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.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free cake mix is used)
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: German Chocolate Poke Cake, Coconut Pecan Cake, Moist Chocolate Cake, Southern Dessert, Poke Cake, Easy Cake Recipe