Are you craving a dessert that’s rich, gooey, and downright irresistible? Look no further than the German Chocolate Poke Cake! This cake is the perfect blend of moist chocolate, sweet caramel, and a decadent coconut-pecan topping. It’s so good that even non-chocolate lovers will be asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bringing a treat to a potluck, or just indulging your sweet tooth, this cake will steal the show every time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Ingredients Needed
- Chocolate Cake Mix: 1 box of German chocolate cake mix (or any rich chocolate cake mix)
- Eggs: As per cake mix instructions
- Oil and Water: As per cake mix instructions
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 oz)
- Caramel Sauce: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
- Coconut-Pecan Frosting: 1 container (or homemade)
- Chocolate Chips: 1 cup for topping

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake
Let’s get started with the chocolatey base of this amazing poke cake. First, grab your favorite box of German chocolate cake mix. If you don’t have that on hand, any rich chocolate cake mix will work just fine. Follow the package instructions, adding the required eggs, oil, and water. Mix everything together until you get a smooth batter. Pour it into a 9×13 inch baking dish for the perfect cake thickness. Pop it in the oven and bake as directed. Once it’s done, let it cool for about 10 minutes, but not too long – you want it to be warm for the next step.
Step 2: Poke and Fill
Now comes the fun part – poking holes! Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake. Don’t be shy! The more holes, the better the gooey goodness will soak in. Make sure they’re evenly spaced for consistent flavor. Next, pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it seep into all the holes. This is what makes the cake super moist. Then, take the caramel sauce and drizzle it generously on top, spreading it evenly. You can already tell this is going to be delicious!
Step 3: Add the Toppings
It’s time to take this cake to the next level. Spread the coconut-pecan frosting over the caramel layer, making sure every inch is covered. This adds that signature German chocolate flavor. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate chips over the frosting. They’ll add a bit of crunch and extra chocolatey goodness. It’s hard to resist digging in already, but let’s finish strong!

Garnished Final Dish
Your German Chocolate Poke Cake is now ready to serve, and it looks absolutely mouth-watering! To give it an elegant touch, drizzle some extra caramel sauce on top for that picture-perfect finish. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter contrast or sprinkle toasted coconut or chopped pecans for an added crunch. Want to make it even more impressive? Serve it chilled – this allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Get ready for the compliments to roll in because this cake is bound to be a hit at any gathering!

FAQs
Q1: What is a fun fact about German chocolate cake?
Here’s a fun fact: German chocolate cake isn’t actually from Germany! It was named after Samuel German, an American chocolatier who created a special type of dark baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. The cake became popular in the U.S. when a recipe using his chocolate was published in a Texas newspaper in the 1950s. It’s been a classic ever since!
Q2: What is the history of poke cake?
Poke cakes first became popular in the 1970s, thanks to Jell-O’s clever marketing idea. They suggested poking holes in cakes and pouring gelatin over them to make vibrant, flavorful desserts. The concept quickly evolved to include puddings, syrups, and caramel – as seen in this German Chocolate Poke Cake. It’s all about getting that extra moisture and flavor into every bite!
Q3: What is the history of German chocolate cake?
The history of German chocolate cake dates back to 1957 when a recipe for “German’s Chocolate Cake” was published in a Dallas newspaper. The recipe was sent in by a homemaker using Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, which was created by Samuel German. The cake’s unique combination of light chocolate cake with coconut-pecan frosting became an instant hit, and it’s been a beloved American classic ever since.
Q4: Is German chocolate cake the same as Devil’s Food Cake?
Nope, they are different! German chocolate cake is known for its lighter chocolate flavor and the iconic coconut-pecan frosting. On the other hand, Devil’s Food Cake is richer, darker, and more chocolaty, often made with cocoa powder and paired with fudgy frosting. Both are delicious, but they offer completely different flavor experiences. Why not try both and see which one you like better?
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German Chocolate Poke Cake
German Chocolate Poke Cake is a decadent dessert with rich chocolate flavor, gooey caramel, and a luscious coconut-pecan topping. This super moist and easy-to-make cake is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any sweet craving!
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake Mix: 1 box of German chocolate cake mix (or any rich chocolate cake mix)
Eggs: As per cake mix instructions
Oil and Water: As per cake mix instructions
Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 oz)
Caramel Sauce: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
Coconut-Pecan Frosting: 1 container (or homemade)
Chocolate Chips: 1 cup for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Chocolate Cake
- Mix the cake batter according to the package instructions using the eggs, oil, and water.
- Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake as directed.
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
Poke and Fill
- Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, evenly spaced for better soaking.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce on top and spread evenly.
Add the Toppings
- Spread the coconut-pecan frosting over the caramel layer.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips generously on top.
Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set.
- Slice and enjoy this gooey, chocolaty delight!
Notes
This cake is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
For extra elegance, drizzle more caramel sauce before serving.
Feel free to garnish with toasted coconut or chopped pecans for added crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: German Chocolate Poke Cake, Moist Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Caramel Cake, Easy Dessert Recipe, Coconut Pecan Cake