German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

Introduction

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a moist and decadent treat that combines rich chocolate with a luscious coconut-pecan filling. The unique poke cake method creates a dessert that’s both flavorful and irresistibly soft. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup chocolate frosting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until evenly combined.
3. Step 3: Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
4. Step 4: Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter becomes thin and smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan evenly.
5. Step 5: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before proceeding.
6. Step 6: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
7. Step 7: In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
8. Step 8: Allow the cake to cool completely. Once cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
9. Step 9: Serve the cake at room temperature or chilled, according to your preference.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the shredded coconut and pecans lightly before mixing them into the sweetened condensed milk.
• Substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
• Try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter to deepen the chocolate flavor.
• If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar slightly or use a dark chocolate frosting.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, let it come to room temperature or enjoy it chilled directly. This cake also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting or serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% or even plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, but whole milk helps keep the cake moist and flavorful.

Why is the batter so thin?

The boiling water thins the batter to ensure the cake remains moist and light. This is a common characteristic in many chocolate cake recipes and produces a tender crumb.

German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 61 reviews

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a moist and rich chocolate dessert featuring a delicate cocoa-infused cake base with holes poked throughout to hold a luscious mixture of sweetened condensed milk, coconut, and pecans. Topped with creamy chocolate frosting, this cake combines textures and flavors for an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Topping Ingredients

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup chocolate frosting

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: To the dry mixture, add the whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is thin and smooth. This step helps create a moist cake texture.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
6. Make Holes in Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. These holes will allow the topping mixture to soak into the cake.
7. Prepare Topping and Pour: In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the poked holes.
8. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely to allow the topping mixture to absorb well and the cake to set properly.
9. Frost the Cake: Once cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
10. Serve: Serve the cake at room temperature or chilled as preferred. Enjoy your moist and flavorful German Chocolate Poke Cake!

Notes

• The boiling water thins the batter and intensifies the cocoa flavor, resulting in a moister cake.
• Make sure the cake is warm when you poke holes; this helps the topping soak in better.
• Letting the cake cool completely before frosting prevents the frosting from melting.
• Use good quality chocolate frosting for the best flavor and texture.
• Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Keywords: German Chocolate Poke Cake, chocolate poke cake, coconut pecan cake, moist chocolate cake, chocolate pudding cake