Dreamy German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe: A Sweet Escape

Decadent chocolate cravings meet their match in this irresistible German chocolate cheesecake that blends rich flavors into a sublime dessert.

Layers of creamy cheesecake mingle with classic German chocolate notes, creating a stunning masterpiece.

Silky smooth textures complement the deep cocoa undertones, promising an unforgettable treat.

Dreamy chocolate and coconut pecan frosting unite in perfect harmony.

Each bite delivers a luxurious experience that transforms an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary indulgence.

The combination of velvety cheesecake and traditional German chocolate elements will delight even the most discerning sweet tooth.

Prepare to savor a slice of pure culinary bliss that beckons you to indulge without restraint.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 65 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Calories: 368 kcal

Servings: 12

Ingredient List for German Chocolate Cheesecake

• Chocolate Cookie Crumbs: Provides rich base with deep chocolate flavor, select dark or chocolate wafer cookies for intense taste.
• Butter: Binds crust ingredients together, use unsalted butter for precise flavor control.

• Cream Cheese: Creates smooth, creamy texture, choose full-fat variety for best consistency.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances chocolate intensity, use fine granulated sugar for even mixing.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep chocolate profile, select high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for rich color.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness, use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and moisture, select full-fat sour cream for luxurious texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor complexity, use pure vanilla extract for authentic taste.
• Melted Chocolate: Introduces decadent chocolate layer, select dark or semi-sweet chocolate for balanced sweetness.

• Evaporated Milk: Creates silky caramel-like sauce, use full-fat version for richness.
• Sugar: Sweetens and thickens topping, granulated white sugar works best.
• Egg Yolks: Helps thicken sauce, ensure fresh eggs for food safety.
• Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture, unsalted butter recommended.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out flavor profile, pure extract preferred.
• Shredded Coconut: Provides tropical texture, use unsweetened for control.
• Pecans: Adds crunch and nutty depth, toast lightly for enhanced flavor.

Kitchen Gear List for German Chocolate Cheesecake

• Springform Pan: Essential for creating the perfect cheesecake shape with removable sides.
• Electric Mixer: Crucial for beating cream cheese, sugar, and creating a smooth, creamy filling.
• Mixing Bowls: Large bowl for combining ingredients and smaller bowls for various preparations.
• Aluminum Foil: Needed to wrap pan bottom and prevent water from seeping in during baking.
• Baking Dish: Larger dish for creating water bath while baking the cheesecake.
• Saucepan: Used for preparing the coconut-pecan topping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements ensure recipe success.
• Spatula: Helps smooth batter and spread topping evenly.
• Whisk: Great for mixing ingredients and incorporating cocoa powder.

How to Make It for German Chocolate Cheesecake

• Prep Your Baking Station

Gather your equipment and line a springform pan with a chocolate cookie base. Wrap the pan’s exterior in foil to prevent water seepage during baking.

• Whip Up the Creamy Chocolate Center

Blend cream cheese with sugar until silky smooth. Fold in cocoa, eggs, sour cream, and melted chocolate to create a luscious, velvety filling.

• Create the Water Bath Magic

Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan. Place the pan inside a larger dish filled with hot water, which helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.

• Bake and Cool with Patience

Slide the cheesecake into a preheated oven at 325F. Bake until edges are set but center remains slightly wobbly. After baking, let it rest in the oven with the door cracked open, then cool completely at room temperature.

• Craft the Decadent Topping

Simmer evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a saucepan until thickened. Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans to create a rich, caramel-like coating.

• Final Touches and Serving

Generously spread the coconut-pecan mixture over the chilled cheesecake. Slice and serve this indulgent dessert straight from the refrigerator, enjoying every creamy, nutty bite.

Twists and Techniques for German Chocolate Cheesecake

• Water Bath Pro Tip: Ensure a perfectly smooth cheesecake by wrapping the springform pan in double layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water seepage during baking.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to create a smoother, lump-free batter.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap chocolate cookie crumbs with gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs or ground almond flour to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This decadent cheesecake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop and making party planning a breeze.
• Decoration Alternatives: Jazz up the dessert with chocolate shavings, toasted coconut flakes, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an extra elegant presentation.

Serving Time Tips for German Chocolate Cheesecake

• Elegant Dessert Companion: Pair this decadent German Chocolate Cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy, contrasting texture that enhances the rich chocolate flavors.
• Sweet Beverage Pairing: Serve alongside a steaming cup of dark roast coffee or a smooth espresso to complement the cake's deep chocolate notes and cut through its richness.
• Festive Presentation Hack: Dust the plate with cocoa powder before placing the cheesecake slice, then add a few whole pecans and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a restaurant-worthy presentation that delights the eyes and taste buds.
• Seasonal Garnish Option: Top with fresh seasonal berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a bright, tangy contrast to the sweet and nutty cheesecake, creating a beautiful and delicious final touch.

Plan + Store Smart for German Chocolate Cheesecake

• Fridge Storage Strategy: Keep the cheesecake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent absorbing other refrigerator odors. Always store in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf.
• Freezing Technique: Slice the cheesecake into individual portions before freezing. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
• Freshness Maintenance: Consume the cheesecake within 5 days for optimal taste and texture. The coconut-pecan topping tends to soften slightly over time, so it's best enjoyed within the first 3 days after preparation.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the cheesecake base and topping separately up to 2 days in advance. Keep the base refrigerated and the topping in a sealed container. Assemble just before serving to ensure maximum flavor and texture integrity.

Luscious German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

German chocolate cheesecake merges rich chocolate and coconut in a luxurious dessert. Silky cream cheese layers blend with classic German chocolate cake notes, creating an irresistible treat for chocolate enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

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• 3 packages (24 oz/675 g) cream cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups (150 g) chocolate cookie crumbs
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (75 g) sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup (90 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
• ½ cup (120 ml) evaporated milk
• ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tsps vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 325F (163C). Butter springform pan and wrap exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water infiltration.
2. Crust Formation: Blend cookie crumbs with melted butter, pressing mixture firmly and evenly into pan bottom. Refrigerate while preparing filling components.
3. Filling Creation: Whip cream cheese and sugar until silky. Integrate cocoa powder for robust chocolate depth. Gently fold in eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Incorporate melted chocolate until achieving a uniform, luxurious consistency.
4. Baking Process: Pour filling over chilled crust, smoothing surface precisely. Place pan in larger water bath, creating one-inch steam environment. Bake until edges set and center remains slightly tremulous, approximately 55-65 minutes.
5. Cooling Technique: Deactivate oven, leaving door slightly ajar for one-hour gradual cooling. Transfer to countertop, then refrigerate for minimum four hours to stabilize structure.
6. Topping Preparation: Simmer evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in saucepan. Stir continuously until mixture transforms into rich, caramel-like texture. Remove from heat, fold in vanilla, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Cool completely.
7. Final Assembly: Spread coconut-pecan mixture generously across cheesecake surface. Optional garnishing with additional pecans or chocolate drizzle.
8. Serving: Slice carefully. Refrigerate remaining portions in sealed container for up to five days.

Notes

• Prevent Cracking Technique: Create a steam bath by placing the springform pan in a larger water-filled dish to maintain moisture and prevent surface cracking during baking.
• Temperature Control Trick: Allow cheesecake to cool gradually by leaving it in the oven with the door slightly open after baking, reducing the risk of sudden temperature changes that cause splitting.
• Smooth Filling Strategy: Whip cream cheese and sugar thoroughly until completely smooth, adding eggs one at a time to ensure a silky, lump-free texture and consistent chocolate incorporation.
• Topping Precision Method: Cook the coconut-pecan topping slowly and continuously stir to achieve a perfect caramel-like consistency without burning, removing from heat immediately when thickened.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 32 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg