German Chocolate Dump Cake
German Chocolate Dump Cake offers rich chocolate flavor combined with coconut and pecans, topped with a creamy cheese layer, making it a decadent dessert suitable for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch oblong cake pan.
- Line the bottom of the pan with coconut and chopped pecans.
- Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the box directions.
- Pour the prepared cake mixture into the pan over the coconut and pecans.
- Mix the softened Philadelphia cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
- Bake as directed on the cake mix box.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt as a substitute. To enhance the texture, toast the pecans before adding them to the cake for added crunch. This German Chocolate Dump Cake can also be adapted by using different nut varieties or adding chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of extra toasted pecans on top adds a nice finish. For a festive touch, pair it with fresh berries or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover German Chocolate Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, being careful not to overheat, as the cream cheese layer can become too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Chocolate Dump Cake contains roughly 277 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dump cake a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, or reheat individual slices in the microwave.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for German chocolate cake mix, you can substitute it with a classic chocolate or even a vanilla cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that the taste and texture will vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dump cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the cream cheese and powdered sugar, are also gluten-free to keep the entire dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).