Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of Germany’s most beloved dessert: German Chocolate Cake! This decadent delight has been a staple of American baking since the 1950s, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. With its deep, dark chocolate flavor and subtle caramel notes, it’s no wonder why this cake is a crowd-pleaser.
But what makes German Chocolate Cake truly special is the countless ways you can transform it into an even more irresistible treat. From classic cakes with creamy frostings to creative twists like cookies, brownies, and even pancakes, there’s a German Chocolate recipe out there for every sweet tooth. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 of the most decadent German Chocolate Cake recipes that will leave you weak in the knees.
Classic German Chocolate Cake with Coconut Pecan Frosting
Rich, mocha-flavored cake meets creamy coconut and crunchy pecans in this beloved dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla. Add dry mixture and mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
6. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
7. Stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes (including cooling time)
German Chocolate Cupcakes with Caramel Drizzle
Moist chocolate cupcakes filled with the warmth of caramel and topped with a velvety drizzle – a perfect treat for any occasion. These decadent treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramel drizzle:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and milk. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before drizzling with caramel.
Caramel Drizzle:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream in a saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before drizzling over cupcakes.
Vegan German Chocolate Cake with Cashew Frosting
Vegan German Chocolate Cake with Cashew Frosting: A rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. This moist and flavorful cake is made with coconut oil, applesauce, and a blend of spices, topped with a creamy cashew-based frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
– 2 large eggs, replaced by 2 flax eggs*
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Cashew frosting ingredients: see below
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted coconut oil, flax eggs, vanilla extract, applesauce, and water. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cashew Frosting:
– Soak 1 cup of cashews in water for at least 4 hours. Drain and blend with 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup maple syrup until creamy.
German Chocolate Cake Cookies with Coconut Filling
These moist cookies filled with a rich coconut filling are a twist on the classic German chocolate cake.
Ingredients:
– 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
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and shredded coconut.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Coconut Filling:
1. Mix together 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened, and 2 tbsp confectioners’ sugar.
2. Stir in 1/4 cup shredded coconut and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Spoon about 1-2 tsp of the filling onto each cooled cookie.
Tips: Allow cookies to cool completely before filling. Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cake with Almond Flour
Experience the classic flavor of German chocolate cake, now made gluten-free using almond flour. This moist and decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup German chocolate chips (gluten-free)
– 1 cup heavy cream
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, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until light and fluffy. Add melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Melt German chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second increments, stirring between each interval). Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into batter until well combined.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Chocolate Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache
Experience the perfect blend of textures and flavors with this decadent German Chocolate Cheesecake, topped with a velvety chocolate ganache. This indulgent dessert is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup German’s chocolate chips
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 6 oz semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust and bake for 10 minutes.
3. Mix cheesecake batter and pour into prepared pan.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before topping with ganache.
6. Melt chocolate chips in heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly.
7. Pour ganache over cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
German Chocolate Brownies with Coconut Topping
Rich, fudgy brownies infused with the deep flavor of German chocolate and topped with a sweet and tangy coconut topping – a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup German chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. Melt the butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Stir in chocolate chips, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. While the brownies are baking, combine shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk in a small bowl.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before topping with coconut mixture.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Chocolate Bundt Cake with Chocolate Glaze
Experience the classic combination of moist chocolate cake, crunchy pecans, and sweet coconut flakes topped with a velvety chocolate glaze. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.4 oz) package German chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– Chocolate glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in pecans, coconut, and milk.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before glazing.
Chocolate Glaze:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Stir in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
German Chocolate Cake Trifle with Whipped Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping German Chocolate Cake Trifle, layered with rich whipped cream and moist chocolate cake. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of German Chocolate Cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the German Chocolate Cake according to package instructions and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into cubes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of cake cubes, followed by a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes (including cooling time)
German Chocolate Pancakes with Pecan Syrup
Start your day off right with these indulgent pancakes, packed with the deep flavors of German chocolate and topped with a velvety pecan syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup German chocolate chips
– Pecan syrup (recipe below)
Pecan Syrup:
– 1/2 cup pecans
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
4. Fold in German chocolate chips.
5. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Serve with warm pecan syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
German Chocolate Cake Donuts with Coconut Frosting
Rich, mocha-flavored donuts filled with a deep, dark chocolate center and topped with a fluffy coconut frosting – a decadent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Coconut frosting ingredients (see below)
Donut Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
5. Pipe donuts using a piping bag or spoon.
6. Fry for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Coconut Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Combine powdered sugar, butter, and coconut in a bowl. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Cook Time: approximately 15-20 minutes for frying donuts
German Chocolate Ice Cream Cake with Fudge Layers
German Chocolate Ice Cream Cake with Fudge Layers: A rich and decadent dessert featuring layers of creamy German chocolate ice cream, fudge, and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts German chocolate ice cream
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 cup fudge sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the ice cream into a 9×13-inch pan and smooth out.
2. Melt the butter and stir in the vanilla extract. Drizzle over the ice cream.
3. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top of the ice cream, if using.
4. Pour the fudge sauce over the top of the ice cream, spreading it evenly to cover.
5. Cover and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Top with whipped cream and additional chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (freezing time)
German Chocolate Cake Pops with Toasted Coconut
Elevate your cake pop game with these decadent treats that combine the richness of German chocolate, toasted coconut, and creamy frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 box (15.25 oz) German chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– Creamy frosting (store-bought or homemade)
– Lollipop sticks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled cake, milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll out the mixture to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut into shapes.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm. Allow to cool completely.
5. Melt confectioners’ sugar and coconut in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
6. Dip each cake shape into the toasted coconut mixture, then dip into creamy frosting.
7. Insert lollipop stick and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
German Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Rich and decadent, this German Chocolate Sheet Cake is a perfect treat for any occasion. Moist chocolate cake, gooey caramel, and toasted pecans come together in a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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 (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cake cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Chocolate Mousse Cake with Dark Chocolate Shavings
Rich and decadent, this German Chocolate Mousse Cake is a showstopper that’s sure to impress. Moist chocolate cake meets creamy coconut custard and topped with dark chocolate shavings for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Freshly grated coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the mousse.
5. Combine sweetened condensed milk, dark chocolate chips, and whipped cream in a bowl. Fold until well combined.
6. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, top with mousse, and repeat with second cake layer.
7. Top with freshly grated coconut and dark chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes (cake) + assembly time
German Chocolate Mug Cake with Coconut Pecan Topping
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and decadent mug cake, topped with a crunchy coconut pecan mixture. Perfect for a quick dessert fix or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Coconut Pecan Topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chocolate chips.
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute and 15 seconds to 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Top with Coconut Pecan Topping (see below).
Coconut Pecan Topping:
– 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Mix all ingredients together until well combined. Sprinkle over warm cake.
German Chocolate Tart with Chocolate Shortbread Crust
German Chocolate Tart with Chocolate Shortbread Crust
Experience the rich flavors of Germany with this decadent tart, featuring a velvety chocolate filling and crumbly shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
For the shortbread crust:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the shortbread crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and cocoa powder. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
7. Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
German Chocolate Whoopie Pies with Coconut Filling
These moist and decadent whoopie pies combine the flavors of German chocolate cake, creamy coconut filling, and sweet whipped cream. Perfect for a special treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
For the filling:
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before filling.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich and decadent world of German chocolate cakes! This collection of 18 mouthwatering recipes offers something for everyone, from classic cakes with creamy frostings to vegan and gluten-free options. Try your hand at making German Chocolate Cupcakes with Caramel Drizzle or German Chocolate Cake Cookies with Coconut Filling. Or go all out with a German Chocolate Cheesecake or Ice Cream Cake. Whatever your taste buds desire, this article has the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.
