German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake

Indulge in the rich flavors of this German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake, a delightful treat that combines a moist and tender cake with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. This dessert is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy every slice of this delectable cake that pays homage to classic German chocolate flavors!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup German chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the chopped German chocolate and pecans.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. For the coconut-pecan frosting, in a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let cool slightly before spreading over the cooled pound cake.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 12 slices

Variations

• Chocolate Frosting: For a chocolate twist, consider adding cocoa powder to the frosting or using a chocolate ganache.
• Nut Variations: Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans if desired.
• Fruit Addition: Add chopped cherries or strawberries to the batter for a fruity surprise.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating

Store the pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If the frosting is already applied, it’s best to refrigerate the cake, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. To serve, allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
   Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.
3. Can I freeze this pound cake?
   Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
   You can substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
5. How do I know when the cake is done?
   The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
   Yes, you can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor.
7. How should I serve this cake?
   Serve it plain, or with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
8. Can I add a layer of frosting between the cake layers?
   Yes, you can slice the cake into layers and add frosting between them for a more decadent dessert.
9. What if my frosting is too runny?
   If the frosting is too runny, let it cool longer to thicken before spreading.
10. Is this cake suitable for birthdays?
    Absolutely! This cake makes a wonderful birthday treat, especially for chocolate lovers.

Conclusion

The German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the flavors of chocolate and nuts with a rich, creamy frosting. It’s perfect for special occasions or simply a sweet indulgence at home. Enjoy every slice of this moist and decadent cake that’s sure to impress!

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