Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Mix Cake Batter: Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
2. Poke the Cake
- Create Holes: Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Make sure to poke deep enough to allow the liquids to soak in but not so deep that it falls apart.
3. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Chocolate Syrup
- Drizzle Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate syrup. Pour this mixture evenly over the top of the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting
- Cook Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add Coconut and Pecans: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Allow the frosting to cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled cake.
5. Make the Chocolate Glaze
- Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Melt Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth and glossy.
6. Assemble the Cake
- Pour Glaze: Once the cake is frosted with the coconut-pecan mixture, pour the chocolate glaze over the top, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Chill and Slice: For the best flavor, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect German Chocolate Poke Cake
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the best flavor in both the cake and the glaze.
- Poke Deep: Make sure the holes are deep enough to let the milk and syrup soak in for that rich flavor.
- Texture Variation: Feel free to mix in other ingredients such as chopped chocolate or caramel drizzle for added decadence.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors often improve as it sits!
Health Considerations
- Moderation: Given its rich ingredients, enjoy this cake as an occasional treat rather than an everyday dessert.
- Allergy Adjustments: If you have nut allergies, you can either omit the pecans or substitute them with another safe ingredient, such as sunflower seeds.
Conclusion
German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the classic flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans in a moist and indulgent cake. With its eye-catching appearance and irresistible taste, this poke cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to impress your loved ones with this scrumptious treat!
