Ultimate German Chocolate Cupcakes Recipe

If you love decadent desserts, German Chocolate Cupcakes are the perfect treat to add to your baking repertoire. These cupcakes capture all the flavors of the classic German Chocolate Cake in a convenient, individually portioned dessert.

With a moist, chocolatey base and a rich coconut-pecan frosting, each bite is a celebration of texture and taste.

Whether you’re baking for a special event, gifting a homemade treat, or simply indulging a chocolate craving, these cupcakes deliver big flavor in a small package.

Ingredients Checklist

Start your cupcake journey by gathering fresh, quality ingredients. Precise measurements and good technique guarantee the best flavor and texture.

For the Chocolate Cupcakes:

• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch process for richer flavor, if available)

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 4 oz (115g) German’s sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled

• ½ cup (120ml) hot water or hot coffee (for extra depth)

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

• 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 3 large egg yolks

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup (100g) sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup (120g) toasted pecans, chopped

• Pinch of salt

Essential Kitchen Tools:

• 12-cup muffin tin and cupcake liners

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)

• Hand or stand mixer

• Whisk and spatula

• Small saucepan

• Cooling rack

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to create perfect German Chocolate Cupcakes, from prepping your pan to frosting each cupcake.

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Line a standard muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract.

• Add the melted and slightly cooled German’s sweet chocolate, whisking until fully combined.

4. Combine and Finish Batter

• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Add the hot water or coffee.

• Stir or whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cupcakes light and moist.

5. Fill and Bake

• Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

• Bake for 16–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

• Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

6. Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

• In a medium saucepan, whisk evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10–12 minutes). The mixture should coat the back of a spoon.

• Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, coconut, pecans, and a pinch of salt.

• Cool the frosting to room temperature. It will thicken as it cools.

7. Frost the Cupcakes

• Once the cupcakes and frosting are fully cooled, spoon a generous amount of frosting onto each cupcake.

• For a decorative finish, use a piping bag or simply pile the frosting high with a spoon.

Tips for Perfect German Chocolate Cupcakes

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, buttermilk, and butter are at room temperature for the smoothest batter.

• Melt Chocolate Properly: Melt German’s chocolate gently over low heat or in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the flour disappears for a tender crumb.

• Cool Thoroughly: Wait until both cupcakes and frosting are completely cool before assembling to avoid runny frosting.

• Toasting Pecans: Always toast pecans before chopping for maximum flavor.

Variations and Ideas

• Ganache-Filled: Core cooled cupcakes and fill with a rich chocolate ganache before topping with frosting.

• Double Frosting: Pipe a chocolate buttercream border and fill the center with coconut-pecan frosting for bakery-style presentation.

• Nut-Free: Omit pecans and use extra coconut for a nut-free treat.

• Mini Cupcakes: Divide batter into 24 mini cupcake liners and reduce bake time to 10–12 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

German Chocolate Cupcakes make any event more special. Serve them with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.

• Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

• Coffee or milk for a comforting dessert break.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• In the Fridge: Refrigerate for up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

• Freezing: Unfrosted cupcakes freeze well—wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving.

• Frosting Ahead: The frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Let it soften before using.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different chocolate?
Yes, if you can’t find German’s sweet chocolate, use a blend of semisweet chocolate and a little extra sugar for a similar taste.

Why is my frosting runny?
It likely needs more cooking time or cooling. Continue cooking until thick, or chill it until it thickens.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double all ingredients for 24 cupcakes. Bake in batches or use two muffin tins.

Can I make them nut-free?
Yes, simply leave out the pecans—there’s enough texture from the coconut.

Final Thoughts

German Chocolate Cupcakes are a crowd-pleasing twist on a classic, combining moist chocolate cake with a luscious, nutty topping. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to master these cupcakes with confidence. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own spin, these treats are guaranteed to bring smiles to every occasion.