This German Chocolate Poke Cake is pure indulgence—rich, moist, and irresistibly sweet. A soft chocolate cake is infused with creamy caramel, layered with a luscious coconut-pecan topping, and finished with a smooth chocolate drizzle. It’s a show-stopping dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery, yet it’s incredibly easy to make at home. Every bite is a perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, coconut, and crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Decadent Yet Simple: Made with easy ingredients but tastes like gourmet.
Moist & Gooey Texture: Every poke absorbs delicious caramel flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or potlucks.
Crowd Favorite: Chocolate lovers and dessert fans will rave about it!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel topping
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
- 1 ½ cups light whipped topping
- ¼ cup chocolate syrup or melted chocolate for drizzle
Instructions
1. Bake the Cake
Prepare and bake the chocolate cake according to the package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Poke the Holes
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface of the warm cake.
3. Add the Caramel & Condensed Milk
Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, followed by the caramel topping. Let it soak in for 20–30 minutes.
4. Toast the Toppings
In a dry skillet, lightly toast the coconut and pecans over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Let them cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Topping
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle the toasted coconut and pecans on top.
6. Finish with Chocolate Drizzle
Drizzle chocolate syrup or melted chocolate across the top for a bakery-style finish.
7. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the texture set perfectly.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 285
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 13g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Tips for Success
- Poke While Warm: This helps the caramel and milk soak deep into the cake.
- Toast the Nuts & Coconut: Adds a nutty depth and crunchy contrast.
- Chill Before Serving: Enhances the texture and flavor fusion.
- Make Ahead: Perfect for preparing a day early—it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Why This Recipe Works
By combining a soft chocolate base with rich caramel and a creamy, nutty topping, this cake delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite. The “poke” technique ensures every piece is moist and delicious from top to bottom—no dry cake here, just gooey, chocolatey perfection.
Mouthwatering German Chocolate Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for any chocolate lover. It’s easy to make, stunning to serve, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cake brings indulgence and joy to every slice.
Mouthwatering German Chocolate Poke Cake – A Decadent Classic Made Easy
12
servings15
minutes30
minutes285
kcal1
hour45
minutesThis German Chocolate Poke Cake is pure indulgence—rich, moist, and irresistibly sweet. A soft chocolate cake is infused with creamy caramel, layered with a luscious coconut-pecan topping, and finished with a smooth chocolate drizzle. It’s a show-stopping dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery, yet it’s incredibly easy to make at home. Every bite is a perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, coconut, and crunch.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 jar (12 oz) caramel topping
For the Topping:
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
¾ cup chopped pecans
1 ½ cups light whipped topping
¼ cup chocolate syrup or melted chocolate for drizzle
Instructions
- Bake the Cake
Prepare and bake the chocolate cake according to the package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes. - Poke the Holes
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface of the warm cake. - Add the Caramel & Condensed Milk
Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, followed by the caramel topping. Let it soak in for 20–30 minutes. - Toast the Toppings
In a dry skillet, lightly toast the coconut and pecans over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Let them cool slightly. - Assemble the Topping
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle the toasted coconut and pecans on top. - Finish with Chocolate Drizzle
Drizzle chocolate syrup or melted chocolate across the top for a bakery-style finish. - Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the texture set perfectly.
Notes
- Poke While Warm: This helps the caramel and milk soak deep into the cake.
Toast the Nuts & Coconut: Adds a nutty depth and crunchy contrast.
Chill Before Serving: Enhances the texture and flavor fusion.
Make Ahead: Perfect for preparing a day early—it tastes even better after chilling overnight.