This popular dessert is a variation on the classic cake, characterized by holes poked into the baked surface which are then filled with a flavorful liquid or cream. The result is a moist and intensely flavored dessert, where the filling permeates the cake structure, enhancing the overall eating experience. A typical example involves a chocolate cake base, often a German chocolate cake, punctured and then soaked with a mixture of sweetened condensed milk and caramel, followed by a whipped topping or frosting.
The appeal of this type of dessert lies in its ease of preparation and the enhanced moisture content, making it a forgiving option for novice bakers and a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Its history is rooted in the mid-20th century, coinciding with the rise of convenience baking ingredients and the popularity of boxed cake mixes. This approach provided a relatively quick and reliable way to create a flavorful and visually appealing dessert with minimal effort. The ease of customization regarding fillings and toppings also contributes to its enduring popularity.