German Chocolate Pound Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich, chocolatey base of a pound cake with the irresistible coconut-pecan topping traditionally found on German chocolate cake. This cake is the perfect blend of moist, buttery cake and the nutty, caramel-like topping that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself to an indulgent dessert, this recipe delivers elegance and comfort in one delicious package.
The beauty of this pound cake lies in its versatility—it can be dressed up for fancy dinner parties or served simply with a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate its already luxurious flavors. If you’re a fan of sweet and creamy desserts, be sure to try our Cinnamon Roll Pound Cake, which offers a swirled, spiced twist on the classic pound cake.
Let this German Chocolate Pound Cake become your go-to dessert for any occasion, blending timeless flavors with a modern twist that everyone will adore.
Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe
1. Classic Flavors, Elevated
This cake combines the timeless appeal of German chocolate with the dense, rich texture of a pound cake, making it a luxurious yet familiar dessert.
2. Moist and Decadent
The cake’s buttery, chocolatey crumb paired with the gooey coconut-pecan topping ensures every bite is moist and indulgent.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings, this pound cake is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s elegant enough for formal events yet comforting enough for family dinners.
4. Easy to Customize
You can easily tweak this recipe by adding chocolate chips, drizzling with ganache, or even using a bundt pan for a dramatic presentation.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly
The cake stores beautifully, making it an excellent choice for prepping ahead of parties or as a dessert gift for friends and family.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 38g
Ingredients for German Chocolate Pound Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coconut-Pecan Topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions for German Chocolate Pound Cake
Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or loaf pan.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine with Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Baking the Cake:
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Coconut-Pecan Topping:
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add Brown Sugar and Cream: Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
- Incorporate Coconut and Pecans: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Let cool for 5 minutes before spooning over the cooled cake.
Ingredient Background
Butter
Butter forms the base of this pound cake, ensuring a moist crumb and rich flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final product.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
This provides the chocolate flavor for the cake. Opt for high-quality cocoa powder for the best results.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk adds tanginess and moisture, helping the cake achieve a tender texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Sweetened Coconut
Shredded coconut is the star of the topping, adding sweetness and chewiness to contrast the dense cake.
Pecans
Chopped pecans bring crunch and a nutty flavor to the topping, complementing the sweetness of the coconut and caramelized brown sugar.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar in the topping creates a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate cake base.
Technique Tips for the Best German Chocolate Pound Cake
Cream Butter and Sugar Thoroughly
Beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy incorporates air, which helps the cake rise and achieve a tender crumb.
Sift Dry Ingredients
Sifting the dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed, resulting in a uniform batter.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense texture.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Bringing your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
Let the Topping Cool Slightly
Allow the coconut-pecan topping to cool for a few minutes before spooning it over the cake to prevent it from running off.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Mini German Chocolate Cakes
Divide the batter into individual mini bundt pans or muffin tins for personal-sized cakes. Top each with a dollop of the coconut-pecan topping for an elegant and portioned dessert.
German Chocolate Layer Cake
Bake the batter in two 8-inch round pans to create a layer cake. Spread the coconut-pecan topping between the layers and on top for a dramatic presentation.
Ice Cream Sundae Base
Use slices of the pound cake as a base for an indulgent sundae. Top with vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
German Chocolate Trifle
Cube the cake and layer it in a trifle dish with whipped cream, chocolate ganache, and the coconut-pecan topping for a show-stopping centerpiece.
Toasted Cake Slices
Toast slices of the pound cake in a skillet with a little butter for a caramelized crust. Serve with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar for a sophisticated twist.
Freezing and Storing German Chocolate Pound Cake
Storing Leftovers
Room Temperature:
To keep the cake fresh at room temperature, store it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This prevents the cake from drying out and helps maintain its moist texture. It can be stored this way for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the topping thoroughly to preserve its rich and creamy consistency.
Refrigeration:
For extended storage, place the cake in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container or cover it well with plastic wrap or foil to lock in the flavors and moisture. The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Freezing Instructions
German Chocolate Pound Cake freezes exceptionally well, making it a great option for preparing ahead or saving leftovers.
- Cool Completely:
Ensure the cake has cooled completely to prevent condensation from forming, which could affect the texture when thawed. - Wrap Securely:
Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. For added protection, place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container. - Label and Freeze:
Label the container with the date and contents. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture.
Reheating Tips
Microwave:
Thaw individual slices at room temperature, then microwave them for 10–15 seconds. This quick reheating method restores warmth and softens the cake, making it taste freshly baked.
Oven:
For a slightly crisp exterior, reheat slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven. Place the cake on a baking sheet and warm for 5–7 minutes. This method is ideal for restoring the cake’s original texture, especially if it was frozen.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Use Whole Wheat Flour
Replacing half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients to the cake while maintaining a moist and tender crumb. The nutty flavor of whole wheat flour pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate and pecan topping.
Lighten the Topping
For a healthier topping, reduce the amount of butter and brown sugar. Replace some of the sweetness with natural alternatives like honey or maple syrup. This tweak cuts down on refined sugar without compromising the indulgent flavor.
Replace Some Butter with Applesauce
Swap out half of the butter in the cake batter for unsweetened applesauce. This not only lowers the fat content but also keeps the cake incredibly moist and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
Low-Fat Dairy Options
Substitute heavy cream in the topping with evaporated milk or half-and-half for a lighter option. This adjustment reduces calories while maintaining the topping’s rich and creamy texture.
Reduce Sugar in the Cake Batter
Cut back on the sugar in the cake batter by about ¼ cup. The natural sweetness of the chocolate and the topping will still shine through, making this an easy way to enjoy the cake with fewer calories.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Family Celebrations
Serve the cake as a show-stopping centerpiece for birthdays or anniversaries. Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat that everyone will love.
Holiday Gatherings
Elevate the cake’s festive appeal by garnishing it with sugared pecans, edible gold dust, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pair it with spiced cider, hot chocolate, or eggnog for a quintessential holiday dessert that delights guests.
Afternoon Tea Parties
Slice the cake into elegant, thin wedges and serve alongside freshly brewed coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. Add a platter of assorted cookies, macarons, or scones to create a sophisticated tea-time spread.
Potluck Parties
Transport this cake to potlucks in a decorative cake carrier for an eye-catching addition to the dessert table. Offer optional toppings like whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or fresh berries, allowing guests to customize their servings.
Romantic Dinners
Pair slices of the cake with a glass of dessert wine or a robust espresso for an intimate and indulgent end to a romantic meal. Complement the rich chocolate flavor with chocolate-dipped strawberries or a small serving of dark chocolate truffles for an added touch of elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought German chocolate topping?
Yes, store-bought topping can save time, but making it from scratch offers a richer, more authentic flavor.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake up to 2 days in advance. Add the topping on the day you plan to serve for the freshest presentation.
3. Can I freeze the coconut-pecan topping?
It’s possible to freeze the topping separately. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and stir well before using.
4. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure.
5. What’s the best way to ensure the cake doesn’t stick to the pan?
Grease the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, and dust it lightly with flour or cocoa powder. A parchment paper liner also helps.
6. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Yes, folding in ½ to 1 cup of chocolate chips adds extra bursts of chocolate flavor throughout the cake.
7. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Replace the butter with vegan butter, and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. Ensure the chocolate used is dairy-free as well.
8. Is there a similar recipe I can try?
For a spiced and equally indulgent dessert, check out our Cinnamon Roll Pound Cake, a delicious twist on classic pound cake flavors.
Conclusion
German Chocolate Pound Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of rich flavors, nostalgic comfort, and elegant presentation. From the moist chocolate cake to the decadent coconut-pecan topping, every bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and indulgence.
This versatile recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or an intimate celebration. Its ability to be customized and made ahead makes it a reliable favorite for both novice and experienced bakers.
Add German Chocolate Pound Cake to your recipe repertoire and enjoy a timeless treat that combines tradition with irresistible flavor. It’s a dessert guaranteed to impress and delight with every slice!