German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, moist, and chocolatey cakes with a unique twist, this German Chocolate Poke Cake is for you! Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake brings together the best elements of a classic German chocolate cake with a fun “poke” element that enhances its flavor and texture. This recipe is easy to follow and will guide you step-by-step to create a mouthwatering dessert that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this decadent cake recipe!

Ingredients Overview

Creating the perfect German Chocolate Poke Cake begins with gathering all the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

For the Ganache:

• 4 oz chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Frosting:

• 1 can coconut pecan frosting

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To ensure a smooth baking process, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Wooden spoon handle (for poking holes)
• Saucepan
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these steps to create a perfectly moist and flavorful German Chocolate Poke Cake:

1. Preparing the Cake Batter: The Secret to Moist Chocolate Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, chocolate pudding, eggs, yogurt, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until they are well combined and smooth. The mixture should have a thick, creamy consistency, which helps in achieving a moist cake.

2. Baking the Cake to Perfection

Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Remove the cake from the oven and, while it’s still hot, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake. These holes will allow the filling to seep in, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.

3. Creating the Perfect Filling: Sweetened Condensed Milk

Immediately after poking holes, pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the hot cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. This step is crucial as it adds an irresistible creamy texture and extra moisture to the cake. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.

4. Making the Ganache: The Ultimate Chocolate Topping

While the cake is cooling, prepare the ganache. Place the chopped chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to bubble around the edges. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Allow the ganache to thicken slightly for about 5 to 10 minutes before spreading it over the cooled cake.

5. Assembling the Cake: Layering for Maximum Flavor

Once the ganache has been spread evenly over the cake, top it with a generous layer of coconut pecan frosting. The combination of creamy ganache and sweet, nutty frosting creates a delightful texture and flavor contrast that makes this cake truly special.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Poke Cakes

• Overbaking the Cake: Ensure you check the cake around the 30-minute mark. Overbaking can make it dry and less able to absorb the filling.
• Not Poking Enough Holes: To get the filling evenly distributed, make sure to poke plenty of holes and space them evenly.
• Pouring Cold Filling: Make sure the sweetened condensed milk is at room temperature to allow it to seep into the holes easily.

Tips for Making a Perfectly Smooth Ganache

• Use High-Quality Chocolate: A good-quality chocolate bar will melt more smoothly and provide a richer flavor.
• Don’t Overheat the Cream: Only heat the cream until it just begins to simmer; boiling cream can cause the ganache to separate.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

To present your German Chocolate Poke Cake beautifully:

• Cut the cake into neat squares and place them on a decorative platter.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a few chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut-Free Version: Replace the coconut pecan frosting with chocolate buttercream for a nut-free option.
• Different Cake Mixes: Try using a devil’s food cake mix or a German chocolate cake mix for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Alternative Fillings: Swap the sweetened condensed milk with caramel or dulce de leche for a caramel-infused version.

Pairing Suggestions

While this cake is a star on its own, pairing it with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or herbal tea can enhance the experience even further. The rich, chocolatey flavor complements these drinks perfectly.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It’s often even more flavorful the next day!

Q: What can I use instead of yogurt?
A: You can substitute yogurt with sour cream for a similar texture and tanginess.

Q: Can I use a different type of frosting?
A: Absolutely! Chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting would also work well.

Conclusion

This German Chocolate Poke Cake is a decadent dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its layers of moist cake, creamy filling, smooth ganache, and crunchy coconut pecan frosting, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious treats.

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