Why You’ll Love This German Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both indulgent and nostalgic, you’ll love this German Cake recipe.
It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors that takes me back to my childhood. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and sweet coconut creates a delightful texture that’s hard to resist.
I appreciate how easy it’s to whip up, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Plus, the creamy frosting adds an irresistible finish.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know. It’s that good!
Ingredients of German Cake
When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference, and this German Cake is no exception. With its luscious layers of chocolate, nuts, and coconut, it’s a comfort food classic that’s sure to impress.
So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat. Don’t worry, it’s not a long list—just a few essentials that you probably already have in your pantry. Ready? Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pam cooking spray (or vegetable oil & flour)
- 2 cups coconut
- 2 cups whole pecans (a 6-oz. package)
- 18 1/4 ounces chocolate cake mix
- 3 eggs (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 1/3 cup oil (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 1 1/3 cups water (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 (3 3/4 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding (the regular size)
- 1 lb confectioners’ sugar (3 to 3-1/2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons milk
Now, let’s talk a bit about those ingredients. It’s amazing how the combination of coconut and pecans can elevate the chocolate cake mix to a whole new level.
And don’t shy away from using the instant pudding—it really amps up the creaminess of the frosting and makes it oh-so-decadent. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even experiment with different nuts or add a splash of vanilla to the cake mix for an extra flavor boost.
Just remember, baking is as much about having fun as it’s about following the recipe. So, grab your apron, and let’s get ready to make some magic happen in the kitchen.
How to Make German Cake
Making a German Cake is like taking a delicious trip down memory lane, where the chocolate cake meets luscious layers of coconut and pecans, all topped off with a creamy frosting that feels like a warm hug. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started.
First things first, preheat your oven to 325 degrees. It’s important to get that heat going so your cake can bake evenly and perfectly. While that’s happening, grab your 18 1/4 ounces of chocolate cake mix; you’ll want to mix it according to the package directions. I find it’s easiest to use a pourable bowl—something like a large liquid measuring cup—because trust me, spilling cake batter is no fun.
Now, let’s get our baking pan ready. Spray a 9 x 13 pan with Pam cooking spray or a little vegetable oil, and then lightly dust it with flour. This will help prevent any sticking, which is essential unless you enjoy picking bits of cake out of the pan.
Next, take those 2 cups of whole pecans and line the bottom of the pan, pressing them down gently so they cover the surface evenly. Sprinkle 2 cups of coconut over the pecans, creating a lovely, tropical layer. Now, pour your mixed chocolate cake batter right over that coconut layer. It’s like a party in a pan, and you’re the host.
While the cake is on its way to greatness, let’s whip up that irresistible cream cheese topping. In a saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over low heat. Once melted, add in an 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese, the instant vanilla pudding, and 1 pound of confectioners’ sugar.
Mix it all well, and if it’s too thick to drizzle, just add a splash of milk—about 2 tablespoons should do the trick. You want this creamy goodness to be pourable but not runny. Once you have that silky mixture, drizzle it over the top of your cake batter.
Now, it’s time to bake it! Pop the pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 55 minutes or until it’s set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. While it bakes, you can sit back and imagine all the deliciousness that awaits you.
German Cake Substitutions & Variations
While the classic German cake recipe is a delicious treat on its own, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can elevate it even further.
For a lighter cake, try using egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
If you’re not a fan of coconut, shredded carrots can add moisture and a unique twist.
To enhance the cream cheese layer, consider adding a touch of lemon zest or vanilla extract.
Experimenting with these variations lets you personalize the cake to suit your taste and impress your guests!
What to Serve with German Cake
If you’re looking to elevate your German cake experience, pairing it with the right accompaniments can make all the difference.
I love serving my German cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess balances the rich chocolate and coconut flavors perfectly.
Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, add a revitalizing contrast and a pop of color.
For a more indulgent touch, a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans can enhance the cake’s texture and flavor.
Trust me, these additions will take your dessert to the next level!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your German cake turns out perfectly, I’ve gathered a few helpful tips.
First, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. I recommend using a pourable bowl for the cake batter to avoid spills.
Don’t skip lining the pan with pecans and coconut; it adds amazing flavor!
When melting the butter, do it slowly to prevent burning. If your cream cheese mixture is too thick, just add a little more milk until it’s pourable.
Finally, keep an eye on the baking time—ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
Enjoy your baking!