German Chocolate Dump Cake

This German Chocolate Dump Cake is the ultimate shortcut dessert that delivers bakery-style flavor with minimal effort. Layers of chocolate cake, coconut, toasted pecans, and a creamy frosting bake together into a rich, gooey, crowd-pleasing treat that looks just like the classic version—without the extra work.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No mixing bowls required for the cake layer
• Classic German chocolate flavor with coconut and pecans
• Rich, creamy frosting baked right on top
• Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and last-minute desserts
• Beginner-friendly with impressive results

Ingredients

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1½ cups chopped toasted pecans, divided
• 1 package devil’s food cake mix (regular size)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer the base: Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Add pecans: Scatter 1 cup of the chopped toasted pecans over the coconut layer.
4. Cake mix layer: Evenly sprinkle the dry devil’s food cake mix over the coconut and pecans. Do not prepare the cake mix.
5. Prepare frosting mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
   • Add the melted butter and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
   • Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Top the cake: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dry cake mix.
7. Add chocolate: Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips over the top.
8. Finish with pecans: Scatter the remaining ½ cup chopped pecans evenly across the surface.
9. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges are bubbly.
10. Cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set while remaining gooey.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Toast pecans beforehand for deeper flavor
• Serve warm for a molten texture or chilled for cleaner slices
• Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup after baking for extra indulgence
• Use mini chocolate chips for more even distribution

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
• Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings
• Pair with coffee or hot chocolate
• Perfect as a holiday dessert table centerpiece

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
• Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 15–20 seconds
• Freezing: Not recommended due to cream cheese texture

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, bake a day in advance and refrigerate. Reheat before serving if desired.

Why is it called a dump cake?
Because ingredients are layered by “dumping” them into the pan—no mixing required.

Can I use a different cake mix?
Devil’s food cake gives the best classic flavor, but chocolate fudge also works.

Conclusion

This German Chocolate Dump Cake proves that simple desserts can still be incredibly rich, nostalgic, and visually stunning. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a guaranteed favorite for any occasion.

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