The rich, velvety texture and deep, dark flavor of German chocolate cake are a match made in heaven. This beloved dessert has been a staple at family gatherings and celebrations for generations, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newcomer to the world of sweet treats, there’s something about the combination of sweet chocolate, toasted nuts, and creamy coconut that will leave you hooked.
But what if we told you that there’s more to German chocolate cake than just the classic recipe? What if we showed you a dozen (okay, 18!) decadent takes on this beloved dessert, each one more mouthwatering than the last? From towering layer cakes to gooey poke cakes and even cake cookies, we’re diving deep into the world of German chocolate cakes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. So grab a cup of coffee (or two), get comfortable, and let’s dive in!
Classic German Chocolate Cake with Coconut Pecan Frosting
This decadent cake is a staple of German baking tradition, featuring rich chocolate and a creamy coconut-pecan frosting that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine dry and wet ingredients; pour into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Let cool completely before frosting: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar, coconut, pecans, and butter. Spread over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
German Chocolate Cupcakes with Caramel Drizzle
Moist and decadent German chocolate cupcakes get a sweet upgrade with a velvety caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the caramel drizzle:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine cocoa powder and milk. Stir until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. To make caramel drizzle, combine cream, sugar, and sea salt in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted. Drizzle warm caramel over cooled cupcakes.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (cupcakes) + 10-12 minutes (caramel drizzle)
Vegan German Chocolate Cake with Cashew Frosting
Experience the rich flavors of Germany in this vegan twist on a classic dessert. Moist and decadent, this cake is perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy)
– 1/2 cup canola oil
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips
For the frosting:
– 1 cup cashews
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together non-dairy milk, oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in vegan chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with Cashew Frosting (see below).
Cashew Frosting:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse cashews, then blend with lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt until smooth.
3. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cake with Almond Flour
A rich and decadent gluten-free cake that combines the flavors of German chocolate and almond flour for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons German chocolate extract (or regular chocolate extract)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add melted coconut oil or butter, German chocolate extract, and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second increments, stirring between each interval) or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into cake batter until well combined.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Chocolate Cake Cheesecake Swirl
Experience the best of both worlds with this rich and creamy cheesecake swirled with the flavors of German chocolate cake. Moist, velvety cheesecake meets the deep, caramel-like notes of German chocolate in a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup heavy cream
For the German chocolate swirl:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar, then adding melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cheesecake ingredients until smooth, then pour into prepared pan.
4. Melt German chocolate swirl ingredients in a saucepan over low heat. Pour over cheesecake batter.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
German Chocolate Brownie Cake with Walnuts
A rich and fudgy brownie cake infused with the deep flavors of German chocolate and topped with crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) German chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter and sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Melt German chocolate chips and stir into the wet ingredients.
6. Add flour mixture and stir until just combined.
7. Fold in chopped walnuts.
8. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
German Chocolate Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache
Moist and flavorful, this classic German chocolate bundt cake is elevated by a velvety chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup evaporated milk
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
2. Mix cake ingredients in a large bowl. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Whisk in heavy cream until smooth.
5. Drizzle ganache over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
German Chocolate Layer Cake with Salted Caramel
This decadent layer cake combines the richness of German chocolate cake, the creaminess of salted caramel, and the crunch of chopped pecans. A perfect dessert for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramel:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Make the cake: Whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combine wet and dry ingredients; pour into prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Make the caramel: Combine cream, sugar, and sea salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil; cook for 5 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown. Remove from heat; whisk in butter.
4. Assemble the cake: Let cakes cool completely. Place one cake layer on a serving plate; drizzle with caramel. Repeat with remaining layers and finish with a layer of caramel.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, including cooling time.
German Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, featuring rich chocolate cake topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup German’s chocolate chips
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Combine cake ingredients; mix until smooth.
3. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Let cool completely in pan.
5. Prepare frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
6. Spread frosting over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Chocolate Poke Cake with Coconut Milk Soak
Moist and decadent, this German chocolate poke cake is elevated by a creamy coconut milk soak that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of German chocolate cake mix (15 ounces)
– 1 cup of whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Coconut cream, for soaking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Poke holes evenly throughout the cake using a fork or skewer.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the poked cake, making sure it’s fully saturated.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
German Chocolate Mug Cake for One
This decadent mug cake is a perfect treat for one, packed with the flavors of German chocolate and topped with a gooey caramel drizzle. In just 5 minutes, you’ll have a warm, indulgent dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 piece (about 0.5 ounces) German chocolate, chopped
– Caramel sauce, for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped German chocolate.
4. Microwave on high for 1:30-1:45 minutes, or until cake is cooked through.
5. Remove from microwave and let cool for 1 minute.
6. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve.
Cooking Time: 1:30-1:45 minutes
German Chocolate Icebox Cake with Chocolate Wafers
A classic dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this German Chocolate Icebox Cake with Chocolate Wafers is a rich and creamy treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups chocolate wafers
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, crush the chocolate wafers.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the crushed wafers until well combined.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Pour the melted chocolate over the wafer mixture and stir until coated.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
German Chocolate Cake Trifle with Whipped Cream
This decadent dessert combines the richness of German chocolate cake with the lightness of whipped cream, layered to perfection for a show-stopping treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 (16.5 oz) package German chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Cut the cooled cake into 1-inch cubes.
4. Layer the cake, whipped cream, and milk in a large serving dish or individual glasses, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the whipped cream, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (cake preparation time: approximately 45 minutes)
German Chocolate Pancake Stack with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a rich and decadent German chocolate pancake stack, drizzled with warm maple syrup. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– German chocolate chips (about 1/2 cup)
– Maple syrup (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your griddle or non-stick skillet to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in German chocolate chips.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the griddle or skillet.
7. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until bubbles appear on surface and edges are dry.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for 6-8 pancakes.
German Chocolate Donuts with Coconut Glaze
These moist and flavorful donuts are infused with the richness of German chocolate and topped with a sweet coconut glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup German chocolate chips
– Coconut glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, salt, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in German chocolate chips.
5. Pipe donuts onto a paper-lined plate using a piping bag or a spoon.
6. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Coconut Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients until smooth and drizzly. Drizzle over donuts while still warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
German Chocolate Cake Cookies with Pecan Filling
These chewy cookies are filled with a gooey pecan filling and topped with a rich German chocolate glaze, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cookies:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the pecan filling:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the German chocolate glaze:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before filling with pecan filling and topping with German chocolate glaze.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
German Chocolate Tart with Shortbread Crust
German Chocolate Tart with Shortbread Crust Recipe
A rich and decadent dessert that combines the classic flavors of German chocolate cake with a buttery shortbread crust, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
– 1 cup (200g) German chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
3. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Bake crust for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Prepare the filling: Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling over cooled crust; smooth top.
7. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
German Chocolate Cake Milkshake with Toasted Coconut
Experience the rich flavors of German chocolate cake in a creamy milkshake, topped with the warmth of toasted coconut flakes. This unique dessert is perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons German chocolate cake mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, cocoa powder, heavy cream, German chocolate cake mix, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour into glasses and top with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Summary
Indulge in the rich and decadent world of German Chocolate Cakes with these 18 irresistible recipes. From classic cakes with coconut pecan frosting to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at cheesecake swirls, brownie cakes with walnuts, or bundt cakes with chocolate ganache. For a treat that’s perfect for one, make a German Chocolate Mug Cake. Or go big and create a layer cake with salted caramel or a trifle with whipped cream. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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