01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
02 -
In a large bowl, combine German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat until batter is smooth and fully blended.
03 -
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
04 -
Remove the cake from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
05 -
In a medium bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk with 1/2 cup caramel sauce until fully combined.
06 -
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke evenly spaced holes across the cake surface at 1-inch intervals.
07 -
Pour the caramel filling over the cake, spreading evenly to ensure it fills the holes.
08 -
In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and remaining 1/2 cup caramel sauce, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
09 -
Fold in chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut into the frosting.
10 -
Spread the frosting evenly over the cake surface. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to set before slicing and serving.