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The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake

The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake

The Best German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, moist chocolate dessert that combines luscious chocolate cake with a creamy coconut-pecan filling. Holes poked through the warm cake allow the decadent filling to seep deep inside, creating irresistible pockets of southern-inspired flavors in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this cake balances chocolate, toasted coconut, and sweet pecans in a nostalgic and indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Cake Base

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake batter)

Coconut-Pecan Filling

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted or raw)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Bake the Chocolate Cake: Preheat your oven and grease a cake pan thoroughly. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions or your favorite recipe. Pour the batter into the pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be moist but firm to hold the filling without collapsing.
  2. Poke the Cake: Remove the warm cake from the oven and, while still warm, gently poke holes evenly across the surface using the back of a wooden spoon or a large skewer. These holes allow the filling to seep deeply into the cake layers.
  3. Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent curdling. Once the mixture begins to thicken and becomes creamy, remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans until fully combined.
  4. Pour the Filling Over the Cake: Slowly drizzle the warm coconut-pecan filling evenly over the cake surface, making sure it settles into every hole. This step infuses the cake with extraordinary moisture and flavor.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours to let the filling fully set and the flavors meld beautifully. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with toasted coconut flakes, extra chopped pecans, whipped cream, or powdered sugar.

Notes

  • Use fresh eggs and high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
  • Mix the cake batter gently to keep it light and airy, which helps absorb the filling better.
  • Space the pokes evenly for uniform filling distribution.
  • Cook the filling gently while stirring constantly to avoid curdling the custard.
  • Refrigerate the cake completely before serving for cleaner slices and intensified flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: German chocolate poke cake, coconut pecan cake, chocolate poke cake, southern dessert, moist chocolate cake, coconut pecan filling