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: German chocolate poke cake, coconut pecan cake, chocolate poke cake, Southern dessert, coconut pecan filling, easy chocolate cake