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German Chocolate Poke Cake
Caroline

German Chocolate Poke Cake

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a decadent dessert made with a moist chocolate cake, filled with sweetened condensed milk and caramel, topped with a coconut-pecan layer and rich chocolate ganache. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or whenever you crave something indulgent.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (such as Devil’s Food)
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup caramel sauce
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 3/4 cup chopped pecans (toasted if preferred)
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • mixing bowls
  • saucepan
  • wooden spoon (for poking holes)
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes.
  2. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the cake. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk into the holes, letting it soak through.
  3. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the surface.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter, then stir in the coconut and chopped pecans. Cook until warm, then spread the mixture evenly over the cake.
  5. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2–3 minutes. Stir until smooth, then mix in vanilla extract.
  6. Spread the ganache evenly over the coconut-pecan layer. Sprinkle with extra pecans or chocolate chips if desired.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • This cake is rich, so small slices go a long way.
  • You can double the recipe for larger gatherings.
  • For best results, let the cake chill overnight.