If you want to bake a dessert that combines indulgence with tradition, look no further than the German Chocolate Cake. With its rich chocolate base and signature coconut pecan frosting, this cake offers a unique balance of textures and flavours. Despite its name, this recipe is an all-American creation, named after Samuel German, who developed the chocolate integral to this dessert.
For those who enjoy exploring other Southern-inspired desserts, this guide to Blackberry Dumplins is a delightful complement to your baking repertoire.
Why German Chocolate Cake Stands Out
What makes the German Chocolate Cake so unique? It’s not just the decadent layers but also ingredients like sweetened coconut and chopped pecans in the frosting. This combination brings a nutty, caramel-like flavour that pairs perfectly with the soft, moist cake layers.
Want more layered dessert ideas? Consider trying this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for a crunchy yet creamy experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake Base
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- One ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- One teaspoon salt
- Two large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- Two teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
the Coconut Pecan Frosting
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter
- Three egg yolks
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Chocolate Frosting
- ½ cup butter
- ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ⅓ cup evaporated milk
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparing the Cake Base
- Mix dry ingredients: Sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add boiling water gradually, making the batter thin for a moist cake.
- Bake: Pour batter into greased pans and bake at 375°F for 25–35 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
- Coconut Pecan Frosting
- Combine evaporated milk, brown sugar, butter, and egg yolks in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Cool completely before using.
- Chocolate Frosting
- Melt butter and mix with cocoa powder.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and evaporated milk, alternating to achieve the desired consistency.
- Stir in vanilla for extra richness.
- Assembling the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of chocolate frosting.
- Add half the coconut pecan frosting as a filling.
- Stack the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with chocolate frosting.
- Finish with the remaining coconut pecan frosting on the top.
Additional Recipes to Complement Your Cake
- Enhance your dessert table with these Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls, a fruity and flaky delight.
- If you love chocolate-based treats, check out the Ultimate Guide to Chocolate Pound Cake.
Expert Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Make-Ahead Frosting: Prepare the frostings a Day in advance and refrigerate them for easy assembly.
- Freezing Layers: Wrap cake layers tightly and freeze for up to three months for a fresh-tasting dessert.
Final Thoughts
With its rich chocolate layers and nutty, caramel-like frosting, the German Chocolate Cake is a show-stopper at any gathering. Explore related desserts for inspiration, and let your baking adventures take you to new heights. Whether you’re indulging in cake or complementing it with other sweet treats, this recipe guarantees smiles.
