Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: German chocolate cheesecake! Imagine a rich, creamy cheesecake swirled with luscious chocolate, topped with a decadent coconut and pecan frosting. It’s like a slice of heaven on a plate! I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering. As soon as I pulled it out of the oven, the whole house filled with this warm, inviting aroma that made everyone’s mouths water. I just knew it would be a hit! Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and the sweet crunch of coconut and pecans. Trust me, once you’ve had a slice, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite! It’s the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary day into a special occasion. So, let’s dive into making your own masterpiece!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup of shredded coconut
- 1 cup of chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of milk
How to Prepare *German Chocolate Cheesecake*
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get this deliciousness going! First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While that’s heating up, grab your springform pan and mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter in a bowl. You want it to be nice and crumbly, so make sure it’s well combined. Then, press that mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create a sturdy crust.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until it’s smooth and creamy—oh, the smell is already divine! Add in the eggs, one at a time, really mixing well after each addition. This is key for a fluffy texture. Stir in your vanilla extract and the melted chocolate until everything is beautifully blended.
Pour that heavenly cream cheese mixture over your crust, and then it’s time to bake! Pop it in the oven for about 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. After baking, let it cool completely at room temperature before you even think about adding the topping.
Tips for Success
Trust me on this one: using high-quality chocolate makes a world of difference in flavor! It’s worth it. And don’t skip the chilling step! For the best flavor and texture, chill your cheesecake in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you can wait. This not only enhances the flavors but ensures it cuts perfectly into those dreamy slices. You’ll be the star of the dessert table, I promise!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake with the rich flavors of German chocolate.
- Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet craving—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
- It’s surprisingly simple to make, with straightforward steps that deliver impressive results.
- The combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy coconut and pecans creates an irresistible texture.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, bringing smiles to the faces of family and friends alike.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day after chilling in the fridge.
- This cheesecake pairs beautifully with coffee or a glass of dessert wine—perfect for a cozy evening!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per slice of this delicious German chocolate cheesecake:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, when you’re indulging in a slice of this creamy goodness, it’s totally worth it! Enjoy every bite, and remember, balance is key!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can switch things up with a different crust. A chocolate cookie crust made from crushed Oreos adds a delightful twist! You could also use a nut-based crust, like crushed pecans or almonds mixed with butter, for a gluten-free option. Just make sure whatever crust you choose is pressed firmly into the pan, so it holds up beautifully against that creamy filling!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your cheesecake fresh and tasty, simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious for about 5 days. If you find yourself with a lot of leftovers (lucky you!), you can also slice it up and freeze individual pieces. Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then pop them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, let them thaw in the fridge overnight—easy peasy!
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
You bet! This cheesecake is perfect for making in advance. I usually recommend making it a day or two before you need it. Just let it cool completely, then refrigerate it. The flavors have a chance to meld and deepen, making every bite even more delicious. Just remember to add the coconut and pecan topping right before serving for that fresh, crunchy kick!
Variations
Oh, the fun doesn’t stop at just one version of this amazing German chocolate cheesecake! There are so many delicious ways to customize it to keep things exciting. Here are a few of my favorite ideas:
- Mint Chocolate Delight: Add a touch of peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing minty flavor. Top with crushed mint chocolate candies for that extra flair!
- Nutty Chocolate: Mix in some finely chopped hazelnuts or walnuts into the cream cheese filling for a delightful crunch. You could even sprinkle some on top for a beautiful finish.
- Raspberry Swirl: Before baking, dollop some raspberry puree onto the cream cheese layer and use a knife to swirl it gently. The tartness of raspberries pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate!
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top of the coconut and pecan topping for an added layer of sweetness that’ll have everyone swooning!
- Chocolate Ganache: For a truly indulgent twist, pour a silky chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake before adding the coconut topping. It’s rich, decadent, and oh-so-delicious!
Feel free to get creative and mix things up! Each variation brings a new experience to the table, and I promise, your friends and family will love you for it. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your German chocolate cheesecake, the right pairings can take the experience to a whole new level! Here are my favorite suggestions that beautifully complement the rich flavors of this decadent dessert:
- Coffee: A hot cup of freshly brewed coffee is a classic companion. The slight bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cheesecake perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side is a delightful treat! The coolness of the ice cream melts into the warm cheesecake, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
- Espresso: For a bold pairing, serve your cheesecake with a shot of rich espresso. The intense coffee flavor elevates each bite, making it a sophisticated choice for coffee lovers!
- Sweet Dessert Wine: If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of dessert wine, like a late harvest Riesling or a sweet Moscato, pairs beautifully. The fruity notes enhance the chocolate and nut flavors in the cheesecake.
- Fresh Berries: A side of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, adds a pop of color and a tart contrast to the sweet cheesecake. They also make for a lovely presentation!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or occasion. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these pairings will elevate your German chocolate cheesecake experience to something truly special. Enjoy every moment!
Print
German chocolate cheesecake: 5 steps to sweet bliss!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy German chocolate cheesecake topped with coconut and pecan frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla and melted chocolate.
- Pour cream cheese mixture over crust.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes until set.
- Let cool completely.
- In a saucepan, combine coconut, pecans, brown sugar, and milk. Cook until thickened.
- Spread coconut mixture over cooled cheesecake.
Notes
- Chill cheesecake before serving for best flavor.
- Use high-quality chocolate for better taste.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: german chocolate cheesecake, cheesecake, dessert
