Heavenly German Chocolate Poke Cake is a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of German chocolate cake with a delightful caramel and coconut topping. Next, we’ll explore the ingredients needed to make this delicious dessert.
INGREDIENTS
- German chocolate cake mix: 1 box, for the cake base.
- Ingredients as called for on the cake mix box: Typically includes eggs, oil, and water.
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 can (14 oz), to add a luscious sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- Caramel topping: 1 jar (12 oz), for drizzling over the cake and enhancing its flavor.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: 1 cup, to add texture and a classic German chocolate cake taste.
- Chopped pecans: 1 cup, for a nutty crunch.
- Chocolate chips: 1 cup, for a rich chocolate layer.
- Cool Whip or whipped topping: 1 container (8 oz), for a creamy finish.
- Additional caramel topping: For drizzling over the cake as a final touch.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prepare it for the cake.
- Step 2:
- Follow the instructions on the German chocolate cake mix box. Combine the cake mix with the required ingredients (usually eggs, oil, and water) and mix until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven according to the cake mix package instructions, usually about 25-30 minutes.
- Step 4:
- After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, take the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Step 5:
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Next, evenly pour the caramel topping over the cake, spreading it so that it covers the surface.
- Step 6:
- In a small bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
- Step 7:
- Let the cake cool completely. Once cooled, spread the Cool Whip or whipped topping evenly over the entire cake.
- Step 8:
- Drizzle additional caramel topping over the whipped topping for extra flavor and decoration.
- Step 9:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let all the flavors meld together and to make it easier to cut and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Heavenly German Chocolate Poke Cake chilled for the best flavor. The caramel, coconut, and chocolate topping pairs perfectly when the cake is cool and moist.
- For an extra special touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the cake even more delicious.
- This cake is perfect for parties or gatherings as it can be made ahead and kept in the fridge until ready to serve.
Helpful Notes
- For a twist, try adding a layer of chopped toffee bits or crushed chocolate cookies on top for extra texture.
- If you prefer homemade whipped cream, you can substitute it for Cool Whip by whipping heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form.
- To make the cake extra moist, let it sit overnight in the fridge, allowing the condensed milk and caramel to fully soak into the cake.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests toasting the coconut and pecans for a few minutes to enhance their flavors before sprinkling them over the cake.
- Chef Duff Goldman recommends using a fork instead of a spoon to poke the cake if you prefer smaller holes for a more even distribution of caramel.
- Chef Martha Stewart advises adding a dash of sea salt to the caramel topping for a sweet and salty balance.