German Chocolate Cake

introduction

German Chocolate Cake is a delicious treat that combines rich chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans. This classic dessert is perfect for celebrations or just a cozy afternoon snack. Many love indulging in the unique flavor combination, making it a great choice for gatherings. If you’re looking for a sweet delight, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. Learn more about making a decadent version of this cake in our recipe for decadent German chocolate coconut pecan roll cake.

why make this recipe

Making German Chocolate Cake is not only fun but also rewarding. The layers of moist chocolate cake paired with creamy frosting create a delightful dessert experience. It’s ideal for special occasions, but you can also enjoy it any day of the week. Plus, this recipe uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens.

how to make German Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

1. 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2. 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3. 2 cups granulated sugar
4. 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
5. 1 teaspoon baking powder
6. 1/2 teaspoon salt
7. 1 cup buttermilk
8. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
9. 2 large eggs
10. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
11. 1 cup boiling water
12. 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
13. 1 cup pecans, chopped
14. 1/2 cup butter
15. 1 cup brown sugar
16. 1/2 cup evaporated milk
17. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually stir in the boiling water until well combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, in a saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla over medium heat until melted and bubbly.
8. Stir in the coconut and pecans. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before spreading between the cooled cake layers and on top.

how to serve German Chocolate Cake

Serve German Chocolate Cake at room temperature or chilled. Depending on your preference, you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor. This cake also pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.

how to store German Chocolate Cake

To store German Chocolate Cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure to let it sit out at room temperature for a short time before serving to ensure maximum flavor.

tips to make German Chocolate Cake

• Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Don’t skip the step of letting the cakes cool completely before frosting; this will prevent the frosting from melting.
• Experiment with different nuts if you want to switch out pecans, such as walnuts or almonds.

variation

For a fun twist, you can make cupcakes instead of a whole cake. Simply bake the batter in cupcake liners for a convenient handheld treat.

FAQs

What makes German Chocolate Cake different from regular chocolate cake?
German Chocolate Cake is unique because it has a sweet coconut and pecan frosting, giving it a distinct flavor that regular chocolate cake does not have.

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
You can, but it will change the flavor profile. Sweetened coconut adds more sweetness and texture to the cake.

Is there a gluten-free version of German Chocolate Cake?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

German Chocolate Cake

• Author: arianarecipes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: German
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and delicious German Chocolate Cake featuring layers of moist chocolate cake with sweet coconut and crunchy pecans.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine the flour, cocoa, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually stir in the boiling water until well combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, combine the butter, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat until melted and bubbly.
8. Stir in the coconut and pecans. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before spreading between the cooled cake layers and on top.

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Notes

Serve at room temperature or chilled. Pairs well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 40g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg