Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: the rich and moist German chocolate pecan pound cake. It’s like a hug in cake form! The moment you take a bite, you’re greeted with a delightful chocolate flavor that just melts in your mouth, and those crunchy pecans? They add the perfect satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. I remember the first time I made this cake for my family; the kitchen was filled with the most incredible aroma. My kids couldn’t wait for it to cool down, and honestly, neither could I! It’s a recipe that brings everyone together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in my home. It’s the kind of dessert that makes life just a little sweeter!
Ingredients for German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious cake, and trust me, you’ll want everything prepped and ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk, packed for proper measurement
- 1 cup German chocolate, melted (the real deal for that rich flavor)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, roughly chopped for the best texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Make sure to have everything on hand before you start, so you can dive right into mixing and baking. It’s all about that smooth workflow in the kitchen, right?
How to Prepare German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake
Now, let’s get down to the good stuff—preparing this heavenly cake! I promise, it’s easier than you think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to cake bliss in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and perfectly.
- Next, grab your bundt pan and grease it well, then dust it with flour. This will help your cake pop out effortlessly once it’s baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together that softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for getting the right texture, so don’t rush it—about 4-5 minutes should do the trick.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. You want to ensure they’re fully incorporated before adding the next one.
- Now, stir in the vanilla extract and that luscious melted German chocolate. It’s going to smell amazing!
- In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a little whisk to make sure everything’s mixed evenly.
- Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. This helps keep the batter smooth and prevents overmixing.
- Once everything is combined, gently fold in the chopped pecans. You want them evenly distributed without overworking the batter.
- Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure it’s evenly spread out.
- Now, it’s time to bake! Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to remove without falling apart. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
And there you have it! Your gorgeous German chocolate pecan pound cake is almost ready to impress. Just a little patience while it cools, and you’ll be rewarded with a slice of heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor: The melted German chocolate delivers an indulgent taste that chocolate lovers crave.
- Crunchy pecans: Each bite is perfectly balanced with the satisfying crunch of pecans, adding texture and flavor.
- Perfect for gatherings: This cake is a showstopper at any party or family get-together; you’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!
- Moist and tender: Thanks to the buttermilk and careful mixing, this cake stays moist for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
- Versatile serving options: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with a chocolate glaze or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
- Simple to make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve delicious results with this recipe!
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow bakers, here are some of my tried-and-true tips to help you nail this German chocolate pecan pound cake. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend together more smoothly, giving your cake that perfect texture.
- Don’t rush the creaming: When you cream the butter and sugar, take your time! Aim for that light and fluffy texture—about 4-5 minutes. It’s a key step for a tender cake.
- Measure your flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour. If you scoop straight from the bag, you could end up with more flour than needed, which can make your cake dense.
- Check for doneness: Start checking your cake around the 60-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want to pull it out as soon as a toothpick comes out clean to keep it moist.
- Cool it right: Let the cake cool in the pan for the suggested time. This helps it set up and makes transferring to the wire rack much easier (no crumbling here!).
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of coffee to the batter for an extra flavor boost. It pairs beautifully with chocolate!
- Enjoy it at room temperature: This cake tastes best when served at room temperature, allowing all those rich flavors to shine through. Patience, my friend!
With these tips, you’re all set to create a stunning cake that’ll have everyone raving! Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve baked this delightful German chocolate pecan pound cake, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers! If you happen to have any cake left (which is a big if, trust me!), you’ll want to keep it fresh for as long as possible.
First off, let your cake cool completely before storing. This prevents any condensation from forming and making it soggy. Once it’s cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This way, it stays moist and flavorful for up to 5 days at room temperature. Just remember, it’s best enjoyed at room temp, so don’t put it in the fridge unless absolutely necessary. The cold can dull those rich flavors!
If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze slices of the cake. Just make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for about 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw the cake overnight in the fridge, and then bring it to room temperature before serving. No need to reheat—just slice and enjoy!
So, whether you’re savoring a slice now or saving some for later, this cake is sure to bring a smile to your face every time. Happy storing!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s take a peek at the numbers behind this scrumptious German chocolate pecan pound cake. Now, keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Here’s what you can expect per serving (that’s one delicious slice):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 5g
So there you have it! A little bit of indulgence can bring a lot of happiness, and this cake is worth every single calorie. Enjoy each slice knowing you’re treating yourself to something truly delightful!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! While German chocolate adds a unique flavor, you can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that it may change the sweetness and texture slightly.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Great question! Start checking around the 60-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re good to go! If it has wet batter on it, give it a little more time.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store it properly as mentioned in the storage section.
What can I serve with the German chocolate pecan pound cake?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can serve it plain, or dress it up with a chocolate glaze, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries also make a lovely accompaniment!
Is this cake suitable for special diets?
This cake is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you might want to experiment with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture might vary a bit, but it can be a fun challenge!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, let’s talk about how to elevate your already amazing German chocolate pecan pound cake to a whole new level! There are so many delightful ways to serve it that’ll make your dessert table the talk of the town. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Chocolate Glaze: Drizzle a rich chocolate glaze over the top for an extra layer of indulgence. It adds a beautiful shine and an even deeper chocolate flavor!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can lighten up the cake’s richness. You could even whip in a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a fun twist.
- Ice Cream: Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the chocolate and pecans—talk about a heavenly combination!
- Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side. Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds a pop of color to your dessert plate.
- Coffee or Tea: Don’t forget about your beverage pairings! A nice cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea complements the flavors beautifully and makes for a cozy dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the cake for a sweet finish that’s simply irresistible. The saltiness of caramel can really enhance the flavors of the chocolate!
These serving suggestions are all about bringing out the best in your cake while adding a little flair. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy this dessert in style! Your guests will be raving about it for days!
Print
German chocolate pecan pound cake: 7 reasons to adore it
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and moist German chocolate pecan pound cake with a delightful chocolate flavor and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup German chocolate, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and melted German chocolate.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Can be served with chocolate glaze or whipped cream.
- Best enjoyed at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: German chocolate pecan pound cake, pound cake, chocolate cake, pecan cake