Go Back

German Chocolate Poke Cake

A moist, luscious sheet cake soaked in sweetened condensed milk, topped with chocolate frosting, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans, delivering a true German chocolate experience without the layers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder For rich chocolate flavor
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup buttermilk For tenderness
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water To bloom the cocoa
Toppings
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk To soak the cake
  • 1 cup chocolate frosting Use your favorite brand
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until no dark streaks remain.
  3. Add the wet ingredients (buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla) to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  4. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and glossy.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooling and Soaking
  1. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before poking holes all over the surface with a fork.
  2. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm cake, aiming for an even drizzle.
  3. Cool the cake completely before frosting.
Finishing Touches
  1. Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  2. Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans on top, gently pressing them into the frosting.
  3. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Serve slightly cool or at room temperature for the best texture. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.