German Upside-Down Chocolate Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Indulge in a delightful twist on dessert with this German Upside-Down Chocolate Cake. Combining rich chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy nuts, this cake is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Its unique presentation adds an element of surprise, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 c. coconut
  • 1 c. chopped nuts
  • 1/2 c. oleo or butter
  • 8 oz. cream cheese
  • 1 lb. powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Spread a 9 x 13-inch pan with Pam.
  2. Mix nuts and coconut together.
  3. Spread in bottom of pan.
  4. Mix cake mix according to directions.
  5. Pour over coconut and nut mixture.
  6. Mix butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar together.
  7. Spoon over batter and swirl around.
  8. Bake at 350° for 50 minutes.
  9. Turn upside-down onto a plate while hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate cake mix instead of the standard German chocolate mix. You can substitute margarine for oleo if needed. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with additional coconut. Make sure to beat the cream cheese until smooth before mixing with the butter and powdered sugar to avoid lumps.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with Fudge Sauce (Hot Or Cold) for an indulgent treat. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Light Confetti Appetizer for a delightful dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm. Enjoy it slightly warmed for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Upside-Down Chocolate Cake contains roughly 418 calories, with 4g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

418 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.1g 8% DV
Total Fat 23.8g 31% DV
Carbs 50.3g 18% DV
Fiber 6.4g 23% DV
Sugar 29g 58% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 148.2mg 6% DV
Potassium 319.3mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 27.6mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 1.3mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 50.5mg 4% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk

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. After baking, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply reheat individual slices as needed for the best taste.

What if I don't have a 9 x 13-inch pan?

If you don't have a 9 x 13-inch pan, you can use a similarly sized baking dish or divide the batter into two 9-inch round cake pans. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for German chocolate cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla to create a unique twist. Just ensure the mix is compatible with the other ingredients for the best results.

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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