German Chocolate Sheet Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich and indulgent German Chocolate Sheet Cake featuring coconut, pecans, and a creamy frosting, perfect for dessert gatherings and chocolate lovers alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup coconut
  • 1 cup pecans
  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 stick margarine
  • 1 (8 oz.) cream cheese
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
  2. Mix the German chocolate cake mix according to the package directions, substituting milk for water.
  3. Sprinkle coconut and pecans evenly in the prepared pan.
  4. Pour the prepared cake batter over the coconut and pecans in the pan.
  5. Melt the cream cheese and margarine together until smooth.
  6. Add powdered sugar and vanilla to the melted mixture.
  7. Mix well until smooth and easy to pour.
  8. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
  9. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut extract to the batter. If you don't have pecans, walnuts can be an excellent substitute. Ensure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing, and if you prefer a lighter version, use half cream cheese and half Greek yogurt. For extra texture, toast the coconut and pecans before adding them to the cake.

Serving Suggestions

This German Chocolate Sheet Cake is best served at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It also complements a cup of coffee or tea perfectly. For a delightful breakfast treat, consider serving it alongside Raspberry Buttermilk Muffins.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Enjoy it cold or warm, as both options are delightful!

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Chocolate Sheet Cake contains roughly 724 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 573mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).

724 kcal 36% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.1g 6% DV
Total Fat 63.4g 81% DV
Carbs 27.2g 10% DV
Fiber 3.9g 14% DV
Sugar 18.4g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 573.5mg 25% DV
Potassium 140.4mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 35.6mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 57.6mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 54mg 4% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 this cake a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. If you want to serve it warm, just reheat individual pieces as mentioned in the storage instructions.

What can I use instead of margarine?

If you prefer not to use margarine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil. Both options will work well and maintain the cake's moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying, or reheat directly from the freezer in the microwave.

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).

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