German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting

German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting is a delightful dessert that brings together rich chocolate and nutty flavors in a moist cake. Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, this cake impresses with its unique combination of textures and tastes. The luscious coconut-pecan frosting elevates this treat, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of chocolate and coconut creates a decadent taste that satisfies sweet cravings.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and butter, this pound cake remains incredibly moist.
• Versatile Presentation: Serve it as a whole cake or layer it for an elegant dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve success.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt or tube pan (or 2 loaf pans)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt or tube pan: This pan shape allows even baking and creates beautiful presentation.
• Electric mixer: It saves time and energy when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture and flavor in your cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 120ml vegetable oil
• 2 cups (500g) granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 45g unsweetened cocoa powder
• baking soda (as needed)
• salt (as needed)
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
• 4 oz (113g) German sweet chocolate, melted and cooled

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

• 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 113g unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

How to Make German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325F (163C). Grease and flour your bundt or tube pan, or prepare two loaf pans for baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until fluffy. This should take about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture. Ensure each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter. Start by adding some dry ingredients, then pour in half of the buttermilk. Repeat this process until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Begin and end with dry ingredients.

Step 6: Add Melted Chocolate

Stir in the melted German chocolate until fully incorporated into the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s). Bake for 75-85 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cooling Down

Cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make Coconut-Pecan Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook while stirring constantly until it thickens—this will take about 10-12 minutes.

Step 10: Add Flavorings

Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract along with shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Let it cool slightly until it’s spreadable; remember it will thicken more as it cools.

Step 11: Assemble Your Cake

Once your pound cake has cooled completely, generously spread or pour the coconut-pecan frosting over the top. If using loaf or round pans, consider slicing them into layers for an elegant presentation with frosting between layers.

Enjoy every bite of your delicious German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting!

How to Serve German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting

Serving your German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting can be a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a decorative plate for a classic presentation.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to enhance flavors.

Dessert Platter

• Create a stunning dessert platter by arranging slices of the cake alongside fresh fruits like berries or slices of kiwi.
• This adds color and freshness, making it visually appealing and inviting.

Layered Cake Style

• If you baked in loaf pans, consider splitting the cake into layers.
• Add frosting between the layers for an impressive, tiered look that showcases the coconut-pecan frosting.

With Fresh Fruits

• Pair slices of cake with seasonal fruits such as strawberries or oranges.
• The acidity from the fruit complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
• The rich flavor of coffee enhances the chocolate notes in the pound cake.

How to Perfect German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting

Perfecting your German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting can elevate your baking game. Here are some essential tips for success.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off with a knife to avoid dense cake.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cake to cool fully so that the frosting doesn’t melt off.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your German Chocolate Pound Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a refreshing contrast to sweet chocolate.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream melts beautifully against warm cake, creating a deliciously indulgent treat.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream balances the dense richness of the pound cake perfectly.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over slices for an extra chocolatey experience that satisfies cravings.
5. Mint Leaves: Garnish each plate with fresh mint leaves for added color and a hint of freshness.
6. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel adds another layer of flavor that complements both chocolate and coconut notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking your German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly skip the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can lead to a dense cake. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Boldly rush the creaming process: Creaming butter, oil, and sugar for less than 5 minutes can result in a heavy cake. Take your time to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
• Boldly overlook the oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Boldly ignore baking times: Every oven is different; relying solely on the timer may lead to undercooked or overbaked cake. Use a skewer to check doneness and adjust baking time as needed.
• Boldly skip cooling time: Cutting into a warm cake can result in crumbling. Allow your cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• If you have leftover frosting, store it separately in another airtight container.

Freezing German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 15-20 seconds, adding more time as needed.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

Can I use different nuts in the frosting?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

What is the best way to melt chocolate?

Chop the chocolate into small pieces and melt it gently using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a skewer; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready!

How long does this cake last?

Your German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting will last up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months frozen.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends suitable for baking.

Final Thoughts

This German Chocolate Pound Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting is not only rich and decadent but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding different nuts or experimenting with frostings. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe — it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!