Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more? Look no further than this luxurious German Chocolate Poke Cake! With its rich layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy filling, and decadent ganache, this dessert is a true masterpiece that promises to delight all who taste it. Join us as we delve into the realm of indulgence and uncover the secrets to creating this exquisite treat.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box dark chocolate fudge cake mix
- 1 (3.4 oz) box chocolate fudge instant pudding
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
For the Ganache:
- 4 oz chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Frosting:
- 1 can coconut pecan frosting
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, instant pudding mix, eggs, yogurt, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Creating the Holes:
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
3. Making the Ganache:
- Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute.
- Stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.
4. Finishing Touches:
- Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the ganache to set slightly before adding the frosting.
- Warm the coconut pecan frosting in the microwave for a few seconds to make it easier to spread.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake, covering the ganache layer.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Texture Preference: For an extra moist cake, you can substitute sour cream for the plain yogurt in the cake batter.
- Nutty Addition: Enhance the flavor and texture of the cake by adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling or sprinkling them over the frosting.
- Whipped Cream Topping: For a lighter option, you can skip the ganache and frosting and top the cake with whipped cream instead.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this cake keto-friendly, you can use a low-carb chocolate cake mix and sugar-free chocolate chips for the ganache. Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a keto-friendly sweetened condensed milk alternative. For the frosting, you can make a keto-friendly version using coconut cream, powdered erythritol, and chopped pecans.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the same instructions as the keto version, but you can use a low-carb cake mix and reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk in the filling to lower the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe? A: Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix to create variations of this recipe. Try using a German chocolate cake mix for an even more intense chocolate flavor.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, this cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Elevate your dessert game with the sumptuous flavors of German Chocolate Poke Cake. From its moist chocolate cake base to its luscious filling and decadent ganache, every bite is a symphony of indulgence. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with keto or low-carb variations, one thing’s for certain – this cake is a showstopper that will leave your taste buds singing with delight. So why wait? Dive into the world of decadence and treat yourself to a slice of pure bliss today!
Unlock the magic of German Chocolate Poke Cake and let its irresistible allure captivate your senses. With its rich flavors and luxurious textures, it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion. So go ahead, indulge your sweet tooth and savor the exquisite pleasure of this divine dessert. Your taste buds will thank you!
