Dessert doesn't get any easier than this recipe for German Chocolate Cake with a decadent homemade coconut pecan icing.
Let me show you how to use another cake mix hack and turn a boxed cake mix into something amazing!
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By adding a few extra ingredients to this box of chocolate cake mix, you get a semi-homemade German chocolate cake recipe that's delicious. But the real secret is in the homemade coconut pecan icing!
Looking for more easy dessert recipes? Try my Red Velvet 4th of July Cake, Cheesecake Pudding Cake or this homemade recipe for Chocolate Chiffon Cake.
Table of Contents
- What is German Chocolate Cake?
- What Type and Size Cake Pan to Use?
- How to Remove a Cake from a Bundt Cake Pan
- Helpful Kitchen Tools
- Main Ingredients Needed:
- Step-by-Step Directions
- How Do you Know when a Cake is Done?
- Homemade Coconut Pecan Icing
- LOVE this recipe? SAVE it for Later!
- Storage Tips
- Top Tip
- More Recipes to Love
- 📖 Recipe Card
- 💬 Comments
What is German Chocolate Cake?
Before we get to the recipe, where exactly did German Chocolate Cake originate from? As a child I always thought Germany because, well, my dad was from Germany and he liked this cake. However, German Chocolate Cake was created in 1957 by a homemaker in Texas.
Yes, Texas! Apparently the chocolate she used was developed by Samuel German for the American Baker's Chocolate Company and they named the chocolate after him, Baker's German's Sweet Chocolate.
Did you know that June 11th is National German Chocolate Cake Day? Now we all have something yummy to bake to celebrate!
What Type and Size Cake Pan to Use?
You can use any type of cake pan, but I love a bundt cake pan. There are many different designs you can purchase too with a bundt cake pan these days. Some are very elaborate and other's are more traditional.
As with any cake pan, you're going to want to make sure you coat it very well with non-stick cooking spray.
Check out my other Cake Mix Baking Secrets that includes a fun free printable with helpful tips for making more Easy Dessert Recipes.
How to Remove a Cake from a Bundt Cake Pan
If you've ever had a cake get stuck in the pan it's because it cooled too long in the pan. Which causes the cake to become damp and stick. Here are a few tips to getting the cake out of the pan perfectly.
- Tap the pan a few times.
- Shake the pan gently to help loosen the cake.
- You can also run a small knife around the edges of the pan to help release the cake from the pan.
- Invert the pan onto the cooling rack, gently lift the cake pan up and off the cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the icing.
Helpful Kitchen Tools
More InformationMore InformationMore InformationMore InformationMore InformationMore Information
Main Ingredients Needed:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix; 15.25 ounce size prepared according to directions
- Chopped pecans
- Shredded coconut
- Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
- Container of prepared chocolate frosting; you will not use the whole container.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Follow the package directions to prepare the cake mix, then stir in the coconut and chopped pecans. Pour the batter into a bundt pan generously greased with non-stick cooking spray.pen_spark
Step 2: Bake the cake according to the package directions (mine took 30 minutes). Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes.
How Do you Know when a Cake is Done?
Follow these simple tips for helping you know when any cake recipe is done:
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If the toothpick comes out clean or with only a few crumbs clinging to it, it’s safe to remove the cake from the oven to a cooling rack.
Another way that I like to use is to lightly touch the center of the cake. If it feels springy, it’s done. If you notice that your finger made an indentation in the center of the cake that is remaining, let the cake bake for a few more minutes.
The final way is by looking at the edges of the cake pan. If you notice the edges are pulling away from the sides of the pan, the cake is done.
I always set a timer when I’m baking anything. However, I always set my timer for 3 to 5 minutes under the recommended baking time. Why? Because all ovens are different.
Homemade Coconut Pecan Icing
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Stir in additional pecans and coconut.
Step 4: Place the cooled cake on a baker's rack set over a baking tray. Slowly pour the frosting over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.
Step 5: Microwave ½ cup of prepared chocolate frosting for about 10 seconds until it becomes pourable. Pour the melted frosting over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Then top with extra chopped pecans.
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Storage Tips
Since this cake has a homemade coconut pecan frosting, store it in a cake carrier. This will protect the frosting and embellishments while keeping the cake moist and fresh. It's best to store the leftovers in the refrigerator.
Top Tip
Allow the chocolate frosting to cool and a little before pouring the pecan coconut icing on top.
More Recipes to Love
Treat yourself to a delightful array of baked goods! Indulge in the cinnamon-spiced warmth of Snickerdoodle Cupcakes, or opt for the bright, citrusy zing of Lemon Poke Cupcakes.
For a showstopper, try a beautifully swirled Marble Bundt Cake, or celebrate the season with a festive Easter Bundt Cake adorned with cheerful decorations.
📖 Recipe Card
Easy German Chocolate Cake from a Cake Mix
Ingredients
- 1 chocolate cake mix 15.25 ounce size prepared according to directions
- ½ cup pecans chopped
- ½ cup coconut shredded
- 14 ounces Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- ½ cup pecans chopped
- ½ cup coconut shredded
- 16 ounce prepared chocolate frosting see note below
Method
- Once the cake has been prepared according to the directions on the box, add the ½ cup chopped pecans and ½ cup shredded coconut into the batter. Stir until combined.
- Pour the batter into a bundt pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
- After the cake has cooled for a few minutes, remove from the pan to continue cooling on a baking rack that is on top of a baking sheet. Meanwhile, prepare the icing.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter and vanilla over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes or until it has thickened.
- Stir in the additional ½ cup of chopped pecans and ½ cup of shredded coconut.
- Melt ½ cup of the prepared chocolate frosting in the microwave for 10 seconds or so. You want to be able to pour the frosting, but you don't want it completely melted, so be careful.
- Pour the melted chocolate frosting on top of the cake allowing the frosting to drip down the sides.
- Allow the frosting to cool and a little before pouring the pecan coconut icing on top. Allowing the pecan coconut icing to drizzle down the sides of the cake as well.
- Then drizzle more of the melted chocolate frosting on top.
- Allow the frosted cake to cool before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!This recipe has been updated since it first appeared in 2017 with new photos and a new printable recipe card that includes nutritional information. I hope you enjoy the updates as much as I enjoyed working on them!
Joanne says
This looks delicious! Am wondering if it would affect the cake if I leave out the nuts and coconut. My hubby has issues with both. I would also have to change the icing to avoid those items as well. Maybe just do a chocolate glaze instead.
Lois says
I have TWO other cakes that you and your husband mght enjoy: https://walkingonsunshinerecipes.com/ultimate-chocolate-cake-from-cake-mix/ and my Chocolate Brownie Cake: https://walkingonsunshinerecipes.com/chocolate-brownie-cake-homemade-ganache/
Let me know if this helps. Thank you!
Jo(a Rose Tinted world) says
This looks amazing. I don't think that using a cake mix is a cheat, you've still had to bake it! And loving the bundt tin.
Lois says
Thanks Jo!!!