Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake is the indulgent, foolproof dessert that transforms boxed cake mix into a rich, moist chocolate delight topped with classic coconut‑pecan frosting.

Tired of dry cakes that taste like cardboard? This poke cake delivers a luscious, ooey‑gooey texture with minimal effort. It’s simple to make, yet feels gourmet perfect for celebrations or weeknight dessert cravings.

Hi, I’m Jack recipe developer, food enthusiast, and the heart behind Cooks Foody. I started Cooks Foody to share meals that bring joy, without stress. After countless dessert misfires (dry sponges galore!), I discovered this method to elevate store‑bought cake into something truly special. Now I can’t wait to share it with you.

In this post, I’ll cover:

Why this recipe works so well
The best ingredients to choose
Step‑by‑step instructions
Baking pro tips, flavor twists, and FAQs

Why This Dessert Recipe Works Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

✅ Uses store‑bought mix for easy prep without sacrificing flavor
✅ Sweetened condensed milk soaking yields rich, moist texture
✅ Ideal for make‑ahead desserts, potlucks, or casual treats
✅ Customizable with nuts, frosting variations, or add‑ins

Choosing the Right Ingredients Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Best Ingredients for This Recipe

German chocolate cake mix for authentic flavor
Sweetened condensed milk for maximum moisture
Coconut‑pecan frosting for classic topping
Chopped pecans & shredded coconut for texture contrast

Buying Tips

Use a mix specifically labeled German Chocolate for true flavor
Choose full‑fat condensed milk for optimal richness
Toast pecans beforehand for deeper nutty taste

Substitutions

Use devil’s food cake mix + 1 tsp coconut extract
For nut-free: omit pecans and double shredded coconut
For dairy-free: use coconut condensed milk and vegan frosting

Ingredients & Prep Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Baking Prep Essentials

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease a 9×13-inch pan thoroughly
Bake cake per box instructions, then let cool ~15 minutes

Soak & Flavor Infusion

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Optional: ½ cup coconut milk for extra tropical notes
Pour mixture evenly over cake holes and allow soaking for best results, refrigerate 1 hour or overnight.

Pantry Staples

Non‑stick spray
Vanilla extract to elevate chocolate mix
Sea salt pinch to enhance chocolate flavor

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Step-by-Step Baking Instructions Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Pre‑Baking Prep Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Ready cake batter per box and bake in greased pan.
Cool cake for 15 minutes before poking holes.

Soak & Chill Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Use wooden spoon handle to poke holes evenly.
Slowly pour condensed milk mix over cake.
Refrigerate 1–2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.

Frosting & Final Touch Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Spread coconut‑pecan frosting evenly over chilled cake.
Sprinkle toasted pecans and shredded coconut on top.

Final Chill (Resting) Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Chill at least 30 minutes after frosting to set and slice cleanly

Pro Tips for Perfect Dessert Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Avoiding Dry Cake Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Check cake 5 minutes early to avoid overbaking
Use full-fat dairy for the moistest texture

Tool Recommendations Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

9×13 baking pan (metal or glass)
Wooden spoon for uniform poking
Offset spatula or butter knife for frosting

Storage & Reheating Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Store refrigerated for up to 5 days, covered
Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months

Flavor Variations Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Variation	Description
Mocha Twist	Add 1 tsp instant espresso and ¼ tsp cayenne to cake mix
Tropical Delight	Stir pineapple juice in soak and top with pineapple chunks
Nut-Free Version	Skip pecans, double shredded coconut, or use coconut flakes
Cheesecake Layer	Add a cream cheese topping instead of coconut frosting
Double Chocolate	Mix chocolate chips into batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top

Serving Suggestions Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Serve slices with vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream
Top with fresh berries or raspberries for contrast
Pair with coffee, chai tea, or sweetened iced latte
Slice into small squares for dessert boards or parties

FAQs Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling flavors meld overnight.

Can I use a different flavor mix?
Certainly devil’s food or chocolate fudge also work well.

Can I skip the coconut?
Sure! Try a chocolate fudge or cream cheese frosting instead.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Ready to delight guests with something rich, easy, and unforgettable? Try this Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake tonight it’s comfort food made simple, with all the flavor you want and none of the stress.

Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake 1 Irresistible Moist Dessert Magic

Author: Jack
Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake is a luscious, moist chocolate cake soaked in sweetened condensed milk and topped with coconut‑pecan frosting.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a 9×13‑inch baking pan.

3. Prepare cake mix per package directions.

4. Bake and let cool for 15 minutes.

5. Poke holes evenly with the handle of a wooden spoon.

6. Pour sweetened condensed milk (and coconut milk if using) over the cake.

7. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours or overnight.

8. Spread coconut‑pecan frosting evenly over chilled cake.

9. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and shredded coconut.

10. Cut into slices and serve chilled.

Notes

Optional: Add chocolate chips on top or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Best if chilled overnight for deeper flavor.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 310mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Easy German Chocolate Poke Cake, moist chocolate dessert, make‑ahead cake