Dive into decadence with this show-stopping German Chocolate Punch Bowl Cake, a no-fuss dessert that delivers layers of rich flavor and irresistible texture. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this easy-to-assemble trifle-style treat combines moist crumbled chocolate cake, creamy chocolate pudding, sweetened shredded coconut, crunchy pecans, luscious caramel sauce, and fluffy whipped topping. Each layer is packed with the classic flavors of a German chocolate cake but served in a stunning punch bowl for maximum wow-factor. The chilled dessert not only impresses visually but also offers a dreamy combination of sweetness and crunch in every bite. Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or celebrations, this make-ahead dessert is as easy to prepare as it is to devour!
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions by combining the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, crumble the cake into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and instant chocolate pudding mix together for 2 minutes until thickened. Refrigerate for about 5 minutes to set.
In a large punch bowl or trifle dish, begin layering the dessert. Start with a layer of crumbled chocolate cake.
Spread a layer of the prepared chocolate pudding on top of the crumbled cake.
Sprinkle a generous handful of sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans over the pudding layer.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the coconut and pecans.
Spread a layer of whipped topping on top to complete the first layer.
Repeat the layers (cake, pudding, coconut, pecans, caramel, whipped topping) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped topping on top.
If desired, sprinkle the top layer with remaining coconut, pecans, and optional semi-sweet chocolate chips for garnish.
Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled with a large spoon straight from the punch bowl. Enjoy!
Calories |
7743 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 502.4 g | 644% | |
| Saturated Fat | 209.4 g | 1047% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 74.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1139 mg | 380% | |
| Sodium | 5404 mg | 235% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 792.8 g | 288% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 40.1 g | 143% | |
| Total Sugars | 551.2 g | ||
| Protein | 100.2 g | 200% | |
| Vitamin D | 15.4 mcg | 77% | |
| Calcium | 1765 mg | 136% | |
| Iron | 27.6 mg | 153% | |
| Potassium | 3348 mg | 71% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.