There’s nothing quite like digging into a slice of German Chocolate Dump Cake. Imagine a dessert that’s both indulgent and effortless, with a luscious, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. This cake is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or winter evenings when comfort food is a must. Did you know that dump cakes became popular in the United States for their simplicity? Just dump the ingredients into a pan, twirl a fork for a moment, and voilà! Your dessert awaits. This recipe reminds me of my favorite chocolate chip cookies, sharing the same comforting chocolatey goodness but with a twist of convenience. Trust me, once you try this decadent treat, it will become a staple in your household!
What is German Chocolate Dump Cake?
So, what’s the deal with the name “German Chocolate”? Is the cake really German? Nope! Despite its name, this delightful dessert hails from America. It’s named after an American named Samuel German, who developed a type of dark-baking chocolate—so there’s your fun fact! This cake embodies the whimsical notion that, after all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. And what better way to win hearts than with a rich, chocolatey dessert? Ready to impress your family with minimal effort? Let’s dive into this wonderful world of flavors!
Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Dump Cake
You’re going to love this German Chocolate Dump Cake for three simple reasons. First and foremost, the cake itself is a chocolate lover’s fantasy, boasting rich flavors and a gooey texture that’s hard to resist. Secondly, cooking at home, especially with such an easy recipe, can be incredibly cost-effective. Why opt for store-bought cakes, when you can make a showstopper right in your kitchen at a fraction of the cost? Finally, the potential for toppings—from fresh whipped cream to coconut flakes—means you can customize each slice just the way you like it. Picture this: a warm slice of cake paired with a dollop of whipped cream, reminiscent of a traditional chocolate cake but with an easier twist. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
How to Make German Chocolate Dump Cake
Quick Overview
Making German Chocolate Dump Cake is a breeze. This delightful dessert is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying, featuring a mix of chocolatey goodness and pleasant textures. You’ll have it prepared in just about 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous gatherings or evening treats.
Key Ingredients for German Chocolate Dump Cake
To create this mouthwatering dessert, you will need:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) German chocolate cake mix
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- ½ cup pecans, chopped (or substitute with almonds for a nut-free option)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and water. Stir until just combined; don’t worry about the lumps!
- Pour Into the Dish: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
- Add the Layers: Carefully pour the sweetened condensed milk over the batter. It’s okay if it doesn’t cover the entire surface—trust the process! Next, sprinkle the coconut flakes and chopped pecans over the top. Finally, add your chocolate chips evenly across the cake.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges start to pull away from the dish, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the dish for around 10-15 minutes before serving warm with your favorite toppings.
Top Tips for Perfecting German Chocolate Dump Cake
- Substitutions: If needed, feel free to substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free dessert.
- Timing: Keep a close watch during the last five minutes of baking to prevent overcooking—it can dry out quickly.
- Common Mistakes: Ensure you don’t mix the sweetened condensed milk into the batter; it’s meant to create a rich, gooey layer on top!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your German Chocolate Dump Cake, simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If needed, this cake can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, place the slice in the microwave for about 20 seconds and enjoy a warm, comforting treat that tastes as good as the day it was made.
With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this German Chocolate Dump Cake will undoubtedly become a cherished recipe in your home that you can enjoy during cozy family gatherings. Don’t wait too long to give it a try—your heart (and stomach) will thank you!
German Chocolate Dump Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- ½ cup pecans, chopped or substitute with almonds for a nut-free option
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and water. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Carefully pour the sweetened condensed milk over the batter.
- Sprinkle the coconut flakes and chopped pecans over the top, then add the chocolate chips.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the edges start to pull away from the dish and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Serving
- Allow the cake to cool in the dish for around 10-15 minutes before serving warm with your favorite toppings.
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