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The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Keywords: German chocolate poke cake, coconut pecan cake, chocolate poke cake, Southern dessert, coconut pecan filling, easy chocolate cake