german chocolate pecan pound cake

Name: German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light brown sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted; 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk

Published: August 21, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

You will love how easy it is to whip up this decadent treat with simple ingredients.
The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the crunch of pecans.
Its visually appealing layers make it a showstopper on any dessert table.
This versatile recipe allows you to add personal touches or variations based on what you have at home.

I distinctly recall my cousin’s eyes lighting up when she took her first bite of this delicious creation. It was pure happiness in dessert form.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for an easy blend that ensures your batter is creamy and smooth.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely fluffy texture we all crave in a good pound cake.
Brown Sugar: Opt for light brown sugar to deliver a subtle caramel flavor that complements the richness of the chocolate.
All-Purpose Flour: Use standard flour for structure; sifting before measuring can help avoid lumps!
Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder deepens the color and enhances the chocolatey goodness of your cake.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps give the pound cake its lovely rise without making it too airy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors; don’t skip it unless you want to taste blandness!
Eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter, ensuring even mixing and moisture throughout.
Vanilla Extract: Always choose pure vanilla extract for an authentic flavor boost that elevates your baking game.
Pecans: Toss in some chopped pecans for delightful crunch; toast them lightly for an extra nutty aroma.
Heavy Cream or Milk: Adds moisture to keep your pound cake rich and satisfying without being overly dense.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan : Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly so nothing gets stuck later on.

Cream Butter and Sugars : In a large mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy—this will take about 4-5 minutes.

Add Eggs One at a Time : Crack your eggs into the bowl one by one, mixing well after each addition. Your batter should be smooth as silk once all are incorporated!

Sift Dry Ingredients Together : In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting aerates these dry ingredients so they mix evenly into your batter.

Combine Everything : Gradually add dry ingredients into your wet mixture while alternating with heavy cream or milk. Mix gently until just combined; over-mixing can lead to toughened cake.

Add Pecans : Fold in those toasted pecans gently into the batter using a spatula—this step ensures they’re evenly distributed throughout the cake.

Bake Until Perfect : Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Cool Before Serving : Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here; you don’t want molten lava filling up your plate!

Now you know how to create this decadent german chocolate pecan pound cake that’ll have everyone begging for more! Enjoy every bite as you share it with friends and family—or keep it all to yourself (no judgment here).

You Must Know

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Toast your pecans before adding them, This enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch.
Don’t skip the cooling time!
It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each slice is pure bliss.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time. Mix in dry ingredients gradually for a smooth batter without lumps.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or add chocolate chips for an extra treat. A dash of vanilla or coffee can elevate the flavor even more!

Storing & Reheating

Wrap your German chocolate pecan pound cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container.

Chef's Helpful Tips

This delicious German chocolate pecan pound cake is all about balance; don’t overmix!
Ensure even distribution of nuts and chocolate.
An electric mixer works wonders but don’t forget to scrape down the sides frequently for perfection!

Baking this cake has become a family tradition for birthdays. Each time, we reminisce about Grandma’s secret recipe and how we often “misunderstood” her instructions, resulting in some unforgettable kitchen mishaps.

FAQ

Can I use other nuts in German chocolate pecan pound cake?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes if you prefer something different.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for delicious results.

0 Shares