Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cake Cheesecake Bars
These indulgent bars combine the best of German chocolate cake and cheesecake in one dessert. A layer of chopped pecans and coconut creates the foundation, topped with rich German chocolate cake batter and a creamy cheese mixture that's marbled throughout. The result is a decadent treat with the classic flavors of German chocolate cake - coconut, pecans, and chocolate - enhanced by the tangy richness of cheesecake. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you want to impress with a dessert that looks complex but comes together easily using a cake mix base.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup coconut, chopped
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix, including ingredients needed on boxdevil's food cake mix1:1
Any chocolate cake mix works, though flavor will be slightly different
- ½ cup oleobutter1:1adds dairy
Use softened butter in place of oleo for richer flavor
Instructions
- 1
Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking pan and preheat oven to 350 degrees
- 2
Mix together chopped pecans and coconut
- 3
Cover the bottom of the baking pan with the pecan and coconut mixture
- 4
Mix cake batter as directed on the box
- 5
Pour cake batter over the pecans and coconut
- 6
Mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and oleo in a large bowl
- 7
Beat with hand mixer until smooth
- 8
Spoon cream cheese mixture over cake batter
- 9
Use a knife to cut through batters to create a marbleized look
- 10
Bake for 45 minutes
- 11
Let cool completely before serving
Tips
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices and proper setting of the cream cheese layer.
For best marbling effect, don't overmix when cutting through the batters - just a few gentle swirls will create the perfect pattern.
Toast the pecans lightly before chopping for enhanced nutty flavor that complements the chocolate.
Good to Know
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese layer requires refrigeration.
Can be made 1-2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate, bringing to room temperature 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. Cut into squares using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip cooling completely or the bars will be too soft to cut cleanly
Avoid overmixing the marbling to prevent muddying the visual effect
Substitutions
Any chocolate cake mix works, though flavor will be slightly different
FAQ
Can I use fresh coconut instead of packaged?
Yes, use freshly grated coconut but reduce to 3/4 cup as fresh coconut has higher moisture content.
What if I don't have oleo?
Substitute with equal amount of softened butter or margarine for similar results.
How long do these bars keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months wrapped tightly.