Introduction

If you adore both cheesecake and German  chocolate cake, prepare yourself for the ultimate dessert experience — the German Chocolate Cheesecake. This indulgent treat merges the rich, cocoa-laced layers of German chocolate cake with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth luxury of cheesecake, all crowned with a buttery coconut-pecan topping.

Originating in the U.S. (despite the name), German chocolate cake was named after Samuel German, who created a sweet baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company. Over time, this dessert became famous for its signature topping: a mixture of toasted pecans, coconut, and caramelized condensed milk. Now imagine that layered atop a creamy chocolate cheesecake — the result is nothing short of dessert perfection.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special gathering, this cake makes an unforgettable centerpiece. Each bite balances silky chocolate cheesecake, crunchy toasted pecans, and gooey caramel-coconut glaze — a true harmony of texture and flavor.

Preparation & Baking Time

Servings: 12–14
Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients (US Measurements)

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, crushed)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened (three 8-oz packages)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 8 oz semisweet or German’s baking chocolate, melted and cooled

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• Pinch of salt

For the Coconut-Pecan Topping:

• 1 cup evaporated milk (or heavy cream)

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten

• ½ cup unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

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Optional Garnishes:

• Whipped cream or chocolate ganache drizzle

• Extra toasted pecans

• Chocolate shavings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Mix crushed chocolate cookies, sugar, and melted butter until combined.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Tip: Wrap the outside of your springform pan with double layers of aluminum foil to prevent water leaks during baking.

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Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

2. Add both sugars and mix until well blended.

3. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.

4. Pour in the melted chocolate and cocoa powder; blend until smooth.

5. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Don’t overbeat — you want a silky, airy texture.

Chef Tip: Overmixing adds too much air to the batter and can cause cracks during baking.

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Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

2. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan and fill it with 1 inch of hot water (this is your water bath for even baking).

3. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 60–70 minutes, until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.

4. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

This slow cooling prevents sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.

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Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake

• Remove from oven and water bath.

• Run a thin knife around the edge to loosen it.

• Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Overnight chilling enhances both the texture and flavor — patience truly pays off.

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Step 5: Make the Coconut-Pecan Topping

1. In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, brown sugar, egg yolks, and butter.

2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).

3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, coconut, and toasted ecans.

4. Let cool until spreadable (about 20–30 minutes).

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Step 6: Assemble the German Chocolate Cheesecake

1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.

2. Spoon the cooled coconut-pecan topping evenly over the top.

3. Decorate with extra pecans, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of ganache for an elegant finish.

Baking & Presentation Tips

1. Prevent Cracks: Always bake in a water bath and cool gradually.

2. Smooth Texture: Use room-temperature ingredients for a lump-free batter.

3. Toasted Nuts: Always toast your pecans — it elevates the flavor dramatically.

4. Serving Temperature: For best flavor, serve slightly chilled (not ice cold).

5. Perfect Slice: Warm your knife in hot water, wipe between each cut.

Optional Variations

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesecake:

• With whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

• Alongside a hot espresso or cappuccino

• With fresh berries to balance the sweetness

 For adults, pair it with dessert wines like Port or Baileys on ice for an indulgent finish.

Calories (Approximate per Slice)

Yes, it’s rich — but worth every single bite!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 5 days.

• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

• Make Ahead: Both cheesecake and topping can be prepared a day before and assembled right before serving.

Why You’ll Love German Chocolate Cheesecake

 Combines two classic desserts into one masterpiece
 Luxuriously creamy, dense, and chocolatey
 Beautiful presentation for celebrations
 Sweet, nutty topping adds perfect texture contrast
 Can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining

Every slice of German Chocolate Cheesecake offers the best of both worlds — the indulgent richness of cheesecake and the nostalgic comfort of German chocolate cake. The glossy coconut-pecan topping provides a buttery crunch that perfectly complements the silky smoothness below.

Whether it’s for a holiday feast, birthday, or simply a weekend indulgence, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. It’s a showstopper that brings joy with every decadent forkful.