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German Chocolate Poke Cake

German Chocolate Poke Cake

A rich and moist German Chocolate Poke Cake infused with a creamy coconut and pecan filling. This classic dessert features a decadent chocolate cake base pierced with holes to soak in a luscious coconut-pecan custard, creating a perfect balance of chocolate, nutty, and sweet flavors. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this easy-to-make recipe promises indulgent bites and customizable options for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade equivalent)

Coconut-Pecan Filling

  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Frosting

  • Cream cheese frosting or whipped frosting, as desired

Instructions

  1. Bake the Chocolate Cake: Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the box instructions or your homemade recipe. Pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.
  2. Create the Poke Holes: When the cake is warm but not hot, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes evenly all over the surface. These holes allow the filling to soak deeply into the cake for maximum flavor and moisture.
  3. Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Filling: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and egg yolks. Stir constantly and cook the mixture until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency, ensuring it does not burn or curdle.
  4. Pour Filling Over Cake: Slowly pour the warm coconut-pecan filling evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the poke holes. Use a spatula to spread the filling across the entire surface.
  5. Chill and Optional Frosting: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to let the filling set and meld with the cake. Before serving, optionally frost the top with cream cheese or whipped frosting for added richness.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs to ensure even cooking and proper thickening of the filling.
  • Do not poke too aggressively; holes should be deep but not break the cake apart.
  • Stir the filling constantly while cooking to prevent burning or curdling.
  • Allow the cake to cool until warm, not hot, before pouring the filling for optimal absorption.
  • Chill the cake thoroughly to improve texture and flavor fusion.

Nutrition

Keywords: German Chocolate Poke Cake, Coconut Pecan Cake, Moist Chocolate Cake, Southern Dessert, Poke Cake, Easy Cake Recipe