If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts, German chocolate pound cake is the ultimate delight. Combining the decadence of German chocolate cake with the buttery richness of pound cake, this recipe offers a dense yet moist texture brimming with flavor. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just because, this cake is guaranteed to impress your friends and family.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the origins, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for making the best German chocolate pound cake. Additionally, you’ll find serving tips, FAQs, and ways to make your cake truly stand out. If you enjoy exploring more baked goods, you might also love these brown butter pecan cookies or this lemon cream cheese dump cake.
What is German Chocolate Pound Cake?
At its core, German chocolate pound cake is a hybrid dessert that marries the flavors of German chocolate cake with the density and buttery richness of pound cake. Despite its name, the cake is not German—it’s named after Samuel German, an American chocolatier who created a type of sweet baking chocolate specifically for desserts.
The pound cake aspect brings a delightful crumb and structure to the traditional German chocolate flavors of sweet chocolate, coconut, and pecans. Therefore, this cake is perfect for those who love both traditional pound cakes and chocolatey desserts.
For a deeper dive into the history of German chocolate cake, you can check out this article on its origins.
Ingredients for German Chocolate Pound Cake
This cake uses a combination of pantry staples and specialty ingredients to create its signature flavor.
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 oz German sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans
How to Make German Chocolate Pound Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
To start, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 10-inch Bundt pan. Dust the pan with flour for easy removal. Then, in a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Afterward, mix in the vanilla extract and melted German chocolate.
Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients for better incorporation.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Bake the cake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling
To prepare the filling, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Once done, remove it from heat and stir in the shredded coconut and pecans. Allow the mixture to cool before spreading it on the cake.
Tips for Perfect German Chocolate Pound Cake
Achieving the best results for this cake requires attention to detail.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk ensures a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check Early: Since oven temperatures can vary, it’s always a good idea to start checking your cake at the 60-minute mark.
Serving Suggestions
This cake shines on its own, but pairing it with complementary additions can make it even more special. For example:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream balances the cake’s richness.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or coconut ice cream adds a creamy contrast.
- Drinks: Serve with coffee, a latte, or even a glass of milk for a classic pairing.
For more pairing inspiration, you might want to explore these pecan pie pumpkin cheesecakes or these cracker cakes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The German chocolate pound cake is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans is unbeatable.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a special treat.
- Impressive Presentation: The Bundt shape and glossy topping make it visually stunning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Makes a German Chocolate Cake Different?
German chocolate cake features sweet chocolate, coconut, and pecans, setting it apart from other chocolate cakes.
What Makes a Pound Cake Different from a Regular Cake?
Pound cake is denser and richer due to its high butter and sugar content, compared to regular cakes.
What is German Cake Called?
It’s named “German chocolate cake” after Samuel German, the creator of its signature sweet chocolate.
Why is My Chocolate Pound Cake Dry?
Overbaking or not measuring ingredients properly can lead to a dry cake. Ensure accurate measurements and timing.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try German Chocolate Pound Cake
The German chocolate pound cake offers the best of two worlds: the richness of pound cake and the signature flavors of German chocolate cake. Its unique blend of textures and flavors makes it a standout dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With this comprehensive recipe, you’ll have all the tools to create a show-stopping cake your guests will love.
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