In making the Hot German Chocolate, what is the second ingredient added after coconut?

In the preparation of Hot German Chocolate, the sequence of ingredient addition is important for achieving the desired flavor and texture. The correct next ingredient to add after coconut is caramel. Caramel adds a rich, sweet depth to the drink, complementing the coconut's natural sweetness and helping to create that signature German chocolate flavor profile.

Coconut is typically incorporated first to establish a foundation of flavor, and caramel enhances this by providing that necessary balance of sweetness and a smooth, buttery taste. In contrast, while chocolate milk, breve, and espresso are also common components in many coffee drinks, they do not follow coconut in the specific process of creating Hot German Chocolate as they serve different purposes in beverages and would alter the intended outcome if added at this stage.