German Chocolate Poke Cake

This is a soft German Chocolate Poke Cake topped with a creamy sauce and crunchy nuts. It’s delicious, sweet, and has a great texture.

I learned to make German Chocolate Poke Cake when I was in college. At first, I thought it was a traditional German cake just because of the name. But I later found out that it actually comes from the U.S. The cake doesn’t have a classic recipe, but it does include some basics like poking holes in the cake and adding caramel sauce.

I shared the version of the German Chocolate Poke Cake that I always make, which is a bit different from the traditional way. I prepare the chocolate cake separately, just like any regular chocolate cake. For the topping, I mix sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. I didn’t use whipped topping in my version, but I mentioned it because some people might like it for extra creaminess. I just used the sauce on top with a few small pieces of nuts which is enough for me.

The taste is delicious, and the cake is perfect for a cozy family evening with a warm drink. You can also enjoy it in the morning. It’s sweet and easy to make.

What is German Chocolate Poke Cake?

This classic German Chocolate Poke Cake is made from a chocolate cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, and caramel sauce, and topped with whipped cream (Optional), and chopped pecans. A soft chocolate cake with holes poked allowing the sweet caramel mixture to soak in. The cake is easy to make at home and has the crunchy and sweet flavor that everyone loves.

Ingredients

• 1 box of chocolate cake mix or chocolate fudge cake mix (I used chocolate cake mix for this recipe)
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup whipped topping

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or straw
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack (for cooling)

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake?

Step 1:

Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan. Mix chocolate cake mix, water, oil, and eggs in a big bowl until smooth.

Step 2:

Pour the mix into the pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Step 3:

Cool the cake for 10 minutes, then move it to a rack. When it’s cool, poke holes all over with a wooden spoon.

Step 4:

Mix sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Pour it over the cake, letting it go into the holes.

Step 5:

You can Spread whipped topping on the cake and sprinkle it with shredded coconut and chopped pecans. (I didn’t add this step for this recipe, I only added the mix of sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce with some nuts).

Step 6:

Put the cake in the fridge for 2 hours to set. Then Enjoy.

some Tips!

• Before you start poking holes or adding the topping, let the cake cool completely.
• Use the end of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes, but don’t press too hard.
• Let the cake cool before you poke holes or add the toppings you want.
• Putting the cake in the refrigerator for a couple of hours helps the caramel and topping set.

How to Store Leftovers?

Put any leftover cake in a container with a tight lid or cover it with plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge. The cake will stay good to eat for up to 5 days.

What to Eat with German Chocolate Poke Cake?

I love combining the caramel soft texture of this German Chocolate Poke Cake with oatmeal cookies without brown sugar, as the cake’s sweetness complements the cookies for a balanced dessert meal, Also I love it with a creamy applesauce shot, which adds a fruity touch to the meal, But also you can enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee for a classic combination, or hot chocolate. You could also serve it alongside a scoop of chocolate ice cream, The cake can be enjoyed alone, and it has a sweet texture that can be enough for you, but pairing it with other desserts and drinks for sure will make the experience better.

FAQ

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

You can use any chocolate cake mix, but the traditional chocolate or chocolate fudge mix works best.

How can I make the cake less sweet?

Reduce the amount of caramel sauce or use a less sweet topping.

What is German Chocolate Poke Cake made of?

German Chocolate Poke Cake is made from chocolate cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, caramel sauce, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and whipped topping.

What does German Chocolate Poke Cake taste like?

It tastes like rich chocolate cake with sweet and creamy caramel, The cake is soft and chocolatey, while the topping adds a nutty and caramel flavor with a bit of crunch.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Yes, Homemade caramel sauce is a great option to use.

What if I don’t like coconut?

You can omit the shredded coconut, I didn’t use it for this recipe.

How should I serve the cake?

Serve the cake chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Poke Cake is an easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Have that good chocolate taste plus the caramel sauce and nuts on top, it’s sure to be a favorite cake after you try it for the first time. Be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more tasty Chocolate cake recipes.