Melissa'S Cake
A rich, layered cake featuring coconut, pecans, and a German chocolate base, topped with a creamy, sweet frosting—perfect for celebrations and dessert lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix coconut and chopped pecans and place in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the directions on the box. Pour the batter over the coconut and pecan mixture.
- In a saucepan, melt the cream cheese and butter together.
- Remove from heat and stir in the confectioners sugar until smooth, then spoon over the cake batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecans before mixing them with the coconut. If you don't have German chocolate cake mix, a regular chocolate cake mix can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the taste slightly. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. For an added twist, you can mix in some chocolate chips to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Melissa's Cake warm from the oven or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider drizzling caramel sauce on top. This cake is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and it complements well with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until heated through. For a warm treat, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Melissa'S Cake contains roughly 2075 calories, with 10g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 181g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 17g 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 in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it cool completely before covering it. The flavors will meld beautifully if made a day prior, but be cautious not to let it sit too long to maintain its best texture.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of this cake. Just keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess of the topping slightly. Also, ensure it is softened for easy mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
What can I do if the cake is too sweet?
If you find the cake too sweet, consider serving it with a tart fruit compote or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness. You can also reduce the amount of confectioners sugar in the cream cheese topping, adjusting to your taste preference.
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).