German Chocolate Suprise Cake

German Chocolate Suprise Cake Recipe - Authentic German Dessert

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

German Chocolate Surprise Cake is a delicious and decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans with a creamy cream cheese filling. This cake is perfect for special occasions or just as a sweet treat for any day of the week.

History

German Chocolate Surprise Cake is a variation of the classic German Chocolate Cake, which was actually not created in Germany but named after an American chocolate maker named Samuel German. The addition of the cream cheese filling adds a unique twist to the traditional recipe, making it even more indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

1 box of German chocolate cake mix
1 cup of chopped pecans (optional)
1 8 oz (227 g) package of cream cheese, softened
1 stick of butter, softened
1 box of powdered sugar
1 cup of shredded coconut

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9 x 13 inch cake pan.
Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions and add nuts if desired.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add the powdered sugar and coconut to the cream cheese mixture. Note that this mixture will be very thick.
Drop teaspoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the unbaked cake batter until all of the mixture is used.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.

Variations

Add chocolate chips to the cake batter for an extra chocolatey twist.
Use different nuts such as walnuts or almonds in place of pecans.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake for added sweetness.

Notes

The cake batter rises and the cream cheese mixture settles on the
bottom.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly grease the cake pan to prevent sticking.

- Be sure to blend the cream cheese and butter until smooth to ensure a creamy filling.

- Drop teaspoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake batter for a surprise filling in every bite.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

German Chocolate Surprise Cake is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly blend the cream cheese and butter until smooth for a creamy filling.

- Drop teaspoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake batter for a surprise filling in every bite.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use a different flavor of cake mix such as devil's food or red velvet for a different twist.

- Substitute almond extract for the vanilla extract for a nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

German Chocolate Surprise Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve German Chocolate Surprise Cake on a decorative cake stand or plate for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with extra shredded coconut and chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

German Chocolate Surprise Cake pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delicious dessert combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover German Chocolate Surprise Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of German Chocolate Surprise Cake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of German Chocolate Surprise Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of German Chocolate Surprise Cake contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of German Chocolate Surprise Cake contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

German Chocolate Surprise Cake is a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

German Chocolate Surprise Cake contains nuts (pecans) and dairy (cream cheese, butter).

Summary

German Chocolate Surprise Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides some protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

German Chocolate Surprise Cake is a decadent and delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans with a creamy cream cheese filling. Perfect for special occasions or just as a sweet treat any day of the week.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for German Chocolate Surprise Cake. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Gertrude's house for a family gathering. Aunt Gertrude was known for her delicious baking, and that day was no exception. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the intoxicating aroma of chocolate and coconut.

Curious, I asked Aunt Gertrude what she was making, and she smiled and told me it was her famous German Chocolate Surprise Cake. She explained that the "surprise" in the name came from the rich, creamy coconut pecan frosting that was hidden between the layers of chocolate cake. I was intrigued and begged her to teach me how to make it.

Aunt Gertrude was more than happy to share her recipe with me. She pulled out a well-worn notebook filled with handwritten recipes and flipped to the page for the German Chocolate Surprise Cake. As she read off the ingredients and instructions, I could tell that this cake was going to be a labor of love.

The first step was to make the chocolate cake batter. Aunt Gertrude showed me how to sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda together before creaming the butter and sugar. As she added the eggs and vanilla extract, the batter began to come together, thick and glossy.

While the cake baked in the oven, Aunt Gertrude started on the coconut pecan frosting. She toasted the coconut and pecans in a skillet until they were golden and fragrant, then mixed them into a pot of butter, sugar, and evaporated milk. The mixture bubbled and thickened on the stove, filling the kitchen with a sweet, nutty scent.

Once the cake was cooled, Aunt Gertrude sliced it in half horizontally and spread a generous layer of the coconut pecan frosting between the layers. She then frosted the top and sides of the cake with a rich, chocolate ganache, creating a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures.

When the cake was finally assembled, Aunt Gertrude cut me a slice and handed me a fork. As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the decadent combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans. The cake was moist and tender, the frosting creamy and sweet. It was a true masterpiece of baking, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the years, I have made Aunt Gertrude's German Chocolate Surprise Cake countless times. It has become a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, always a hit with everyone who tries it. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own touches and variations, but the core of the cake remains the same - a tribute to Aunt Gertrude and her love of baking.

I often think back to that hot summer day in Aunt Gertrude's kitchen, the smell of chocolate and coconut lingering in the air. It was a moment that sparked my passion for baking and taught me the joy of sharing homemade treats with loved ones. And every time I make this cake, I am reminded of the bond between family and food, and how a simple recipe can bring people together in the sweetest way possible.