German Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic German Chocolate Cake, combining rich flavors of chocolate, coconut, and pecans into a creamy frozen treat.
This recipe captures the essence of the cake’s signature layers, transforming them into a smooth, indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion.
With a rich chocolate base, a sweet coconut-pecan swirl, and a creamy texture that melts in your mouth, this ice cream brings the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
A fan of the original German Chocolate Cake or just love a unique ice cream flavor, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Homemade German Chocolate Ice Cream is not only delicious but also a fun way to enjoy a beloved dessert in a cool, refreshing form.
Why This German Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This German Chocolate Ice Cream recipe is a must-try because it perfectly blends the rich, indulgent flavors of a classic German chocolate cake into a creamy frozen treat.
The smooth chocolate base combined with caramelized coconut and crunchy pecans creates a deliciously unique texture and flavor that’s hard to resist.
It’s the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, coconut, and nuts, offering a refreshing twist on a beloved favorite.
With its creamy richness and irresistible sweetness, this ice cream is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings in a whole new way!

How To Prepare German Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe?
Preparation time: 15 minutes (excluding cooling time)
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: German-inspired
Yield: 4 servings
Equipment Needed
- Ice Cream Maker
- Mixing Bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 4 oz German chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (toasted)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture just to a simmer. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over.
2. Melt the German Chocolate
While the milk and cream are heating up, chop the German chocolate into small pieces. Add the chopped chocolate to the saucepan once the milk and cream mixture has heated through. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated.
3. Whisk the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and smooth. This will help create a creamy custard base.
4. Temper the Eggs
To avoid scrambling the eggs, slowly pour a small amount of the hot chocolate cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Once the egg mixture has warmed up, gradually pour it back into the saucepan with the rest of the cream, whisking continuously.
5. Cook the Custard
Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook the custard, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can curdle the mixture.
6. Chill the Custard
Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any bits of cooked egg. Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
7. Churn the Ice Cream
Once the custard has chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It should take around 15–20 minutes to reach a soft-serve consistency.
8. Add Coconut and Pecans
During the last few minutes of churning, add the toasted shredded coconut and chopped pecans to the ice cream mixture. This will ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the ice cream.
9. Freeze the Ice Cream
Transfer the ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up.
Special Note
For the best flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate and fresh, unsweetened coconut. Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, depending on your preference.
This recipe can be customized with additional toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent treat!
Nutrition Facts German Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe
Calories: 350
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 40mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 29g
Protein: 3g
Serving Suggestions
This German chocolate ice cream can be enjoyed in so many ways. Here are a few ideas to take it to the next level:
1. Ice Cream Sundae:
Top your scoop with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a few extra toasted pecans for a delicious sundae.
2. With Waffle Cone:
Serve the ice cream in a crispy waffle cone for a fun twist on a classic.
3. Layered in Cake:
Use this ice cream as a filling between layers of chocolate cake for a decadent ice cream cake.
Tips And Variations
Tips
1. Use high-quality chocolate:
The base of your ice cream will taste much richer if you use high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate. It’ll give the ice cream a smoother, deeper chocolate flavor.
2. Chill the base thoroughly:
Make sure the ice cream mixture is completely chilled before churning. This helps achieve a smoother texture and faster freezing.
3. Toast the coconut:
Toasting the coconut flakes before adding them to the ice cream enhances their natural flavor and gives them a delightful crunch.
Variations
1. Add a swirl of caramel:
For an extra layer of sweetness, swirl in some caramel sauce before freezing. It pairs perfectly with the coconut and pecans.
2. Use a dairy-free version:
Substitute coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate for a dairy-free take on the recipe, keeping the flavors intact.
3. Add a splash of rum:
A small amount of dark rum can complement the rich chocolate flavor and add a sophisticated twist to the ice cream.
Hints and Tips For Successful german chocolate ice cream recipe Baking
1. Cool the custard base completely:
After cooking the ice cream base, let it cool to room temperature before chilling it in the fridge. This helps prevent any grainy texture and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency once frozen.
2. Properly chop the chocolate:
Finely chop the chocolate before melting it into the custard. Smaller pieces melt more evenly, creating a smoother base with no chunks or lumps.
3. Monitor freezing time:
When using an ice cream maker, don’t over-churn. Once the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency, stop the machine to avoid making it too icy or hard. Then, transfer it to the freezer for a few hours to firm up.
How To Store Leftovers German Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe
To store leftover German Chocolate Ice Cream, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer.
Be sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks!
Conclusion
German Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe is a deliciously indulgent dessert that brings together the rich flavors of a classic German chocolate cake in a creamy, frozen form.
The combination of smooth chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans makes each bite a satisfying treat.
It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own, paired with cake, or topped with your favorite extras.
Simple to make and easy to customize, this ice cream is sure to become a favorite among chocolate lovers making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this German Chocolate Ice Cream is a must-try that never disappoints!

German Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker
- Mixing bowls
- saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 4 oz German chocolate chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut toasted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans toasted
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Custard Base
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture just to a simmer. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over.
Melt the German Chocolate
- While the milk and cream are heating up, chop the German chocolate into small pieces. Add the chopped chocolate to the saucepan once the milk and cream mixture has heated through. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated.
Whisk the Egg Yolks
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and smooth. This will help create a creamy custard base.
Temper the Eggs
- To avoid scrambling the eggs, slowly pour a small amount of the hot chocolate cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Once the egg mixture has warmed up, gradually pour it back into the saucepan with the rest of the cream, whisking continuously.
Cook the Custard
- Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook the custard, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can curdle the mixture.
Chill the Custard
- Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any bits of cooked egg. Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Churn the Ice Cream
- Once the custard has chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It should take around 15–20 minutes to reach a soft-serve consistency.
Add Coconut and Pecans
- During the last few minutes of churning, add the toasted shredded coconut and chopped pecans to the ice cream mixture. This will ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the ice cream.
Freeze the Ice Cream
- Transfer the ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up.