Mama Lous Cake
A rich, indulgent cake featuring layers of German chocolate, coconut, and pecans, topped with a creamy frosting—perfect for celebrations or a special treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a large pan, larger than 13 x 9-inch.
- Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to package instructions and pour into the greased pan.
- Bake the cake as directed and let it cool completely.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine and combine with coconut and pecans to make the topping.
- Spread the pecan-coconut mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the confectioners sugar to the cream cheese, mixing well to make the frosting.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the pecan-coconut topping and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the topping. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the margarine with unsalted butter. To enhance the coconut flavor, use sweetened shredded coconut. If you don't have a German chocolate cake mix, a chocolate cake mix can also work, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mama Lou's Cake as a delightful dessert after a family meal or at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside savory dishes like honey granola bread or Mama's Sweet Potato Puffs for a balanced menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To serve, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting. You can also warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer a slightly warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama Lous Cake contains roughly 1096 calories, with 11g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 748mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a regular chocolate or even a vanilla cake mix. However, this will alter the flavor and texture of the cake slightly. Adjust the toppings accordingly to enhance the flavor.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make Mama Lou's Cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the confectioners' sugar and cream cheese, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the cake without gluten concerns.
What can I do if I don't have cream cheese?
If you don't have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for the frosting. While the flavor will differ slightly, these alternatives will still provide a creamy texture to complement the pecan-coconut topping.
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).