Welcome to our rich and indulgent desserts section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious recipe for German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake. This decadent cake features a moist and flavorful pound cake loaded with German chocolate and toasted pecans, topped with a luscious German chocolate pecan glaze. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a luxurious treat. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Pound Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups white sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup German chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
For the German Chocolate Pecan Glaze:
- 1 cup German chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pound Cake Batter
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and white sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Chocolate and Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped German chocolate and toasted pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 2: Bake the Pound Cake
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the German Chocolate Pecan Glaze
- Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Melt Chocolate: Place the chopped German chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Add Pecans: Stir in the chopped and toasted pecans until well combined.
Step 4: Glaze the Pound Cake
- Pour Glaze: Once the cake has cooled completely, place it on a serving plate. Pour the warm German chocolate pecan glaze over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Set: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake and serve. Enjoy this rich and indulgent dessert with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Butter and Eggs: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth batter.
- German Chocolate: Use high-quality German chocolate for the best flavor. You can find it in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
- Toasting Pecans: To toast pecans, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and golden brown.
Variations
Coconut-Pecan Pound Cake
Add 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the batter along with the pecans for a coconut-pecan twist.
Double Chocolate Pound Cake
Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate in place of German chocolate and add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate flavor.
Spiced Pecan Pound Cake
Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spiced flavor.
Orange-Pecan Pound Cake
Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the batter and 1 tablespoon of orange juice to the glaze for a bright citrusy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Glaze it just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unglazed cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
What can I serve with this cake?
This cake is delicious on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of German chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the flavor will be sweeter. Adjust the sugar in the recipe if needed.
German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion. With its moist, flavorful pound cake, luscious chocolate glaze, and toasted pecans, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat with your family and friends!