Easy German Chocolate Dump Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Easy German Chocolate Dump Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining rich chocolate, toasted pecans, and sweet coconut in a simple, no-fuss recipe. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly with minimal effort.

Ingredients
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups chopped toasted pecans, divided
- 1 package devil’s food cake mix (regular size)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the shredded coconut and 1 cup of the chopped toasted pecans evenly across the bottom.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the devil’s food cake mix evenly over the coconut and pecans layer.
- Step 4: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Step 5: Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing thoroughly until creamy and smooth.
- Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake mix layer.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips and the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans on top.
- Step 8: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is set and golden.
- Step 9: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, so the layers can settle and flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, use homemade toasted pecans or substitute with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter topping, increase the amount of confectioners’ sugar slightly or add a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.
- Letting the cake cool completely before slicing helps it hold together better.
Storage
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings gently in the microwave for about 20 seconds to bring back some softness and warmth, or enjoy chilled as a refreshing treat.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the devil’s food cake mix with chocolate or even white cake mix for a different flavor profile, though devil’s food gives the richest chocolate taste.
Is it necessary to toast the pecans?
Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a crunchy texture, but if you’re short on time, you can use them raw—just the flavor will be milder.
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Easy German Chocolate Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Easy German Chocolate Dump Cake is a deliciously rich and moist dessert that combines classic German chocolate cake flavors with the convenience of a dump cake. Featuring layers of sweetened coconut, toasted pecans, devil’s food cake mix, and a creamy cream cheese topping, this cake bakes up quickly and is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 package devil’s food cake mix (regular size)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups chopped toasted pecans, divided
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Wet Ingredients & Mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the cake evenly.
- Layer Coconut and Pecans: Spread the sweetened shredded coconut evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then sprinkle 1 cup of the chopped toasted pecans over the coconut layer.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the entire package of devil’s food cake mix evenly over the coconut and pecan mixture to create the next layer.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add the 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat until well combined and smooth.
- Top Cake Mix: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake mix layer, distributing it as uniformly as possible.
- Add Final Toppings: Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips and the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped toasted pecans over the cream cheese dollops to complete the topping.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cake is set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.
- This cake can be served warm or at room temperature and pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: German chocolate cake, dump cake, easy dessert, coconut, pecans, cream cheese dessert, chocolate cake

