Name: German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
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

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 81 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate with a luscious coconut and pecan topping, you have to try this German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe. It takes all the good things from the classic German chocolate cake and transforms them into a moist, gooey, and utterly irresistible treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The secret? Poking holes in the warm cake so that a creamy, coconut-pecan mixture seeps right in, creating layers of flavor and moisture that make this cake stand out at any gathering. Trust me, once you taste this version, you’ll never want to go back to ordinary chocolate cake!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a three-layered dessert slice on a white plate with a dark edge. The bottom layer is dark brown with a dense, crumbly texture like chocolate cake. The middle layer is light golden brown, appearing moist and sticky with bits of nuts or coconut. The top layer is a smooth, glossy milk chocolate coating with several dark chocolate chunks and drops scattered on top. The background has a white marbled texture, and soft lighting highlights the shiny chocolate and moist layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a truly decadent dessert. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s building the cake’s light structure, adding a rich chocolate flavor, or contributing to the creamy, nutty topping that makes this cake so special.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, giving it structure while keeping it tender.
2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the cocoa’s bitterness and adds moisture.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for a light crumb.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with acidic ingredients to create lift and softness.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings that deep, chocolaty richness that chocolate lovers crave.
1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture for a tender bite.
½ cup vegetable oil: Ensures the cake stays moist and delicate for days.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Lifts and rounds out the flavor profile.
1 cup boiling water: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and keeps the batter silky smooth.
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut: Classic ingredient for that authentic German chocolate texture and sweetness.
1 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunchy texture and a toasty, nutty note that complements the cake perfectly.
1 cup sweetened condensed milk: Creates the moist, gooey topping that soaks into the cake’s holes.
1 cup chocolate frosting: The finishing touch, adding creamy decadence on top.

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure your cake comes out perfectly without sticking. This step might seem simple, but it’s essential for a smooth baking experience and pristine slices.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Getting these combined evenly sets the stage for a perfectly uniform chocolate cake that bakes evenly throughout.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To your dry mixture, add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well incorporated. At this point, your kitchen will start to smell like chocolate heaven.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water. This thins the batter out dramatically, but don’t worry—that’s exactly what makes the cake super moist and tender. Pour this delicate batter into your prepared pan.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, just enough to handle the next step without burning your fingers.

Step 6: Poke and Pour the Coconut-Pecan Mixture

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the top of the warm cake—don’t be shy, make plenty of holes! In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the entire cake, allowing it to seep deep into the holes. This is where that signature moist, rich texture comes into play.

Step 7: Cool and Frost

Let the cake cool completely so the topping sets nicely. Once cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly across the surface for an indulgent finishing touch that ties all the flavors together wonderfully.

How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate your German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe presentation, sprinkle some extra toasted pecans or a handful of shredded coconut on top of the frosting. Fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a beautiful contrast and a little zing.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. If you’re serving it at a party, consider a simple fresh fruit salad for a refreshing palate cleanser to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into small squares and serving it in little dessert cups layered with whipped cream or pudding for a fun twist. Or take it to the next level by warming slices slightly and drizzling caramel or chocolate sauce on top just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe is best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so this cake tastes fantastic even as leftovers.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or until just heated through. This brings back some of the gooey, fresh-baked feel without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts in this German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute walnuts or almonds depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Each nut will give a slightly different but delicious flavor and texture.

Is it necessary to use boiling water in the cake batter?

Yes, the boiling water intensifies the chocolate flavor and helps dissolve the cocoa powder completely, resulting in a smoother, richer cake texture. It’s a crucial step for achieving that moist crumb.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that is meant for one-to-one substitution. Just ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture might slightly differ but the flavor will still shine.

What frosting works best for this poke cake?

A rich chocolate frosting complements this poke cake beautifully. You can use store-bought or homemade chocolate frosting—just make sure it’s creamy and spreadable for the best results.

How far in advance can I make the German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe?

This cake can be made a day ahead, which actually enhances its flavor and moisture. Just store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge and frost right before serving or immediately after it has fully cooled.

Final Thoughts

This German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe holds a very special place in my heart because it’s the perfect balance of classic flavors and fun technique that truly impresses without any stress. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because you deserve a treat, this cake delivers on all fronts—moist, rich, nutty, and utterly comforting. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the love with someone special!