When the craving for something sweet strikes, there’s nothing quite like the rich indulgence of a German Chocolate Poke Cake. The moment you lift a fork and take that first bite, you’ll be enveloped in the luxurious flavors of moist chocolate cake blending beautifully with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience that transports you straight to your grandma’s kitchen, where love was always the secret ingredient.
I whipped up this moist masterpiece on a rainy afternoon when I needed a lift, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise. The poke cake method is a game-changer, allowing the frosting to seep into each delightful crevice, ensuring every mouthful is a perfect balance of sweet and nutty. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself on a cozy night in, this cake is bound to impress friends and family alike. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this decadent dessert that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories!
Why is German Chocolate Poke Cake unforgettable?
Irresistible Moisture: Each bite offers a soft, tender crumb that’s impossible to resist.
Delectable Frosting: The creamy coconut-pecan frosting adds a rich, nutty flavor that captures your taste buds.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a quiet night in, this cake fits all moods.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: It’s guaranteed to become a favorite among friends and family; who doesn’t love a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious?
Easy Preparation: This recipe simplifies your baking, making it an approachable choice for bakers of all levels.
Nostalgic Appeal: It brings back memories of homemade desserts from childhood, creating a warm and fuzzy feeling with every slice.
German Chocolate Poke Cake Ingredients
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For the Cake
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
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Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; can replace with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
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Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Contributes a rich chocolate flavor; ensure it’s high-quality for best results.
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Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for rising; check for freshness for effective results.
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Baking Soda – Provides additional lift in the cake.
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Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the cake.
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Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; for an egg-free version, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
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Buttermilk – Adds moisture and acidity for a tender crumb; substitute with milk mixed with 1 tbsp vinegar.
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Vegetable Oil – Provides moisture and richness; can use melted coconut oil for added flavor.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
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Boiling Water – Hydrates the batter, making it thin for a moist cake texture.
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For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting
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Granulated Sugar – Base for the frosting’s sweetness.
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Evaporated Milk – Creates a creamy texture for the frosting.
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Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; always use unsalted for better control over salty flavors.
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Large Egg Yolks – Thickens the frosting; avoid using whole eggs for ideal consistency.
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Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor of the frosting.
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Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Provides delightful texture and flavor.
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Chopped Pecans – Adds crunch; can be replaced with walnuts or omitted for a nut-free version.
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Topping (Optional)
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Whipped Cream or Cool Whip – Adds a light, creamy texture on top of the cake.
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Additional Pecans or Coconut – Enhances the presentation and flavor of the cake.
With these ingredients ready, you’re on your way to crafting a delightful German Chocolate Poke Cake that will leave everyone craving more!
How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake
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Preheat Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to prepare a greased and floured 9×13-inch baking pan, so your cake doesn’t stick!
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Make Chocolate Cake: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Add in the large eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together for about 2 minutes until well blended. Carefully stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin, but that’s just how we want it!
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Bake: Pour the chocolate cake batter into your prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
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Prepare Frosting: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and egg yolks. Cook this mixture while stirring constantly for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let it cool slightly.
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Poke the Cake: Once your cake has cooled for 10 minutes, take a spoon handle or fork and poke holes all over the top of it. This step allows the delicious frosting to seep in!
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Frost: Carefully pour the warm coconut-pecan frosting over the cake, making sure to let it seep into all the holes you poked. Allow your gorgeous cake to cool completely to set the frosting.
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Serve: Once cooled, slice your cake and serve it. You can optionally top it with whipped cream or Cool Whip and garnish with extra pecans or coconut for that perfect finish!
Optional: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle chocolate sauce over each slice before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best German Chocolate Poke Cake
Beat Thoroughly: Ensure to mix the cake batter well for a light and fluffy texture, avoiding dense cake.
Check Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and soda for the best rise; expired ingredients can lead to disappointing results.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before pouring the warm frosting, preventing it from sliding off the cake.
Perfectly Poked: Poke holes deep enough for the frosting to seep in, ensuring that every bite is infused with that delicious coconut-pecan flavor.
Quality Cocoa: Always opt for high-quality cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate flavor in your German Chocolate Poke Cake.
Topping Ideas: Get creative with toppings! Whipped cream or additional coconut and pecans can elevate presentation and taste.
What to Serve with German Chocolate Poke Cake?
When you’re celebrating with a slice of this decadent cake, think of complementary dishes and drinks that will elevate your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast enhances the chocolate richness while balancing the warm frosting. A classic pairing that’s always a hit!
- Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or tart raspberries add a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness, creating a delightful flavor combination.
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee serves as the perfect accompaniment, enhancing those chocolate notes and providing a cozy finishing touch.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light, airy texture that draws out even more sweetness in every bite.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm chocolate sauce over the cake creates an indulgent double-chocolate experience that’s simply irresistible.
- Coconut Macaroons: For coconut lovers, these chewy bites enhance the cake’s flavors, offering a delightful and blissfully textured experience.
- Nutty Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscotti complements the soft cake beautifully, providing an interesting contrast to enjoy with your dessert.
- Milkshake: A rich milkshake with chocolate and coconut flavors ties nicely with every element of the cake, promising a sweet symphony.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful German Chocolate Poke Cakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a rich dessert without the last-minute rush! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to cool it completely before poking holes in it and pouring the frosting. The coconut-pecan frosting can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before spreading over the cake to ensure it remains just as gooey and delicious. When ready to serve, simply slice and garnish with whipped cream or additional coconut and pecans for a beautiful presentation. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a perfect dessert ready to impress!
German Chocolate Poke Cake Variations
Get creative and personalize your cake with these delightful twists that elevate your favorite dessert!
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans entirely for a nut-free version, or replace them with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch.
- Coconut Cream: Instead of using evaporated milk in the frosting, substitute with coconut cream for a richer coconut flavor.
- Sugar-Free: Explore using a sugar alternative like erythritol or monk fruit for a low-sugar dessert without sacrificing taste.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the cake batter for bursts of melting chocolate, enhancing every bite of your poke cake.
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the frosting mixture before it sets for a decadent caramel-coconut-pecan experience.
- Fruity Upgrade: Fold in crushed pineapple with the frosting for a tropical twist that beautifully contrasts the chocolate.
- Spiced Delight: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
- Coffee Infusion: Stir in a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder into the boiling water for a mocha flavor that elevates the chocolate richness.
These variations not only make it fun to experiment but also ensure that each bite is a unique adventure in flavor!
Storage Tips for German Chocolate Poke Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days if consuming within a short timeframe.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This helps retain the moisture and flavor of the coconut-pecan frosting.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover portions, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and, if desired, warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring the delicious moistness of the German Chocolate Poke Cake is maintained.
German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for the best German Chocolate Poke Cake?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder and use fresh baking powder and baking soda. Look for eggs that are large and fresh, and be mindful when selecting your all-purpose flour – consider gluten-free flour if needed.
How should I store leftover German Chocolate Poke Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Remember, always let it cool completely before storing to maintain its moist texture!
Can I freeze German Chocolate Poke Cake?
Definitely! To freeze, cut the cake into individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What if the coconut-pecan frosting is too runny?
If your frosting seems too runny, it might not have cooked long enough. After combining your ingredients in the saucepan, make sure to cook and stir constantly for about 10 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency. If you find that it’s still too thin, you can add a bit more shredded coconut to help it set up.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! Some friends might have nut allergies; consider omitting the pecans for a nut-free version of this cake. Additionally, to make it egg-free, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs — simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
How can I ensure my German Chocolate Poke Cake turns out perfectly?
Great question! Start by carefully following the mixing instructions; beat the batter for the full 2 minutes for optimal fluffiness. It’s also crucial to poke enough holes after baking so the frosting seeps in thoroughly, giving you that delightful flavor in every bite. Remember to use warm frosting to maximize absorption as well!
German Chocolate Poke Cake: Moist, Gooey Bliss Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Add the large eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat for about 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water carefully.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and egg yolks. Cook while stirring for about 10 minutes until thick and creamy. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let it cool slightly.
- Poke holes in the cooled cake with a spoon handle. Pour the warm frosting over it, allowing it to seep in.
- Cool completely before slicing and serving. Optionally top with whipped cream and garnish with extra pecans or coconut.