If you’re a lover of all things chocolate, caramel, and coconut, then German Chocolate Poke Cake is an absolute must-try. Imagine a classic chocolate cake turned up a few delicious notches with sweetened condensed milk and caramel poured into every forkful, then finished with clouds of whipped topping, crunchy pecans, toasty coconut, and (if you really want to go all out) a shower of mini chocolate chips. This easy dessert checks every box: it’s simple, impressively decadent, and guaranteed to be the star at any gathering.

German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This German Chocolate Poke Cake builds magic from a handful of pantry staples and classic toppings. Each ingredient brings something essential—whether it’s richness, sweetness, texture, or a pop of indulgence—to the cake’s unforgettable flavor and irresistible appearance.

German chocolate cake mix: The perfect shortcut for moist, chocolatey cake with that signature mild cocoa flavor.
Eggs, oil, and water (as specified on cake mix box): These basics bring the cake mix to life with a tender crumb.
Sweetened condensed milk (14-ounce can): This soaks into the cake, adding luscious sweetness and a supremely moist texture.
Caramel sauce (1 cup): A generous drizzle infuses every bite with rich, buttery notes.
Sweetened shredded coconut (1 cup): For a classic finishing touch, adding both sweetness and chew.
Chopped pecans (1 cup): They bring crunch and a nutty warmth that’s essential for that classic German chocolate vibe.
Whipped topping (8-ounce tub, like Cool Whip): Light, fluffy, and simple—a sweet veil that ties everything together.
Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): For that extra pop of chocolate flavor, they make the top look absolutely irresistible.

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing your favorite 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix up the German chocolate cake batter just as the box instructs, using eggs, oil, and water. Pour it into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean. This first step is all about getting that dreamy, chocolatey base just right.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

When your cake finishes baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes—just enough so it isn’t piping hot. Then comes the fun: using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about an inch apart. These little wells are going to catch all the good stuff and make every bite incredibly moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Pour on Sweetened Condensed Milk and Caramel

With the cake still warm, slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the entire cake, letting it seep into the holes like molten treasure. Next, pour the caramel sauce evenly over the top. This dynamic duo soaks in, turning your cake into a ooey-gooey masterpiece.

Step 4: Cool the Cake Completely

Patience pays off—let the cake cool all the way to room temperature. This ensures the fillings settle and the cake holds its shape when you add toppings. It’s the perfect time to toast pecans and coconut, if you want to add even more flavor and crunch (just pop them on a baking sheet in a low oven for a few minutes).

Step 5: Add the Whipped Topping and Layer on the Goodness

Once your German Chocolate Poke Cake is cool, gently spread the whipped topping across the surface. Next, sprinkle on the coconut, chopped pecans, and those mini chocolate chips if you’re using them. Each layer adds its unique texture and flavor, making the finished cake a sensory delight.

Step 6: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld

Pop the cake into the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This step lets all the flavors mingle, the filling set, and makes it much easier to slice into neat, beautiful servings. Bonus: it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for those busy days!

How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake

Garnishes

Dress up your cake slices even more with extra caramel drizzle or a flourish of chocolate shavings. A simple fresh cherry on top or a sprinkle of toasted coconut can make every piece look bakery-worthy and festive.

Side Dishes

German Chocolate Poke Cake is already rich, but pairing it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances out the sweetness and adds a refreshing contrast in both flavor and temperature.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try serving squares of this cake in small jars or clear cups to show off the luscious layers. Or, cut into small bars and serve as finger-friendly treats at your next potluck or picnic. A drizzle of warm caramel over each piece right before serving is a guaranteed showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any remaining German Chocolate Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator. Thanks to the moist filling, it actually gets better as it sits, melding flavors for up to four days without losing its magic.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze part (or all) of your cake, tightly wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep well for about a month. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and top with fresh whipped topping, coconut, and pecans before serving for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

This cake is meant to be enjoyed chilled (and it’s pretty delightful that way), but if you love a warm touch, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The caramel and chocolate will soften and turn extra gooey—just add whipped topping after heating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of box mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite German chocolate cake recipe, feel free to use it. The box mix just makes things extra quick and easy, but homemade will add a beautiful personal touch.

Do I need to toast the coconut and pecans?

Toasting is totally optional, but it really brings out the nutty and toasty flavors. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet or oven will make a noticeable difference in both taste and aroma.

Can I make German Chocolate Poke Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is even better when made several hours ahead or the day before serving. The filling soaks in and the flavors mingle, giving you an extra-moist, dreamy dessert with minimal last-minute fuss.

Is there a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

Semi-sweet coconut cream or dulce de leche could work, but sweetened condensed milk is really the classic choice for its thickness and sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using a thick coconut sweetened condensed milk.

Can I make this cake nut-free?

Absolutely! Simply skip the pecans or swap them for toasted sunflower seeds or extra coconut flakes. The cake will still be delicious and satisfying for everyone at the table.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something spectacularly decadent and easy to share, I truly hope you give this German Chocolate Poke Cake a spot in your kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that wows at parties, soothes a weeknight craving, and guarantees happy faces all around. Go ahead and treat yourself—you’re going to love every last bite!

German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes plus chilling time
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the decadent delight of German Chocolate Poke Cake. This dessert features a moist German chocolate cake soaked in sweetened condensed milk and caramel, topped with a luscious layer of whipped cream, coconut, pecans, and mini chocolate chips. A true crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

Cake:

1 box German chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)

Toppings:

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup caramel sauce
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the cake: Prepare and bake the German chocolate cake mix as per package instructions.
Poke the cake: While warm, poke holes all over the cake using a wooden spoon handle.
Add toppings: Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, then drizzle with caramel sauce. Let the cake cool.
Top and chill: Spread whipped topping over the cake, then sprinkle with coconut, pecans, and chocolate chips. Chill before serving.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, toast the coconut and pecans before adding them to the cake.
Customize with homemade caramel sauce or whipped cream if desired.
Store covered in the refrigerator for freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American