Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

The Best Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe Ever Made

Indulging in a giant german chocolate cheesecake transports you to a realm of decadent dessert bliss.

Layers of rich chocolate and creamy filling promise an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Coconut and pecan accents add texture and depth to this magnificent treat.

Bakers seeking a showstopping dessert will find pure magic in every slice.

Chocolate lovers appreciate the intricate balance of flavors melding together.

Smooth cream cheese and deep cocoa notes create a harmonious experience.

FAQs To Guide You Through Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake

  • What are the key components of the German chocolate cheesecake?

The key components include a graham cracker crust, rich chocolate cheesecake filling, and a traditional coconut-pecan frosting topping that gives the dessert its distinctive German chocolate flavor profile.

  • Is this cheesecake difficult to make for beginners?

While it looks impressive, the recipe is quite straightforward. By following the steps carefully and preparing ingredients in advance, even novice bakers can successfully create this delicious dessert.

  • Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have exact items?

Yes, you can use alternatives like chocolate cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers, or adjust the sugar levels slightly. Just ensure you maintain similar proportions to keep the texture and taste consistent.

What Makes Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake A Showstopper

  • Craft a Decadent Dessert: Impress guests and family with a showstopping cheesecake that combines rich German chocolate flavors in an extraordinary way.
  • Simplify Baking Process: The straightforward recipe requires minimal technical skills, making it accessible for bakers of all experience levels.
  • Perfect for Special Celebrations: Create a stunning centerpiece dessert that elevates birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or weekend family dinners with its luxurious chocolate and creamy texture.
  • No-Stress Preparation: Basic ingredients and easy mixing technique ensure anyone can successfully create this indulgent treat without feeling overwhelmed by complicated steps.

Essential Ingredients For Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake

Crust:
  • Graham Crackers: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to enhance the crust's flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, smooth texture.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary component that gives the cheesecake its smooth and creamy texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese.
  • Large Eggs: Help bind the filling and create a stable, rich consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor that complements the chocolate.
  • Sour Cream: Contributes to the creamy texture and adds a slight tanginess.
Chocolate and Topping:
  • German Chocolate: A key flavor component that gives the cheesecake its distinctive taste.
  • Coconut, Pecans: Traditional German chocolate cake toppings that add texture and nutty flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Used to create a smooth chocolate ganache or topping.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness and sweetness to the topping.

How To Prepare Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake Easily

Step 1: Craft the Decadent Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend with:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Melted butter

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a smooth, even base. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese until silky smooth. Gradually add:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Eggs
  • Sour cream
  • Vanilla extract
  • Melted German chocolate

Whisk the ingredients until fully incorporated and free of lumps, creating a luxurious, velvety mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Water Bath

Wrap the outside of the springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the outer dish with hot water, reaching about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.

Step 4: Bake to Creamy Perfection

Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Carefully transfer the water bath setup to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Remove from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Create the Coconut Pecan Topping

In a saucepan, combine:
  • Evaporated milk
  • Egg yolks
  • Granulated sugar
  • Butter
  • Vanilla extract
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and fold in:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans

Let the topping cool slightly.

Step 7: Finish and Garnish

Spread the coconut pecan topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Optionally, garnish with additional chocolate shavings or toasted pecans. Slice and serve chilled for a show-stopping dessert.

Expert Tips For Flawless Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Select Premium Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate and fresh cream cheese for the most luxurious flavor and smooth texture.
  • Prevent Cracks Strategically: Place a water bath around the cheesecake while baking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent surface cracking.
  • Room Temperature Magic: Bring cream cheese, eggs, and other dairy ingredients to room temperature before mixing to create a silky, lump-free batter.
  • Control Coconut Consistency: Toast coconut flakes lightly before adding to the topping for enhanced nutty flavor and crispier texture.
  • Chill Completely: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly and develop deeper flavors.

Delicious Variations To Try With Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cheesecake: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Chocolate Coconut Cheesecake: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut whipped cream, and substitute eggs with flax eggs.
  • Low-Carb German Chocolate Cheesecake: Use almond flour or crushed pecans instead of graham crackers, and replace sugar with erythritol or stevia.
  • No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Cheesecake: Skip the baking process by chilling the cheesecake in the refrigerator, using gelatin to help set the filling.

Best Pairings For Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake Enjoyment

  • Pair with Rich Coconut Rum Cocktail: Blend coconut rum, cream of coconut, and a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical drink that echoes the cake's German chocolate flavors.
  • Complement with Toasted Pecan Coffee: Brew a medium roast coffee and sprinkle toasted pecans on top, matching the nutty notes found in the cheesecake's coconut-pecan frosting.
  • Serve alongside Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Scoop creamy vanilla bean ice cream to cut through the dense richness of the cheesecake, providing a cool and smooth contrast.
  • Enhance with Dark Chocolate Port: Select a sweet, robust port wine with dark chocolate undertones that harmonize perfectly with the cake's chocolate and coconut layers.

Storage Guidelines For Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid, keeping it fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months for longer preservation.
  • Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly overnight, maintaining its creamy texture and preventing moisture loss.
  • Warm individual slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving, or use low microwave settings in 10-second intervals to prevent texture breakdown.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Giant German Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent giant German chocolate cheesecake brings together rich chocolate, creamy layers, and nutty coconut in one spectacular dessert. Chocolate lovers will savor each luxurious bite of this show-stopping centerpiece that promises pure dessert bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (210 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:

  • 4 (8 ounces/226 grams) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Topping Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) evaporated milk
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) german chocolate, melted (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 325F (163C) and delicately coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine crushed graham crackers with granulated sugar and melted butter, thoroughly blending until the mixture achieves a consistent, moist texture.
  3. Gently press the crumb mixture into the pan’s base, creating a uniform, compact foundation that will serve as the cheesecake’s sturdy bottom layer.
  4. Slide the crust into the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, allowing it to set and develop a light golden hue, then remove and permit complete cooling.
  5. Prepare the cheesecake filling by meticulously blending cream cheese until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain for a silky-perfect texture.
  6. Gradually incorporate sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing carefully to maintain a luxurious, creamy consistency without overmixing.
  7. Pour the velvety filling over the cooled crust, using a spatula to spread evenly and eliminate potential air pockets.
  8. For the signature German chocolate topping, toast coconut and pecans until fragrant and golden, releasing their rich, nutty essence.
  9. Create a luscious caramel-like coconut pecan sauce by simmering evaporated milk, egg yolks, sugar, and butter until thickened and glossy.
  10. Once the cheesecake is baked and slightly cooled, generously drizzle the warm coconut-pecan topping across the surface, allowing it to cascade beautifully.
  11. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight, enabling the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.

Notes

  • Opt for high-quality chocolate to enhance the rich flavor profile of the German chocolate cheesecake.
  • Consider using room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth and creamy cheesecake texture.
  • Prevent cracks by baking the cheesecake in a water bath, which creates gentle and even heat distribution.
  • Customize the dessert by adding toasted pecans or coconut flakes to the traditional German chocolate topping for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 195
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star