Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.
Mix and bake the German chocolate cake according to the package instructions.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
Poke the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top, allowing it to seep into the holes.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
Chill the Cake
Cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the Toppings
Spread the coconut-pecan frosting in a thin layer over the chilled cake.
Gently spread the whipped topping over the frosting layer.
Garnish
Sprinkle the top with toasted shredded coconut and chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
Serve
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.