There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a rich, chocolatey cake baking in the oven—a scent that fills the home with warmth and nostalgia. This German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy weekend afternoons, festive holiday gatherings, or as a sweet centerpiece for a casual coffee date with friends. Inspired by the classic German chocolate cake, this pound cake combines tender, buttery cake layers with the crunch of pecans, the tropical hint of coconut, and the indulgent drizzle of chocolate ganache. Every bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey goodness, making it a treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at a more advanced dessert, this recipe is approachable, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 10
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
The foundation of any great pound cake is a properly prepared baking environment. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the moment your cake goes in. Grease a loaf pan generously with butter, then dust it lightly with flour, tapping out the excess. This simple step will help your cake release cleanly from the pan and maintain its perfect shape.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is crucial for a tender, soft crumb.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure an even texture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture to create a smooth, velvety batter.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
- Finally, fold in shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and half of the chocolate chips. Folding, rather than mixing vigorously, helps maintain the lightness of the batter while distributing the mix-ins evenly.
This batter is rich, aromatic, and full of texture, promising a moist and flavorful pound cake once baked.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so begin checking at the 50-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Proper cooling ensures the ganache won’t melt immediately upon contact and helps maintain the cake’s structure.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
The ganache is what takes this pound cake from delightful to decadent:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the remaining chocolate chips until smooth and fully melted.
- Allow the ganache to cool slightly before drizzling over the completely cooled cake. This ensures a glossy, luscious finish that sets beautifully without sliding off.
For added elegance, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans and shredded coconut over the ganache while it’s still slightly soft. The combination of textures—crunchy nuts, chewy coconut, and silky chocolate—creates a sensory delight in every bite.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once decorated, slice your German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake and serve it on a beautiful platter. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Its moist, dense crumb and rich flavor profile make it ideal for special occasions or as a decadent everyday treat.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the batter emulsify better and ensures a smooth, tender cake.
- Measuring Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cake.
- Toasting Pecans: For an extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the pecans before folding them into the batter.
- Chocolate Variation: Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips to adjust sweetness to your liking.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Why This Cake Is a Must-Try
What sets this German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake apart is the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The buttery pound cake base is rich yet not overwhelming, the coconut adds a subtle tropical sweetness, and the pecans bring a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. The chocolate ganache ties everything together with a silky, luxurious finish.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just to treat yourself, this cake is a versatile recipe that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s approachable enough that even beginner bakers can achieve a bakery-worthy result.
Fun Variations to Try
- Mini Bundt Cakes: Use a mini bundt pan for individual servings perfect for gifting or parties.
- Fruit Twist: Add chopped dried cherries or raspberries for a fruity contrast to the chocolate and pecans.
- Layered Cake: Slice the pound cake horizontally and add a layer of whipped cream or chocolate frosting in the middle for a special occasion dessert.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or skip nuts entirely to accommodate allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 6g
- Fats: 25g
While indulgent, this cake can be enjoyed in moderation as a decadent treat or shared among friends and family for a sweet, memorable moment.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
- Beverage Pairings: Coffee, hot chocolate, sweet dessert wine, or milk
- Toppings: Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of powdered sugar
- Occasion Ideas: Afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, birthdays, or casual weekend baking
Final Thoughts
Baking this German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake is more than just creating a dessert—it’s an experience. From the first whiff of chocolate and coconut wafting through your kitchen to the final drizzle of ganache, it’s a recipe that delights the senses. Share it with loved ones, savor it with your favorite beverage, and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a cake that’s both impressive and heartwarming.
This cake is a perfect example of how traditional flavors can be elevated in a simple yet elegant pound cake format. Its versatility, flavor depth, and comforting nature make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.