Luxurious German Chocolate Poke Cake

Description:
This Luxurious German Chocolate Poke Cake is an irresistible dessert featuring a rich chocolate cake infused with sweetened condensed milk and topped with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. Every bite is moist, gooey, and bursting with decadent flavor, making it a showstopper for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake recipe)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup water
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

For the Coconut-Pecan Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Optional Garnishes:

• Chocolate syrup or ganache for drizzling
• Additional shredded coconut or chopped pecans for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions (combine eggs, oil, and water).
3. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Create the Poke Effect

1. While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
2. Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Topping

1. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, evaporated milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and pecans. Let the topping cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Spread the coconut-pecan topping evenly over the cooled cake.
2. Drizzle with chocolate syrup or ganache, if desired, and sprinkle additional coconut or pecans for extra flair.

Tips for Success:

• Make It Extra Moist: Allow the sweetened condensed milk to fully soak into the cake by letting it sit for at least 30 minutes before adding the topping.
• Custom Toppings: Add a layer of whipped cream or chocolate frosting beneath the coconut-pecan topping for a creamy twist.
• Toasting Pecans: Enhance their flavor by toasting the pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the topping.

Serving Recommendations:

• Serve chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or birthdays.

Nutrition (Per Serving, ~12 servings):

Approximate values

• Calories: 490
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugar: 48g
• Sodium: 300mg