Unusual Chocolate Cake
A rich and unusual chocolate cake layered with coconut and pecans, topped with creamy cream cheese blobs that turn golden. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer coconut and chopped pecans on the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to package directions.
- Pour the prepared cake batter over the coconut and pecan layer.
- Melt the margarine and combine with the cream cheese and powdered sugar to make the topping mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the cake batter in random blobs.
- Bake at 350°F until the cream cheese blobs turn golden brown or disappear, about 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut or toasting the pecans before adding them to the cake. If you don't have margarine, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. To make it a bit healthier, try using a sugar-free German chocolate cake mix or reducing the powdered sugar in the topping mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This unusual chocolate cake is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an even more decadent treat, consider serving it alongside Chocolate Fudge By Mama Lois.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unusual Chocolate Cake contains roughly 410 calories, with 2g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or vanilla, to create your own unique twist on this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so adjust the toppings if necessary.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the labels of all other ingredients, like powdered sugar, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
What if I don't have cream cheese?
If you don't have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or ricotta as a substitute. They will provide a similar creamy texture, but the flavor will be slightly different. You could also try a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan option.
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).