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Homemade German Chocolate Upside-Down Cake photo

German Chocolate Upside-Down Cake

This German Chocolate Upside-Down Cake is SO DELICIOUS! Rich chocolate cake topped with caramelized pecans and coconut; impressive and easy to make for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Spatula
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Serving platter

Ingredients
  

For the Topping

  • 1/4 cup butter melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 cup pecans
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut divided

For the Cake

  • 1 box German Chocolate cake mix
  • ingredients listed on the cake mix box usually includes eggs, water, and oil

For the Frosting

  • 8 tablespoons butter softened
  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese softened
  • 1 (16-ounce) box confectioners sugar

For Serving (Optional)

  • whipped cream optional

Instructions
 

German Chocolate Upside-Down Cake

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and packed brown sugar until well blended. Pour this mixture into the bottom of your greased 9x13-inch baking pan.
  • Sprinkle the pecans evenly over the butter and brown sugar mixture. Then, add 1 cup of the shredded coconut, spreading it evenly across the top.
  • In a separate bowl, prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box, typically combining the mix with eggs, water, and oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  • Carefully pour the cake batter over the topping in the pan, making sure to cover the pecans and coconut evenly.
  • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter, allowing the caramel topping to cascade over the cake.
  • While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, beating until smooth and fluffy.
  • Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded coconut on top of the frosted cake for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
  • Slice the cake and serve with optional whipped cream on the side for a delightful finishing touch.

Notes

  • Grease the pan well to prevent sticking when flipping the cake.
  • Toast pecans before adding for added flavor.
  • Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the frosting for a richer chocolate taste.
  • This cake can be made a day ahead; keep covered at room temperature.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Keyword Chocolate, Coconut, Crowd-Pleasing, Easy, German Chocolate, Pecans, Upside-Down Cake