Name: German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz) German chocolate cake mix; 3 large eggs, at room temperature; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup evaporated milk; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup evaporated milk; ½ cup unsalted butter; 3 egg yolks, slightly beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup heavy cream

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 20 reviews

If you love indulgent desserts that bring a bit of homemade charm to your table, this German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine a moist chocolate cake that’s lovingly poked to soak up a luscious milk filling, then crowned with a rich coconut-pecan frosting and, if you’re feeling extra decadent, drizzled with silky chocolate ganache. It’s a celebration in every bite, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself because life deserves a little sweetness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are three brown eggs placed in a white egg holder at the top left. Next to them, a purple bag of chopped pecans is partially open with some nuts spilled out. Below the eggs, there is a red and white can of sweetened condensed milk. To its right, a metallic measuring cup filled with a yellow liquid, likely melted butter or oil, sits near a small white bowl. A jar of dark brown hot fudge topping is positioned next to the bowl. Below the condensed milk, there is a container of Pillsbury creamy supreme coconut pecan frosting with a blue lid. Beside it, a small white dish filled with mini chocolate chips is visible. At the bottom right corner, a box of Great Value deluxe moist Devil's food chocolate cake mix with a picture of a three-layer chocolate cake is placed. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe comes down to a handful of straightforward ingredients that pack a punch of flavor and texture. Each element works beautifully together — from the tender cake base to the creamy filling and the crunchy, nutty frosting — delivering that classic, nostalgic taste you crave.

German chocolate cake mix: Provides a rich, moist chocolate foundation that’s easy and reliable.
Eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract: Essentials that ensure tender crumb and deep flavor in the cake.
Sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk: Create the luscious, creamy filling that seeps into the cake through the poked holes.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to both the filling and frosting for that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Granulated sugar and egg yolks: Help thicken and sweeten the coconut-pecan frosting for a perfect finishing touch.
Sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans: Give the frosting a delightful chewy and crunchy texture.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream (optional): Combine for a smooth and glossy ganache to drizzle on top if you want an extra chocolate kick.

How to Make German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the German chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and creamy—about two minutes on medium speed. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. This cake will be the sturdy yet tender base that soaks up the amazing filling.

Step 2: Create the Holes

Immediately after the cake comes out of the oven, grab the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork and gently poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about an inch apart. This simple step lets the filling seep deep into the cake, infusing every bite with creamy goodness. The warm cake also helps the filling absorb perfectly without turning mushy.

Step 3: Prepare and Add the Filling

In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat until the butter melts and everything is well combined. Pour this rich mixture evenly over the warm cake, making sure it seeps into all those little holes you made earlier. This filling is where the “poke” part of the cake truly shines, delivering moist pockets of sweetness throughout.

Step 4: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

For the frosting, whisk together the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and beaten egg yolks in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scrambling, until the mixture thickens—about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. The result is a beautifully textured, golden-brown frosting packed with the classic coconut-pecan flavor that’s essential to German chocolate desserts.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Once the coconut-pecan frosting has cooled slightly (about 15 to 20 minutes), spread it evenly over the cake’s top. If you want to add that extra layer of decadence, prepare the optional chocolate ganache by heating the heavy cream until it just starts to simmer, then pouring it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and luscious, then drizzle it artfully over the frosted cake. This shiny ganache adds a beautiful contrast and an extra chocolate boost.

Step 6: Cool and Set

To let all the flavors meld and the cake set properly, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal for best results. This chilling step ensures every slice holds together beautifully with creamy pockets inside and a rich, flaky frosting on top. Get ready for a slice of heaven!

How to Serve German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe

A dark brown chocolate cake with a smooth, slightly shiny surface is shown in a white rectangular baking dish. The first image shows the whole cake, while the second image shows the cake with small evenly spaced holes poked all over the top using a wooden spoon placed inside one hole. The background is a wooden surface with some egg shells in a white container, a metal bowl, bits of walnuts, and two metal beaters. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra toasted coconut flakes or chopped pecans on top just before serving to add a little crunch and a stunning presentation. A few fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder can also provide a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a slightly lighter twist, fresh fruit salad or a bright citrus sorbet cuts through the sweetness and adds balance to your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this classic cake into charming individual servings by baking it in smaller pans or cupcake tins and creating mini poke cakes. You can also serve slices on decorative plates with drizzles of additional ganache or caramel sauce to impress guests at your next celebration. Layering cake cubes in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and toasted coconut is another fun way to reinvent and present this irresistible treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe, be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dessert stays fresh and moist for up to four days, making it a fantastic make-ahead treat for busy schedules or spontaneous guests.

Freezing

If you want to keep this cake even longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will stay fresh for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the creamy filling and rich frosting textures.

Reheating

While this cake is best served chilled, if you prefer your slices a little warmer, simply allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwave reheating as this can affect the texture of the frosting and filling. Instead, enjoy the cool creaminess alongside a warm beverage for a delightful contrast.

FAQs

Can I make the cake from scratch instead of using a cake mix?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses a German chocolate cake mix for convenience, you can definitely bake a homemade German chocolate cake from scratch if you prefer. Keep the rest of the recipe the same, especially the poking, filling, and frosting steps to maintain that signature moist and flavorful result.

What does “poking” the cake actually do?

Poking holes in the cake creates little pockets that allow the filling to seep inside. This ensures that every bite is filled with creamy sweetness, rather than just sitting on top. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in texture and moisture.

Can I skip the chocolate ganache topping?

Absolutely! The ganache is entirely optional and adds an extra chocolate layer if you want it. The cake with just the coconut-pecan frosting is already incredibly rich and delicious on its own.

Is it possible to use different nuts or coconut alternatives?

Sure! While pecans and shredded coconut are traditional, you can experiment with walnuts or almonds, or omit the coconut if you’re not a fan. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the classic flavor and texture.

How long does this cake need to chill before serving?

For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cake for at least two hours, but overnight chilling is ideal. This allows all the layers to meld beautifully and the filling to set, creating the perfect slice every time.

Final Thoughts

This German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting and Optional Chocolate Ganache Recipe is truly a showstopper that’s easier to make than it looks. Whether you’re sharing it with friends at a party or indulging in a cozy night in, it brings warmth, joy, and rich layers of flavor to the table. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved recipe in your repertoire too!