Description: A moist and decadent German Chocolate Poke Cake featuring a rich chocolate cake base, soaked with sweetened condensed milk and caramel, topped with a creamy coconut-pecan frosting. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce, divided (reserve 1/2 cup for frosting)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
Preparation:
Before you even think about mixing ingredients, let’s get everything in order. This is called mise en place in the culinary world, and it’s essential for a smooth baking experience. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The oven needs to be at the right temperature for the cake to rise properly and bake evenly. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly. You can use cooking spray, butter, or shortening to grease the pan. Make sure to get into all the corners and edges to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. It’s best to use a large bowl to prevent splattering as you mix. A stand mixer or hand mixer will make this process easier, but you can also use a whisk.
Step 2: Beat the mixture until it is well combined. If using a mixer, start on low speed to prevent the dry ingredients from flying out. Gradually increase the speed to medium and beat for 2-3 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and there are no lumps.
Step 3: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This ensures that the cake bakes uniformly and doesn’t have any thick or thin spots.
Step 4: Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking the cake at 30 minutes and insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again. Once the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
Step 5: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the cake to firm up slightly before you poke the holes. If you poke the holes while the cake is too hot, it may crumble.
Step 6: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 cup of caramel sauce. Whisk the mixture together until it is well combined and smooth. The caramel sauce adds extra flavor and richness to the soaking mixture.
Step 7: Using the end of a wooden spoon or a chopstick, poke holes into the cake at 1-inch intervals. The holes should go almost all the way through the cake but not puncture the bottom. The closer the holes, the more evenly the cake will absorb the caramel mixture.
Step 8: Pour the caramel sauce mixture over the cake, making sure to spread it evenly so that it seeps into all the holes. Use a spatula to gently spread the mixture across the surface of the cake.
Step 9: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it is creamy. This is best done with a stand mixer or hand mixer. The butter needs to be at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 10: Gradually add in the powdered sugar, milk, and remaining 1/2 cup of caramel sauce, mixing until smooth and creamy. Start with the mixer on low speed to prevent the powdered sugar from flying out. Gradually increase the speed to medium and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 11: Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut. Use a spatula to gently fold the nuts and coconut into the frosting until they are evenly distributed.
Step 12: Spread the frosting over the cake, making sure to cover it completely. A smooth and even layer of frosting will make the cake look more appealing.
Step 13: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the frosting to set.
Step 14: Enjoy your delicious German Chocolate Poke Cake!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. Using a cake mix as the base simplifies the process, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time. Despite its simplicity, the cake is packed with flavor. The combination of German chocolate cake, sweet caramel, and creamy coconut-pecan frosting is irresistible. The poke cake method ensures that every bite is moist and infused with delicious caramel flavor. The texture is also delightful, with the soft cake, crunchy pecans, and chewy coconut creating a wonderful contrast. It’s a guaranteed hit at parties, potlucks, or any gathering where you need a show-stopping dessert. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and chilled, making it even more convenient.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cake chilled for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut the cake into squares and arrange them on a platter.
- Garnish with extra chopped pecans and shredded coconut for a more festive presentation.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Tips:
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy frosting.
- Don’t overbake the cake, as it will dry out. Check it frequently with a toothpick.
- Use a good-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor. Homemade caramel sauce would be fantastic.
- If you don’t have pecans, you can substitute walnuts or other nuts of your choice.
- For a more intense coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet until golden brown before adding it to the frosting.
- If you don’t have German chocolate cake mix, you can use regular chocolate cake mix and add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of pecans and coconut to your preference.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
Conclusion
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Its moist, flavorful, and easy-to-make nature makes it a perfect choice for any occasion. The combination of German chocolate cake, caramel-soaked goodness, and coconut-pecan frosting is simply divine. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a slice of heaven. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
- Question 1: Can I use a different type of cake mix?
- Answer: While German chocolate cake mix provides the most authentic flavor, you can certainly experiment with other cake mixes. Chocolate cake mix would be a good substitute, or even a yellow cake mix if you prefer a lighter flavor profile. Keep in mind that the flavor of the cake will change accordingly.
- Question 2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Answer: Absolutely! In fact, this cake is even better when made ahead of time. The chilling process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dessert. You can make the cake up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Question 3: What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
- Answer: Sweetened condensed milk is crucial for the poke cake element of this recipe, as it soaks into the cake and provides moisture and sweetness. Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct substitute. You’ll need to use sweetened condensed milk to achieve the desired result.
- Question 4: Can I freeze this cake?
- Answer: Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Question 5: Can I use a different type of nuts?
- Answer: Of course! While pecans are traditional in German chocolate cake, you can easily substitute them with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts. Choose your favorite nuts or a combination of different types to add your personal touch to the recipe.
