The German Chocolate Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines two beloved classics: German chocolate cake and rich, creamy cheesecake. This indulgent treat features a chewy brownie base, a smooth cheesecake layer, and is topped with a luscious chocolate ganache and the signature coconut-pecan frosting. The fusion of chocolate and coconut creates a flavor experience that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping treat for any gathering, this dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. If you’re a fan of chocolate, cheesecake, and rich, layered desserts, this is a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 4 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
For the German Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until frothy. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture until smooth.
- Sift in the all-purpose flour, coconut flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- While the cheesecake is baking, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat, just until hot (avoid boiling).
- Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Allow the ganache to cool for 15 minutes.
4. Make the German Chocolate Frosting:
- In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a light caramel color.
- Reduce the heat and gently stir in the egg yolks. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the frosting cool for 20-25 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, pour the chocolate ganache over the top and spread evenly.
- Carefully spoon the German chocolate frosting over the ganache.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set.
6. Serve:
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Slice the cheesecake into wedges and enjoy the layers of creamy, chocolatey goodness.
Conclusion
This German Chocolate Cheesecake is the perfect balance of rich, decadent flavors and smooth textures, making it an unforgettable dessert for any occasion. From its chewy brownie base to the creamy cheesecake layer, and topped with a delicious chocolate ganache and coconut-pecan frosting, every bite is a celebration of indulgence. Serve it at birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties, and watch as it becomes the star of the show.
PrintGerman Chocolate Cheesecake
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
German Chocolate Cheesecake recipe for a rich, layered dessert with a brownie base, creamy cheesecake, chocolate ganache, and coconut-pecan frosting.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 4 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
For the German Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until frothy. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture until smooth.
- Sift in the all-purpose flour, coconut flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- While the cheesecake is baking, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat, just until hot (avoid boiling).
- Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Allow the ganache to cool for 15 minutes.
4. Make the German Chocolate Frosting:
- In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a light caramel color.
- Reduce the heat and gently stir in the egg yolks. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the frosting cool for 20-25 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, pour the chocolate ganache over the top and spread evenly.
- Carefully spoon the German chocolate frosting over the ganache.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set.
Notes
Serve:
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Slice the cheesecake into wedges and enjoy the layers of creamy, chocolatey goodness.
Storage Information
- Refrigeration: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, slice and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German, American