German chocolate pecan pound cake recipe

Looking for a dessert to wow your loved ones? Try the German chocolate pecan pound cake recipe. It’s a Southern gem, packed with unsalted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder. Its rich flavors and soft texture make it a hit.

To whip up this cake, you’ll need 1 1/2 cups of unsalted butter, 2 3/4 cups of sugar, and 5 eggs at room temperature. Also, 2 1/4 cups of flour and 3/4 cup of cocoa powder are needed. This recipe might take some time, but it’s worth it.

Key Takeaways

• Use high-quality ingredients like unsalted butter and unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
• Bake the cake at 325-degrees F for 70 to 80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Top the cake with a delicious coconut pecan icing made with 3/4 cup of chopped raw pecans and 1 1/2 cups of sweetened coconut flakes.
• Experiment with different ingredient proportions, like 4 eggs, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 1⅓ cups of water or milk, to find your perfect German chocolate pecan pound cake recipe.
• Consider using a German chocolate cake mix and coconut pecan icing for a quicker and easier dessert option.

The Rich History of German Chocolate Cake

Before you start making your german chocolate pound cake, let’s explore its history. German chocolate cake has been around for over a century. It was first made with German’s Sweet Chocolate, created by Samuel German in 1852. This chocolate is key to the cake’s flavor, and we’ll use it in our recipe.

The transformation of german chocolate cake into a pound cake is an interesting tale. Bakers experimented with new ingredients and methods. Our recipe stands out because it uses 4 ounces of Baker’s German’s sweet chocolate. It also includes 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of sugar, making the cake moist and tender.

Origins of German’s Sweet Chocolate

German’s Sweet Chocolate was introduced by Samuel German in 1852. It was special because it had more sugar than other chocolates. This sweetness made it ideal for baking, becoming a favorite in german chocolate cake.

Evolution into a Pound Cake Version

As german chocolate cake evolved, bakers tried new things. They added pecans, which gave the cake a nice texture and taste. Our recipe takes this evolution further, creating a moist and flavorful cake perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

So, what makes our german chocolate pound cake recipe special? It’s the unique mix of ingredients and techniques. From the 4 ounces of Baker’s German’s sweet chocolate to the 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of sugar, each part is essential. This recipe is a must-try for any baker, whether you’re experienced or just starting out.

Essential Ingredients for Your German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake Recipe

To make a delicious german chocolate pecan pound cake, you’ll need several ingredients. The german chocolate pound cake recipe calls for all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and pecans. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need:

The recipe takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. This includes 20 minutes of prep, 45 minutes of cooking, and 45 minutes for cooling. You’ll need:

• 2 cups (250g) of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400g) of granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (60g) of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon (6g) of fine salt
• 1 cup (240g) of warm water
• 1/2 cup (120g) of buttermilk
• 1/2 cup (128g) of sour cream
• 1 cup (226g) of unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 teaspoons (8g) of vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

These ingredients will help you make a moist and tasty german chocolate pecan pound cake recipe. Always choose high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make a delicious german chocolate pound cake, you need the right tools. The baking pan you choose can change the cake’s taste and look. For a rich german chocolate pecan pound cake, a 10-inch bundt pan is best.

A stand or hand mixer is key for mixing the batter and frosting. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements. Accurate measurements are key in baking, as they impact the cake’s texture and taste.

Baking Pan Requirements

A 10-inch bundt pan is ideal for a german chocolate pound cake. If you don’t have one, two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans will work too. Just remember to adjust the baking time based on the pan size.

Mixing Equipment

A stand or hand mixer is essential for mixing the batter and frosting. You’ll also need a whisk and a rubber spatula to get every bit of batter.

Additional Tools

For a decadent german chocolate pecan pound cake, you’ll need more than just a baking pan and mixing tools. Here’s what else you’ll need:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• A whisk
• A rubber spatula
• A cooling rack

Preparing Your Ingredients and Workspace

To make your german chocolate pecan pound cake recipe a success, start by measuring out the ingredients. You’ll need 2 cups of flour, 2 cups of sugar, and 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Also, have 1/2 cup of buttermilk and 1/2 cup of sour cream ready at room temperature.

Then, get your workspace ready. You’ll need a 10-inch Bundt pan with a 10-cup capacity. Grease the pan well to avoid the cake sticking. Have a mixing bowl, whisk, and electric mixer ready. This will make baking easier and faster.

Here are some key ingredients to have ready:

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of warm water
• 1/2 cup of chopped pecans

With everything ready, you can focus on mixing and baking. This will help you make a delicious and moist german chocolate pound cake.

Step-by-Step Mixing and Baking Instructions

To make a tasty german chocolate pound cake, first heat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This helps your cake bake evenly. Then, get ready your ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of unsalted butter, and 2 cups of white sugar.

Now, let’s mix everything together. In a big bowl, mix the butter and sugar for 3-5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. In another bowl, mix the flour and 1 cup of chopped german chocolate. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of sour cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.

After the batter is smooth, add 1 cup of toasted pecans. Pour the batter into a 10-inch bundt pan and bake for 60-70 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make a moist and delicious cake, don’t overmix the batter. Also, don’t open the oven door during baking, as it can make the cake sink. With these tips and the right ingredients, you’ll make a cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

Making the German Chocolate Pecan Topping

To finish your german chocolate pecan pound cake, you must make the German chocolate pecan topping. This topping is key to the cake’s unique flavor. It makes the german chocolate pecan pound cake stand out from other desserts.

To make the topping, you’ll toast pecans and prepare a coconut frosting. First, toast 1 cup of chopped pecans in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. They should be lightly browned and smell great.

While the pecans toast, start on the coconut frosting. You’ll need 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1/2 cup of evaporated milk, 2 large egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Keep cooking until it thickens and turns a light amber color.

Toasting the Pecans

To toast the pecans, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned and smell good. Watch them closely to avoid burning.

Preparing the Coconut Frosting

To make the coconut frosting, mix the shredded coconut, evaporated milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and turns a light amber color. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

After toasting the pecans and preparing the coconut frosting, you can put the topping together. Just mix the toasted pecans and coconut frosting in a bowl until well combined. This topping is the perfect finish for your german chocolate pecan pound cake recipe.

Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues

When baking a decadent german chocolate pecan pound cake, you might face some common problems. We’ve listed possible causes and solutions to help you fix these issues.

A german chocolate pound cake can be sensitive to ingredient ratios and baking conditions. For instance, using store brand sugar can add up to 5% more sugar per cup than name brand sugar. This can increase the risk of cake collapse by 20-25%. Also, store brand butter may have up to 10% more liquid fat than name brands. This can change the cake’s texture and weight.

Some common issues and their solutions include:

• Overbeating eggs can lead to a 15-20% increase in the risk of overflow during baking. It can also make the crust fragile and crumbly.
• Not cooling the cake enough can cause it to break apart after baking.
• Using the wrong oven temperature can affect the cake’s baking characteristics and rising.

To avoid these issues, it’s important to follow the recipe carefully. Pay attention to the possible pitfalls. This way, you can make a delicious and moist german chocolate pound cake that will impress everyone.

Baking is an art that needs patience and attention to detail. With practice and experience, you’ll learn to fix common baking problems. You’ll be able to make a decadent german chocolate pecan pound cake that’s perfect every time.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After baking your german chocolate pecan pound cake, it’s key to store it right. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can keep it at room temperature for 4 to 5 days or in the fridge for 7 to 8 days.

Wrap your cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. Freezing it for up to 6 months is also an option. To serve, thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven at 300 degrees F for a few minutes.

Proper Storage Methods

Here are some tips for storing your german chocolate pecan pound cake recipe:

• Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh
• Keep the cake away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Freeze the cake for up to 6 months for longer storage

Reheating Tips

To reheat your german chocolate pound cake, place it in the oven at 300 degrees F for a few minutes. You can also warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Serving Recommendations

When serving your german chocolate pecan pound cake, slice it into pieces. Top with whipped cream or chopped nuts. Enjoy with coffee or tea for a perfect dessert.

Conclusion

Baking a German chocolate pecan pound cake is a true labor of love. It has rich, decadent flavors and a moist, tender crumb. This makes it a true showstopper.

The perfect balance of chocolate, coconut, and toasted pecans makes it a must-try. It’s perfect for any dessert enthusiast.

Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a treat, this German chocolate pecan pound cake will delight. Every bite is a taste of heaven. We hope you found this recipe and guide helpful.

Now, it’s time to get baking. Put on your apron, preheat your oven, and let the baking begin. Enjoy the process, the aromas, and share this delightful German chocolate pecan pound cake with your loved ones. Bon appétit!

FAQ

What is a German chocolate pecan pound cake?

A German chocolate pecan pound cake is a rich dessert. It combines German chocolate cake with a moist pound cake. The cake is topped with a sweet pecan-coconut frosting.

What is the history behind German chocolate cake?

German chocolate cake has a long history. It started in the 19th century with German’s Sweet Chocolate. Today, it’s a pound cake version, loved by many.

What are the key ingredients in a German chocolate pecan pound cake?

The main ingredients are flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and pecans. Using top-quality ingredients is key for the best taste and texture.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this cake?

You’ll need a baking pan, mixing bowls, and a mixer. The right tools can make a big difference in your cake.

How do I properly prepare the ingredients and workspace for baking?

Before baking, measure all ingredients and have them ready. Make sure your workspace is clean and organized. This makes baking easier.

What are the steps for mixing and baking the cake?

Mixing and baking the cake involves a few key steps. Create the perfect batter, bake correctly, and check for doneness. These steps ensure a moist and tasty cake.

How do I make the German chocolate pecan topping?

The topping is a key part of the cake. It includes toasting pecans and making a rich coconut frosting. Assembling and applying the topping is important.

What are some common baking issues I might encounter, and how can I troubleshoot them?

Issues like a dense or dry cake can happen. But with patience and attention, you can fix these problems. Knowing how to solve these issues will help you make a perfect cake.

How should I store and serve the German chocolate pecan pound cake?

Storing and serving the cake right is important. We’ll give tips on how to keep it fresh and flavorful. We’ll also show you how to reheat and present it beautifully.