Easy German Chocolate Bundt Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Easy German Chocolate Bundt Cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with the classic coconut-pecan topping, offering a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and chocolaty flavors. This cake is incredibly simple to make, with the convenience of a Bundt pan, yet delivers an impressive, moist, and indulgent result. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, holiday, or simply to satisfy your chocolate cravings, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup water

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup sour cream (for added moisture)

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra chocolate flavor)

For the coconut-pecan topping:

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup chopped pecans

• 1/2 cup evaporated milk

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan, ensuring that it’s well-prepared to prevent sticking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, water, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them into the batter.

3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan and spread it evenly.

4. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. While the cake is cooling, make the coconut-pecan topping. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to boil.

6. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and continue to cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and fold in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Allow the topping to cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled Bundt cake.

7. Once the cake has cooled completely, generously spoon the coconut-pecan topping over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

8. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 slices

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Baking time: 35-40 minutes

• Cooling time: 15-20 minutes for the cake, 10-15 minutes for the topping to cool slightly

• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra layer of decadence, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the coconut-pecan topping.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free German chocolate cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.

• Nuts Substitute: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts or even almonds for a different nutty flavor.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy butter for the topping to make this recipe dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

• Freezing: You can freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.

• Reheating: If you prefer the cake warm, you can microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a homemade cake batter instead of a cake mix?

Yes, you can make the cake batter from scratch if you prefer. Use a homemade German chocolate cake recipe or substitute with a chocolate cake recipe and add 1 ounce of melted German chocolate for that authentic flavor.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. The cake itself can be baked a day or two before serving and stored at room temperature. Add the coconut-pecan topping right before serving.

3. Can I make this cake without the coconut-pecan topping?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of coconut or pecans, you can skip the topping or use a different frosting such as chocolate ganache or a simple glaze.

4. Can I use a Bundt pan of a different size?

Yes, you can use a different size Bundt pan, but you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake, while a smaller pan will require a longer baking time.

5. Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is much thicker and sweeter than evaporated milk, so it’s not an ideal substitute for this recipe. Stick with evaporated milk for the topping for the right consistency and balance of sweetness.

6. Can I add chocolate chips to the topping?

Yes, you can fold in chocolate chips or even mini chocolate chips into the coconut-pecan topping for extra chocolate flavor.

7. Can I make the coconut-pecan topping in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the topping a day ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and gently reheat before spreading it on the cake.

8. How can I make this cake more moist?

Adding sour cream to the cake batter helps keep the cake moist. Be sure to not overbake it, as this can dry it out.

9. How can I make the topping thicker?

If you’d like a thicker topping, simply cook the mixture a little longer so it thickens up more before adding the coconut and pecans.

10. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake can be frozen. Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and add the topping.

Conclusion

Easy German Chocolate Bundt Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the classic flavors of German chocolate cake but wants a simple and hassle-free recipe. With its moist chocolate cake and irresistible coconut-pecan topping, it’s a treat that is sure to impress guests or satisfy your own sweet cravings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want something delicious, this cake is an easy and satisfying option that brings the flavors of a traditional favorite into a convenient Bundt pan!

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