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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until well blended.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
- Poke Holes: Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Be sure to create enough holes for the filling to seep in.
Step 3: Add the Filling
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate syrup. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature.
Step 4: Make the Coconut Pecan Topping
- Cook the Topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and egg yolks. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
- Add Coconut and Pecans: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Allow the topping to cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled cake.
Step 5: Serve
- Frost and Garnish: If desired, add a layer of whipped cream or chocolate frosting on top of the coconut pecan layer for an extra indulgent touch.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut the cake into squares and serve. This cake is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. It often tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight as the flavors develop.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different chocolate syrups or even add caramel sauce for a unique twist.
- Nut-Free Option: If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the pecans and use a nut-free chocolate cake mix.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more decadent dessert experience.
Conclusion
Heavenly German Chocolate Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines rich chocolate flavor with a creamy coconut pecan topping. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, from birthdays to holiday gatherings, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to taste it. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create this delectable dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy every bite of this heavenly indulgence!