Creating the German Chocolate Poke Cake involves several simple steps that will guide you through the process:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix on medium speed until well blended.

3. Pour into Pan: Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly.

4. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

6. Poke the Holes: Once cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake.

7. Prepare the Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir over low heat until the chocolate chips are fully melted.

8. Fill the Holes: Slowly pour the chocolate filling over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.

9. Make the Coconut Pecan Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, egg yolk, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mix until thoroughly combined.

10. Spread the Topping: Spoon the coconut pecan mixture on top of the cake, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.

11. Chill: Place the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.