German Chocolate Pound Cake – 1 Rich Recipe You’ll Bake Again and Again

Table of Contents

Introduction

The German Chocolate Pound Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that captures the heart of Southern hospitality in every slice. Imagine biting into a dense, buttery chocolate cake, only to find it drenched in a gooey coconut-pecan frosting that sticks to your fork in the most satisfying way. That’s the magic of this recipe.

Many home bakers are familiar with traditional layer cakes, but the pound cake version of German chocolate offers a sturdier, richer take that’s equally indulgent. If you’re craving a bold dessert that delivers deep chocolate flavor and a nutty caramel finish, this one checks all the boxes.

Want more crowd-pleasing cake ideas? Don’t miss our Pineapple Layer Cake with Glaze — it’s another showstopper with old-fashioned charm.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Pound Cake:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
4 oz Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, melted and cooled
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter
4 egg yolks, lightly beaten
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 ½ cups chopped pecans

How to Make German Chocolate Pound Cake

Step 1: Mix the Batter

Start by creaming the butter and sugar until it turns pale and fluffy—this step is key to the cake’s signature texture. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the cooled chocolate and vanilla.

Step 2: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

In a separate bowl, combine your dry ingredients. Alternate between adding the dry mix and the buttermilk to your chocolate base, ensuring a smooth batter.

Step 3: Bake It Right

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 60–70 minutes at 325°F. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with moist crumbs.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

In a saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, butter, sugar, and yolks. Stir constantly over medium heat until thickened. Add vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let cool before spreading over the cake.

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

If you’re using layers, spread frosting between each one. For a Bundt cake, simply pour the warm frosting over the top and let it drizzle beautifully down the sides.

Want a savory balance to your dessert? Try this Creamy Mushroom Soup—it’s rich, earthy, and makes a great contrast.

Why This German Chocolate Pound Cake Works

Unlike traditional German chocolate layer cakes, this pound cake offers structural integrity with maximum flavor. It doesn’t rely on delicate sponginess—instead, it embraces the denseness of pound cake with chocolate intensity.

The frosting alone deserves its own spotlight. It’s thick, sticky, and filled with sweetened coconut and crunchy pecans. It’s no surprise that AllRecipes describes it as “liquid gold on cake.”

Tips & Variations

Deeper chocolate flavor? Add a tablespoon of Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
No buttermilk? Substitute with 1 cup of milk + 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
Make it boozy: Add a splash of dark rum to the frosting for an adult twist.
Want a mini version? Use loaf pans or cupcake tins for personal servings.
Layering? Chill the frosting first—it spreads more evenly and won’t drip.

Also try this refreshing Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad — it balances out the sweetness beautifully in a full meal setting.

Storage

Room Temperature: Best within 2 days if covered with foil.
Refrigerator: Up to 5 days; let it warm to room temp before serving.
Freezer: Unfrosted cakes can be wrapped and frozen up to 2 months.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Frosting & Assembly: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours
Yield: 12 large slices

Tools Used

Electric mixer
Mixing bowls (2 large, 1 medium)
Whisk & rubber spatula
10-inch Bundt pan or 2 round pans
Cooling rack
Saucepan for frosting

Final Thoughts

There’s no better way to satisfy a Southern dessert craving than with this German Chocolate Pound Cake. It’s got that classic chocolate depth, velvety texture, and a topping that could easily be enjoyed by the spoonful. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying it for the first time, this cake is approachable, deeply satisfying, and always leaves a lasting impression.

Serve it with coffee, share it at family gatherings, or indulge in a late-night slice—this cake is always the answer.

Still hungry? You might enjoy this Homemade Tomato Sauce for savory cooking, or browse the chocolate section of Delish’s Cake Recipes for more rich ideas.