Name: German Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1 cup granulated sugar (for frosting); 3 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Jump to Recipe

German Chocolate Cake is a classic dessert that is loved by many for its rich flavors and delightful textures. This cake is not from Germany, but rather named after an American named Samuel German, who developed a type of dark-baking chocolate in 1852. The cake features several layers of chocolate cake topped with a deliciously sweet coconut and pecan frosting, making it a standout treat for any special occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

Making German Chocolate Cake is a fantastic way to show off your baking skills and impress family and friends. Not only is it a beautiful cake, but it also combines chocolate, coconut, and pecans for a delightful taste experience. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just indulging yourself, this cake will make the occasion memorable.

How to Make German Chocolate Cake

Making German Chocolate Cake is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps to create a cake that will surely delight anyone who tastes it.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup granulated sugar (for frosting)
3 large egg yolks
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab three 9-inch round baking pans and grease and flour them.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir to blend.
Add in the whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until well combined.
Reduce the mixer speed and carefully pour in the boiling water, then beat for about a minute.
Evenly pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let them cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pans and cooling on a wire rack.
For the frosting, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, unsalted butter, and vanilla in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened, about 12 minutes.
Stir in sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans and let the frosting cool.
Once cooled, frost the cake layers with the coconut-pecan frosting between layers and around the sides.

How to Serve German Chocolate Cake

To serve German Chocolate Cake, simply slice it into generous pieces. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

How to Store German Chocolate Cake

To store your German Chocolate Cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a few days. If you need to keep it for longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Tips to Make German Chocolate Cake

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
Don’t overmix the batter once you add the boiling water; mix just until combined.
Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Variation

You can experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, in the frosting. Some people also like to add chocolate chips to the frosting for an extra chocolatey kick!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but the cake may turn out a bit different.

2. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
Try using a gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour, and make sure other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

3. Can I freeze German Chocolate Cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake layers without frosting. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. You can frost the cake once it’s thawed.