Name: Ultimate German Chocolate Cake Recipe with Coconut-Pecan Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1/2 cup boiling water; 4 oz German chocolate, chopped; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup butter, softened; 4 eggs, separated; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1 cup sugar; 3 egg yolks; 1/2 cup butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/3 cups flaked coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans

German Chocolate Cake is an irresistible dessert that will elevate any gathering. This classic cake is known for its rich layers of moist chocolate, perfectly complemented by a decadent coconut-pecan frosting. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among chocolate lovers, and its stunning appearance will impress your guests. Whether it’s a birthday, celebration, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this homemade German chocolate cake is sure to delight!

Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Cake

This German chocolate cake offers a delightful experience with every bite. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Moist and tender layers of chocolate cake.
Decadent coconut-pecan frosting that adds a unique texture.
Perfect for celebrations or special occasions.
Easy to follow the German chocolate cake recipe.
Great for chocolate lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Can be made ahead of time for convenience.
Offers a rich flavor profile that is simply irresistible.

This traditional German chocolate cake combines various flavors and textures, making it a standout dessert in any setting. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a good chocolate layer cake with coconut!

Ingredients for German Chocolate Cake

Gather these items:

1/2 cup boiling water
4 oz German chocolate, chopped
2 cups sugar
1 cup butter, softened
4 eggs, separated
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup sugar
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
1 cup chopped pecans

How to Make German Chocolate Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pour boiling water over chopped German chocolate in a medium bowl and stir until completely melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Cream butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl for 4-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Beat in egg yolks one at a time, then add vanilla extract and the cooled chocolate mixture, stirring until completely incorporated.
Step 4: Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl, then add to the chocolate mixture alternately with buttermilk.
Step 5: Beat egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the batter.
Step 6: Pour batter evenly into three greased and floured 9-inch cake pans. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.
Step 7: For the frosting, combine evaporated milk, sugar, and egg yolks in a heavy saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 12 minutes until thickened.
Step 8: Remove frosting from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Allow to cool until spreadable.

Pro Tips for the Perfect German Chocolate Cake

Keep these in mind:

This cake is perfect for celebrations.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
For added flavor, consider using high-quality chocolate.

Best Ways to Serve German Chocolate Cake

This delicious cake pairs wonderfully with:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
A drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra chocolate kick.
Fresh berries to balance the sweetness.

These serving ideas elevate your German chocolate dessert experience even further!

How to Store and Reheat German Chocolate Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you need to reheat, simply slice a piece and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. This method helps maintain the moistness of your moist German chocolate cake. It’s also a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About German Chocolate Cake

What’s the secret to perfect German Chocolate Cake?

The secret to a perfect German chocolate cake lies in using high-quality ingredients, especially the chocolate. Ensuring that your cake layers are evenly baked and allowing them to cool completely before frosting will also make a big difference.

Can I make German Chocolate Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the German chocolate cake recipe ahead of time. Just prepare the cake layers and store them in the refrigerator, then frost before serving. This is perfect for busy days!

How do I avoid common mistakes with German Chocolate Cake?

To avoid mistakes, ensure that you measure your ingredients accurately. Also, do not overmix the batter after adding the egg whites, as this can deflate the structure and make your cake less fluffy.

Variations of German Chocolate Cake You Can Try

There are several fun variations to explore:

For a twist, try a German chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting.
Substitute the pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Create a gluten-free version using almond flour.
Make a Bavarian chocolate cake by adding layers of Bavarian cream between the chocolate cake layers.

Experimenting with these German chocolate cake variations can lead to delightful new flavors and textures!

Ultimate German Chocolate Cake Recipe with Coconut-Pecan Frosting - German Chocolate Cake - main visual representation

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake Recipe or Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Ultimate German Chocolate Cake Recipe with Coconut-Pecan Frosting - German Chocolate Cake - additional detail

For more tips on baking, you can visit Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins and Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast.

Additionally, you can learn more about the history of chocolate cakes at The Spruce Eats.