Description
German Chocolate Cheesecake recipe for a rich, layered dessert with a brownie base, creamy cheesecake, chocolate ganache, and coconut-pecan frosting.
Ingredients
Scale
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