German Chocolate Poke Cake

 

German Chocolate Poke Cake – Rich, Moist & Irresistibly Decadent

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a chocolate lover's dream. A moist chocolate cake is soaked with sweetened condensed milk, then topped with silky chocolate ganache and a rich coconut-pecan frosting. Every bite is loaded with chocolate flavor and the classic German chocolate cake topping everyone loves.

Perfect for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or whenever you need an impressive dessert that everyone will rave about.

Flavor & Texture Highlights

• Ultra-moist chocolate cake
• Creamy sweetened condensed milk filling
• Rich chocolate ganache topping
• Classic coconut pecan frosting

Jump to Section

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips
• Storage

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Easy semi-homemade dessert
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
• Rich chocolate flavor in every bite
• Even better when made ahead

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix
• Ingredients listed on the cake mix package (eggs, oil, and water)

For the Filling

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

For the Ganache

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Coconut Pecan Topping

• 1 container coconut pecan frosting (15–16 oz)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat oven according to the cake mix directions. Prepare the cake batter and bake in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.

Step 4: Prepare the Ganache

Heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Spread the Ganache

Pour the ganache over the cake and spread evenly.

Step 6: Make the Topping

In a bowl, combine the coconut pecan frosting, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.

Step 7: Finish the Cake

Spread the coconut pecan mixture evenly over the chocolate ganache layer.

Step 8: Chill

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tips for Success

• Poke plenty of holes so the filling soaks throughout the cake
• Allow the cake to chill completely before slicing
• Toast the pecans for extra flavor
• Make it a day ahead for the best texture

Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

The cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have blended together.

Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe Card

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Bake Time: 30 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Servings: 12–15

Ingredients

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 container coconut pecan frosting
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Bake cake according to package directions.
2. Poke holes across the warm cake.
3. Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake.
4. Prepare chocolate ganache and spread over cake.
5. Mix frosting, coconut, and pecans.
6. Spread topping over ganache.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
8. Slice and serve.

Final Thoughts

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is rich, moist, and packed with layers of chocolate, coconut, and pecan goodness. It's an easy dessert that looks impressive and always disappears quickly at parties and family gatherings.