How to Make a Moist and Delicious German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake

Introduction

Imagine a portion of warm German chocolate pecan pound cake on your plate, garnished with toasted pecans and a layer of thick coconut frosting. This dessert is more than simply a pleasure; it’s a culinary masterpiece that elevates any event with its warmth, joy, and decadence.

Making a German chocolate pecan pound cake that will impress your family and guests is made easy with these instructions. You’ll have everything you need to make this dish a show-stopper, from tricks for making the ideal crumb to the recipe for the traditional frosting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A Perfect Blend of Flavors

The nutty crunch of pecans pairs beautifully with the deep chocolate base, while the coconut frosting adds a buttery sweetness that ties everything together.

2. Moist and Tender Texture

This pound cake achieves the ideal balance between dense and soft, thanks to buttermilk and precise ingredient ratios.

3. An Elegant Presentation

With its glossy coconut frosting and toasted pecan garnish, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients for German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake

Cake Ingredients

Frosting Ingredients

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Grease and flour your bundt pan, ensuring every crevice is coated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Sifting the ingredients ensures they’re evenly distributed and prevents lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This method gives the batter a lighter texture by incorporating air into it.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

• Add the eggs one by one, beating until thoroughly combined before adding the next.
• Gradually blend in melted chocolate and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• In the butter mixture, alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk.
• To keep the batter from curdling, begin and finish with the dry ingredients.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans and Coconut

Using a spatula, gently fold in the toasted pecans and shredded coconut. This adds texture and flavor to every bite.

Step 7: Bake

After the bundt pan is ready, pour the mixture into it and bake it for 65 to 75 minutes. Begin checking for doneness at the 65-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake.

Crafting the Classic Coconut-Pecan Frosting

The frosting is what makes this cake truly iconic. Here’s how to achieve perfection:

Step 1: Cook the Base

Put the butter, sugar, egg yolks, and evaporated milk in a medium pot. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens (about 10–12 minutes).

Step 2: Add Texture

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract, sweetened coconut flakes, and toasted pecans. Spread the frosting over the chilled cake after letting it cool slightly.

Step 3: Frost the Cake

Evenly cover the cake’s edges and top with icing. For added visual appeal, sprinkle extra pecans or coconut flakes on top.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh eggs, high-quality butter, and German chocolate will make a noticeable difference in flavor.

2. Don’t Overmix

Overmixing activates gluten, which can result in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

3. Check Your Oven Temperature

Use an oven thermometer to make sure precise baking because oven temperatures can vary.

4. Let the Cake Cool Completely

Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to slide off. Be patient and let it cool fully before decorating.

Baking Science: Why This Recipe Works

1. The Role of Buttermilk

Buttermilk adds moisture and acidity, which tenderizes the crumb and enhances the chocolate flavor.

2. Eggs as Emulsifiers

Eggs help bind the batter together, ensuring a smooth and uniform texture.

3. Toasting the Pecans

Toasting the pecans not only enhances their flavor but also prevents them from becoming soggy in the frosting.

Conclusion

German chocolate pecan pound cake is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a casual treat, this recipe will become a cherished favorite. With the perfect blend of chocolate, pecans, and coconut frosting, every bite is pure bliss.

Now it’s your turn to create this masterpiece. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and watch as your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of homemade goodness.

German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake

Discover the secrets to baking the best German chocolate pecan pound cake. This rich, moist recipe is easy to follow and ideal for chocolate lovers!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, German

Servings 12 Servings

Calories 398 kcal

Ingredients

  

Cake Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Unsalted butter softened
• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 4 large Eggs
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 4 ounces German sweet chocolate melted
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 1 cup Pecans toasted and chopped
• ¾ cup Sweetened shredded coconut

Frosting Ingredients

• 1 cup Evaporated milk
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 3 large Egg yolks
• ½ cup Unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 cup Sweetened coconut flakes
• 1 cup Toasted pecans

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Grease and flour your bundt pan, ensuring every crevice is coated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Sifting the ingredients ensures they’re evenly distributed and prevents lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This method gives the batter a lighter texture by incorporating air into it.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

• Add the eggs one by one, beating until thoroughly combined before adding the next.
• Gradually blend in melted chocolate and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• In the butter mixture, alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk.
• To keep the batter from curdling, begin and finish with the dry ingredients.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans and Coconut

• Using a spatula, gently fold in the toasted pecans and shredded coconut. This adds texture and flavor to every bite.

Step 7: Bake

• After the bundt pan is ready, pour the mixture into it and bake it for 65 to 75 minutes. Begin checking for doneness at the 65-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake.

Notes

Crafting the Classic Coconut-Pecan Frosting

The frosting is what makes this cake truly iconic. Here’s how to achieve perfection:

Step 1: Cook the Base

Put the butter, sugar, egg yolks, and evaporated milk in a medium pot. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens (about 10–12 minutes).

Step 2: Add Texture

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract, sweetened coconut flakes, and toasted pecans. Spread the frosting over the chilled cake after letting it cool slightly.

Step 3: Frost the Cake

Evenly cover the cake’s edges and top with icing. For added visual appeal, sprinkle extra pecans or coconut flakes on top.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh eggs, high-quality butter, and German chocolate will make a noticeable difference in flavor.

2. Don’t Overmix

Overmixing activates gluten, which can result in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

3. Check Your Oven Temperature

Use an oven thermometer to make sure precise baking because oven temperatures can vary.

4. Let the Cake Cool Completely

Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to slide off. Be patient and let it cool fully before decorating.

Keyword Chocolate Cake, German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake

Seasonal Variations

1. Valentine’s Day: Top the cake with heart-shaped chocolate pieces.
2. Christmas: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for a holiday twist.
3. Thanksgiving: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting for a warm, autumnal flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of milk.
• Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added elegance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Cold Ingredients

A smoother batter is produced when ingredients are mixed more evenly at room temperature.

2. Overbaking

Always check for doneness around the 65-minute mark to avoid a dry cake.

3. Skipping the Toasting Step

Toasted pecans elevate the flavor and provide a satisfying crunch.

History of German Chocolate Cake

Despite its name, German chocolate cake isn’t German. It’s named after Samuel German, an American chocolatier who developed the sweet baking chocolate used in the recipe. The cake gained popularity in the 1950s, thanks to a recipe published in a Texas newspaper, and it has since become a beloved classic.

Creative Decorating Ideas

• Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle it over the frosting for a professional finish.
• Edible Flowers: For a little flair, add edible flowers.
• Extra Toppings: Sprinkle additional toasted pecans or coconut flakes on top for texture and visual appeal.

FAQs