# **German Chocolate Poke Cake: A Decadent Delight**
## **🍰 Introduction**
German Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, moist, and indulgent dessert that combines the deep flavors of German chocolate cake with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk and caramel. This cake gets its name from the “poke” method, where holes are made in the baked cake to allow sweet fillings to seep in, making every bite incredibly moist and flavorful. Topped with crunchy pecans, this cake is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for celebrations or cozy family gatherings.
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## **📜 History of German Chocolate Cake**
Contrary to popular belief, German Chocolate Cake is not actually from Germany! It originated in the United States and is named after **Samuel German**, an American chocolatier who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for the Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. The classic cake recipe, featuring coconut-pecan frosting, became popular in the 1950s.
The **Poke Cake variation** emerged later, likely in the 1970s, as a way to make boxed cakes more exciting by infusing them with sweet liquids like pudding, condensed milk, or caramel.
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## **🥜 Benefits of German Chocolate Poke Cake**
✅ **Rich in Flavor** – Chocolate, caramel, and pecans create a perfect balance.
✅ **Moist Texture** – The poke method ensures the cake stays soft and luscious.
✅ **Easy to Make** – Uses a boxed cake mix for convenience.
✅ **Nutrient Boost** – Pecans provide healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
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## **📝 Ingredients**
### **For the Cake:**
– 1 box (15.25 oz) German chocolate cake mix
– 1 ½ cups water
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
### **For the Filling & Topping:**
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
*(Optional: Whipped cream or chocolate shavings for garnish)*
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## **👩🍳 Instructions**
### **Step 1: Bake the Cake**
1. Preheat oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease a **9×13-inch baking pan**.
2. In a large bowl, mix cake mix, water, oil, and eggs until smooth.
3. Pour batter into the pan and bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
### **Step 2: Poke the Cake**
1. Let the cake cool for **10 minutes**.
2. Use the **handle of a wooden spoon** to poke holes all over the cake (about ½-inch apart).
### **Step 3: Add the Fillings**
1. Pour **sweetened condensed milk** evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
2. Drizzle **caramel sauce** over the top, spreading gently with a spatula.
### **Step 4: Add Toppings & Chill**
1. Sprinkle **chopped pecans** generously over the cake.
2. Refrigerate for **at least 2 hours** (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.
### **Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!**
– Slice and serve chilled.
– *(Optional: Add whipped cream or chocolate drizzle for extra decadence.)*
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## **⚙️ Methods & Tips**
🔹 **For Extra Flavor:** Toast pecans before adding for a nuttier taste.
🔹 **Homemade Caramel:** Melt 1 cup sugar + 6 tbsp butter + ½ cup heavy cream + 1 tsp vanilla.
🔹 **Storage:** Keep refrigerated for up to **5 days**.
🔹 **Freezing:** Wrap tightly and freeze for up to **1 month**.
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## **📊 Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)**
| **Nutrient** | **Amount** |
|————-|————|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Carbs | 52g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sugar | 38g |
| Fiber | 2g |
*(Note: Values vary based on ingredients used.)*
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## **💖 Why Cake Lovers Adore This Recipe**
❤️ **Perfect for Parties** – Always a hit at gatherings!
❤️ **Easy Yet Impressive** – Looks and tastes gourmet with minimal effort.
❤️ **Customizable** – Swap pecans for walnuts or add coconut flakes.
❤️ **Ultra-Moist** – The condensed milk keeps it deliciously soft.
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## **🎉 Conclusion**
German Chocolate Poke Cake is a **must-try** for anyone who loves rich, gooey desserts. With its **easy preparation** and **unforgettable taste**, it’s no wonder this cake has won the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat, this cake delivers **decadence in every bite!**
**🍫 Bake it today and watch it disappear!** 😋