German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake

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German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake

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Introduction

The German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that marries the dense, buttery texture of a pound cake with the indulgence of chocolate and the crunch of pecans. Inspired by the traditional German Chocolate Cake but with a Southern twist, this bundt cake is a showstopper for any gathering. Imagine moist cake laced with pecans and chocolate, drenched in a silky ganache – pure bliss in every bite!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup German chocolate (finely chopped)

For the Ganache Glaze:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or high-quality chocolate chips)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Optional: extra pecans for garnish

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Instructions

For the Cake:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan generously.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Cream butter & sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).
  4. Add eggs one at a time: Incorporate each egg fully before adding the next.
  5. Add vanilla & almond extracts: Stir to combine.
  6. Alternate adding buttermilk and dry ingredients: Start and end with the dry mix. Stir in pecans and chopped German chocolate.
  7. Pour into bundt pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 70–80 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.

For the Ganache Glaze:

  1. Heat cream until just simmering.
  2. Pour over chocolate: Add butter and salt. Let sit 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  3. Drizzle over cooled cake generously.
  4. Garnish with pecans for a stunning finish.

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Methods & Techniques

  • Creaming butter and sugar ensures a light, airy texture despite the cake’s density.
  • Chopped German chocolate melts into pockets within the cake, delivering bursts of flavor.
  • The ganache, made by emulsifying cream and chocolate, adds a luxurious sheen and extra chocolate punch.
  • Toasted pecans enhance the nutty flavor and provide textural contrast.

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History

Despite its name, “German Chocolate Cake” is not from Germany. It originated in the United States in the 1950s, named after Sam German, who created a type of dark baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company. The addition of pecans and coconut became a signature, evolving into variations like this pound cake, which blends Southern baking traditions with classic flavors.

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Benefits

  • Pecans: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Chocolate: Contains flavonoids, which may promote heart health.
  • Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang while aiding digestion.
  • Homemade ganache: Less processed sugar than commercial frostings.

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Formation

This cake forms through a chemical leavening reaction (baking powder + baking soda) combined with steam from the buttermilk and melted chocolate, creating a rich yet tender crumb. The chocolate and pecans are evenly distributed through the batter for balanced bites.

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Lovers of This Cake

  • Chocolate enthusiasts adore the deep, rich flavor.
  • Nut lovers appreciate the toasted pecans.
  • Southern bakers who treasure traditional pound cakes.
  • Dessert lovers looking for a show-stopping bundt cake.

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Nutrition (per slice)

(approximate for 1/12 of cake)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Fat: 30g (saturated fat: 15g)
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 250mg

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Conclusion

The German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake combines classic flavors with a Southern twist, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any day you need a sweet escape. Its luscious texture and rich taste will have guests reaching for seconds. Pair with coffee or a glass of milk for a sublime experience.

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Lovers of This Recipe

  • Southern home bakers
  • Chocolate aficionados
  • Pecan lovers
  • Those who love classic bundt cakes with a twist

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