Fast German Chocolate Cake
A rich, moist German Chocolate Cake featuring coconut, pecans, and creamy frosting, perfect for celebrations or indulgent gatherings with a delicious blend of chocolate and nuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 13 x 9-inch pan with Pam.
- Spread coconut and chopped pecans over the bottom of the pan.
- Mix the German chocolate cake mix as instructed on the box.
- Pour the cake batter over the coconut and pecans in the pan.
- Soften the butter and cream cheese.
- Mix the softened butter and cream cheese with the confectioners sugar to create the frosting.
- Pour the frosting mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake batter. You can substitute the chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred. If you're short on time, using pre-made frosting can save you a step, but the homemade cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional pecans or coconut for a decorative touch. This dessert pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside a refreshing slice of Shirley'S Easy Lime Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice individual pieces and microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warm. This helps maintain the moistness of the cake while softening the frosting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fast German Chocolate Cake contains roughly 426 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste. If you prefer, you can frost it just before serving for a fresh look.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While German chocolate cake mix gives a unique flavor, you can use a basic chocolate or devil's food cake mix as a substitute. However, this may alter the traditional taste slightly, so adjust the frosting ingredients if needed to maintain balance.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Baking times may vary, so start checking around the 30-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).