German Chocolate Poke Cake: A Gooey, Sweet Shortcut to Dessert Heaven
If you love chocolate, coconut, and all things gooey and indulgent, you’re going to be obsessed with this German Chocolate Poke Cake. It starts with a box of chocolate cake mix, but don’t let that fool you—this dessert ends up tasting like something you’d get from a bakery.
With sweetened condensed milk seeping into the cake’s crumb, warm coconut pecan frosting melting across the surface, and a final drizzle of melted chocolate, this cake delivers flavor and texture in every single bite.
Why I Love This Recipe
This cake checks every dessert box: it’s moist, creamy, crunchy, sweet, and deeply chocolatey. It’s also incredibly easy to put together, thanks to a few smart shortcuts. Plus, you can make it ahead of time—it tastes even better after it sits in the fridge for a few hours (or overnight!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- Ingredients required for cake mix (typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar coconut pecan frosting
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Cake Mix: Use any rich chocolate cake mix—devil’s food or fudge cake work beautifully.
- Frosting: You can make homemade coconut pecan frosting, but the jarred version works great for ease.
- Add-Ins: Swap pecans with walnuts, or toast the coconut and nuts before topping for added flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Semi-sweet chips are ideal, but milk or dark chocolate work just as well.
How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake
1. Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and bake. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
2. Poke and Pour
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
3. Spread the Frosting
Warm the jar of coconut pecan frosting in the microwave for about 30 seconds—just until spreadable. Spread it evenly over the cake while it’s still warm.
4. Add the Drizzle
In a small bowl, microwave the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. Drizzle the chocolate over the cake.
5. Top It Off
Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans evenly across the top for crunch and contrast.
6. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing. Serve chilled for the ultimate gooey experience.
Tips for Success
- Poke deep holes: The deeper the holes, the more filling the cake will soak up.
- Warm frosting slightly: It spreads better and seeps into the cake more evenly.
- Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the tip cut off for an easy chocolate drizzle.
- Make ahead: This cake is even better the next day after the flavors meld in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this rich cake with light, contrasting options for a balanced dessert spread:
- Pair with a refreshing drink like Blueberry Lemonade to cut the richness.
- Add fun bite-sized options like Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites or Old-School No-Bake Cookies for variety.
- For even more chocolatey bliss, try a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of Brownie Batter Dip on the side.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Make-Ahead: Bake and assemble the cake the day before and let it chill overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended after the condensed milk and frosting are added, as it may change texture.
More Chocolate Desserts You’ll Love
If you loved this cake, check out these other chocolate-forward favorites:
- The Best Peanut Butter Brownies
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
- Old-School No-Bake Cookies
- Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
- Brownie Batter Dip
Final Thoughts
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that feels fancy but takes minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, holiday gathering, or weeknight sweet fix, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Let us know how it turns out and tag @chefmaniac when you make it! Got a twist or topping idea? Share it with us—we’re always down for more chocolate inspiration.
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