German Chocolate Cupcakes

German chocolate cake was always one of those desserts that felt a little extra special growing up, it was a favorite of my dads. Rich chocolate, buttery coconut pecan frosting, and the kind of recipe that always made birthdays and celebrations feel a little sweeter. This gluten-free and dairy-free version keeps everything we love about the classic while making it friendly for everyone gathered around the table.

Back in 2015, I made these German Chocolate Cupcakes for the blog and felt like the recipe needed a refresh. I used Sunbutter in the old recipe and wanted to elevate them using coffee instead. 

I hope these bless your table the way they've blessed mine through the years. 

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INGREDIENTS

Cupcakes

• 1¾ cups gluten-free 1:1 baking flour (I like King Arthur or Bob's Red Mill)
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup organic cane sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup avocado oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsweetened oat milk (or almond milk)
• ½ cup hot brewed coffee (or hot water)

Coconut Pecan Frosting

• 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• ¼ cup dairy-free butter
• 1 tsp vanilla
• pinch of salt
• 1¼ cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
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DIRECTIONS

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Line cupcake tins.
• Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 
• In another bowl whisk eggs, sugars, oil and vanilla.
• Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the oat milk.
• Slowly stir in the hot coffee.
• The batter will be thin—that's what makes these incredibly moist.
• Fill liners about ⅔ full and bake for 18-22 minutes.
• Cool completely before frosting.

Make The Frosting

• In a saucepan combine coconut milk, brown sugar, egg yolks, dairy-free butter and salt.
  
• Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
  
• After about 10–12 minutes it will begin to thicken.
  
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut and toasted pecans.
  
• Allow to cool until spreadable.

Pile frosting generously on each cupcake. Don't pipe it.
German chocolate frosting looks best rustic and homemade.

Nosh & Nurture Tip:

Nosh & Nurture TipToast the pecans before chopping.
It makes an enormous flavor difference.