Description

If you're craving a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the best of chocolate, coconut, and pecans, look no further than this German Chocolate Poke Cake! It’s the perfect mix of moist chocolate cake, creamy coconut filling, and a luscious ganache topping. This cake is simple to prepare, yet it will impress everyone at your table with its deep, layered flavors.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 1 box dark chocolate fudge cake mix
• 1 (3.4 oz) box chocolate fudge instant pudding
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Filling:
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• For the Ganache:
• 4 oz chopped chocolate
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• For the Frosting:
• 1 can coconut pecan frosting

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark chocolate fudge cake mix, chocolate fudge pudding, eggs, yogurt, vegetable oil, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth, following the instructions on the cake mix box for consistency.

2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

3. Make the Poke Cake: Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to make holes all over the cake (poke the cake about 2 inches apart). Make sure the holes are deep but not through to the bottom of the pan. This step will allow the sweetened condensed milk to soak into the cake, making it extra moist.

4. Add the Filling: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk over the cake, making sure it fills the holes and soaks into the cake. Use a spoon to gently spread it if needed. Let the cake sit for about 20-30 minutes to fully absorb the milk.

5. Prepare the Ganache: While the cake soaks up the condensed milk, make the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not let it boil). Pour the chopped chocolate into a heatproof bowl and pour the hot cream over it. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

6. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the coconut pecan frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Then, drizzle the chocolate ganache over the frosting, allowing it to drip down the sides of the cake.

7. Serve and Enjoy: For the best flavor, refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Slice and serve chilled for a perfect balance of rich chocolate, sweet filling, and creamy coconut.

Tips and Conclusion

Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day ahead of time! It only gets better after resting in the fridge, so it’s a great dessert to prepare the night before a party or family gathering.

Customizations: If you prefer, you can add extra chopped pecans to the frosting or sprinkle them over the ganache for an added crunch.

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This cake is great for snacking and tastes even better the next day!

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining layers of creamy chocolate goodness with a rich, coconut-pecan topping. It’s easy to make, incredibly moist, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, a holiday gathering, or just a special treat, it’s sure to be a hit. Try this cake and enjoy a taste of luxury right at home!