German Chocolate Poke Cake

INGREDIENTS:

For the Cake:

1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, like eggs, oil, and water)

1 cup sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter

3 large egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut

1 cup chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Toppings:

Whipped cream

Extra shredded coconut or chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Prepare the cake batter using the ingredients listed on the box. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to package directions.

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Poke and Fill

Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes evenly across the warm cake.

Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce over the cake, allowing them to seep into the holes. Spread gently with a spatula to ensure even coverage.

Step 3: Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8–10 minutes).

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Spread the coconut-pecan filling evenly over the top of the cake …