For an indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate with a classic German twist, the German Chocolate Poke Cake is an excellent choice. This recipe cleverly layers different textures and flavors, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful cake. Here’s how you can recreate this delightful treat.
Ingredients:
- Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix: 1 package
- Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding: 1 package (3.4 ounces)
- Large Eggs: 4
- Plain Yogurt: 1 cup
- Vegetable Oil: 3/4 cup
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
For the Filling:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 ounces)
For the Ganache:
- Chopped Chocolate: 4 ounces
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
For the Frosting:
- Coconut Pecan Frosting: 1 can
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark chocolate fudge cake mix, instant chocolate fudge pudding, eggs, plain yogurt, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat these ingredients using an electric mixer until they are well combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake it for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- After removing the cake from the oven, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake. Then, evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it soaks into the holes. Allow the cake to cool.
- For the ganache, place the chopped chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it starts to bubble around the edges. Then pour the heated cream over the chocolate, allowing it to sit for about 5 minutes.
- Stir the chocolate and cream mixture until the chocolate is fully melted. Allow the ganache to thicken for 5 to 10 minutes before spreading it over the top of the cooled cake.
- Finally, spread the coconut pecan frosting over the ganache layer.
- Once assembled, the cake is ready to be served and enjoyed.
Variations and Substitutions:
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use skim milk.
- For a nuttier texture, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top of the frosting.
- For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free substitutes for the yogurt, milk, and cream.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache, such as milk chocolate for a sweeter taste or bittersweet chocolate for a deeper flavor.
This German Chocolate Poke Cake is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or as a special treat for chocolate lovers. Its layers of moist cake, rich ganache, and creamy coconut pecan frosting make it a truly decadent dessert.