German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe That Melts Hearts

Indulging in a rich german chocolate cheesecake promises a delectable journey through creamy textures and nutty undertones.

Layers of decadent chocolate meld seamlessly with velvety cream cheese.

Sweet coconut and pecan embellishments add unexpected depth to each luxurious bite.

Chocolate lovers will swoon over this remarkable dessert that balances intense flavors with subtle complexity.

Baking skills matter less than passion when crafting this impressive treat.

Whispers of caramel and chocolate dance across your palate with each forkful.

Temptation awaits – you won’t be able to resist this extraordinary confection.

German Chocolate Cheesecake Deep Chocolate With Coconut Layers

  • Quick and Effortless Preparation: Simplify your baking with this recipe using boxed cake mix and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Decadent Flavor Combination: Indulge in the rich blend of cream cheese, coconut, and pecans that creates a luxurious dessert experience with every single bite.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Showstopper: Perfect for special occasions like birthdays, potlucks, or family gatherings, this cake will impress guests and become an instant favorite at any celebration.
  • Customizable Texture and Presentation: Easily adjust the garnish with extra coconut and pecans, allowing personal creativity and ensuring a stunning visual appeal that matches the incredible taste.

Chocolate Cake and Coconut in German Cheesecake

Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Soft and rich base for creamy texture, best at room temperature.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer and balances tangy cream cheese.
  • Egg: Provides structure and helps set the cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, deep flavor complexity.
Cake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cake Mix: Convenient base for quick and consistent cake layers.
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients and provide structure to the cake.
  • Vegetable Oil: Keeps cake moist and tender.
  • Water: Helps blend cake mix ingredients smoothly.
  • Shredded Coconut: Adds tropical texture and traditional German chocolate cake flavor.
  • Chopped Pecans: Provides nutty crunch and authentic German chocolate cake character.
Frosting and Garnish Ingredients:
  • Frosting: Creamy topping that completes the cake's rich profile.
  • Additional Coconut: Extra garnish for texture and visual appeal.
  • Additional Pecans: Final nutty decoration for enhanced presentation.

Bake German Chocolate Cheesecake Using These Simple Steps

Step 1: Whip Up The Creamy Cheesecake Base

Warm your oven to a cozy 325°F.

Grab your springform pan and give it a light grease and parchment paper lining.

In a large mixing bowl, blend your cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.

Crack in an egg and splash of vanilla, mixing until everything combines beautifully.

Pour this luxurious mixture into your prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes.

The cheesecake should look set but slightly jiggly in the center.

Let it cool completely, allowing the texture to firm up perfectly.

Step 2: Craft The Luscious Chocolate Cake Layers

Bump up the oven temperature to 350°F.

Prepare two 9-inch cake pans with a generous coating of grease and flour.

Grab your mixing bowl and combine:
  • Chocolate cake mix
  • Eggs
  • Vegetable oil
  • Water

Stir until the batter becomes smooth and glossy.

Gently fold in:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans

Divide the batter between your prepared pans.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.

The cake should spring back when touched and have a rich, deep color.

Allow the layers to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Assemble Your Showstopping Dessert

Place the first cake layer on your serving plate.

Spread a thin, even layer of frosting across the top.

Carefully position the cooled cheesecake layer right on top.

Crown it with the second cake layer.

Use the remaining frosting to cover the entire cake in a smooth, decadent coating.

Sprinkle additional coconut and chopped pecans around the top and sides for a stunning finish.

Chill for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together perfectly.

Cheesecake Tips With German Chocolate Finish

  • Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
  • Lightly toast pecans and coconut in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor and crunch, adding depth to the cake's texture.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and bake in a water bath to create a silky, crack-free surface.
  • Use a box cake mix for consistent texture, but add shredded coconut and pecans to elevate the flavor profile and create a more homemade feel.
  • Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and create a more stable, easier-to-slice dessert.

Chocolate Cheesecake Stores Rich and Ready

  • Store leftover German chocolate cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and preserve its delicate texture.
  • Carefully wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months without compromising flavor or quality.
  • Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight for gradual, even defrosting. Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore its creamy consistency.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on low power. Avoid overheating to prevent the cake from becoming dry or losing its rich, smooth texture.

Sips To Pair With German Cheesecake

  • Flavor Harmony Booster: Pair this decadent German chocolate cheesecake with a rich, full-bodied port wine that complements its sweet, nutty profile and balances the creamy texture.
  • Sweet Sip Companion: Serve a chilled espresso martini alongside the cake, which cuts through the richness with its bold coffee notes and provides a sophisticated adult beverage experience.
  • Refreshing Contrast Creator: Offer a bright, citrusy mandarin orange sorbet as a palate cleanser between bites, helping to refresh the taste buds and lighten the cake's intense flavors.
  • Textural Complement Selector: Include a small glass of cold milk or creamy vanilla bean milkshake to enhance the coconut and pecan elements while providing a smooth, cooling counterpoint to the cake's richness.

Decadent Cheesecake Presentation Ideas

  • Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cheesecake: Replace regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Use almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for the base.
  • Vegan Chocolate Coconut Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and swap dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Replace traditional frosting with coconut cream-based vegan frosting.
  • Low-Sugar German Chocolate Cheesecake: Use sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Choose a sugar-free cake mix and reduce the sugar content in the cheesecake layer. Select sugar-free chocolate and use unsweetened coconut flakes.
  • Nut-Free Version: Eliminate pecans completely or replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch. Use seed-based alternatives to maintain texture while accommodating nut allergies.

FAQs

  • What makes German Chocolate Cheesecake different from other cakes?

This unique dessert combines traditional German chocolate cake layers with a creamy cheesecake center, creating a rich and indulgent texture that blends two beloved desserts into one spectacular treat.

  • Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can use gluten-free cake mix, swap pecans for walnuts, or use low-fat cream cheese. Just ensure ingredient ratios remain consistent to maintain the cake’s structure and flavor.

  • Is this cake difficult to make for beginners?

While the recipe involves multiple steps, it’s manageable for intermediate bakers. Following the instructions carefully and preparing ingredients in advance will help ensure success.

  • How do I achieve the best texture for my cheesecake layer?

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature, mix ingredients thoroughly but gently, and avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles. Baking at the correct temperature and allowing proper cooling are key to a smooth, creamy texture.

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German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent German Chocolate Cheesecake marries rich chocolate layers with coconut-pecan frosting, creating a luxurious dessert experience. Creamy textures and intense flavors invite you to savor each delectable bite of this classic German-inspired sweet treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box white cake mix
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

Flavor Enhancers and Garnish:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Extra shredded coconut
  • Extra chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Meticulously prepare the cheesecake foundation by heating the oven to 325°F. Thoroughly grease a springform pan and line its base. Whip cream cheese and sugar into a silky, homogeneous texture, incorporating egg and vanilla until perfectly blended.
  2. Gently transfer the creamy mixture into the prepared pan, ensuring an even distribution. Bake until the center sets firmly, approximately 25 minutes. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.
  3. Elevate the oven temperature to 350°F. Carefully coat two cake pans with grease and a light dusting of flour to prevent sticking.
  4. Combine cake mix ingredients—eggs, oil, and water—whisking until achieving a smooth, lump-free consistency. Fold in shredded coconut and chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  5. Divide the batter between the prepared pans, creating uniform layers. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.
  6. Once baked, transfer cake layers to a cooling rack, allowing them to reach room temperature naturally.
  7. On a decorative serving plate, position the first cake layer. Spread a delicate, even layer of frosting across its surface.
  8. Carefully place the cooled cheesecake atop the first layer, followed by the second cake layer.
  9. Generously frost the entire cake, ensuring complete coverage. Embellish the exterior with additional coconut and pecan fragments for a luxurious finish.

Notes

  • Choose full-fat cream cheese for a richer, more decadent cheesecake texture that melts smoothly in every bite.
  • Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the cake layers.
  • Allow each layer to cool completely before assembling to prevent frosting from melting and maintain structural integrity.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and cream cheese to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing and even baking.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 38 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Daniel Bruns

Daniel Bruns

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Recipe development for home cooks, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and food writing

Education

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations
Focus: Classical and contemporary cooking techniques, Culinary entrepreneurship and kitchen management, Menu development and food cost analysis


Daniel’s story started with flour on his face and a pie in the oven at his grandma’s house. He later sharpened his skills at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.
His goal? Recipes so simple you’ll want to cook every night. When he’s not whipping up one-pan wonders, Daniel’s outside picking herbs, hosting neighborhood cook-offs, or baking chocolate cakes with his kids, messy, sweet, and unforgettable.

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