German Chocolate Cake

Photo of author
Author: Olivia
Published:
Delicious slice of German Chocolate Cake with coconut pecan frosting.

introduction

German Chocolate Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that delights everyone with its chocolate flavor and creamy frosting. This cake has layers of moist chocolate cake paired with a delightful coconut and pecan frosting. If you’re looking for a special dessert for an occasion, this cake is a fantastic choice. It’s also perfect for any chocolate lover! You might enjoy helpful tips and variations to complement this tasty cake; for example, consider trying chocolate chip cheesecake bars for a different dessert option.

German Chocolate Cake

why make this recipe

Making German Chocolate Cake is a rewarding experience. Not only does it look impressive, but the combination of flavors makes it irresistible. Guests will appreciate your effort, and it brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. Plus, it’s a fun project to bake with friends or family.

how to make German Chocolate Cake

Creating this German Chocolate Cake is simple and involves a few essential steps. First, gather all your ingredients for a smooth baking process.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 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, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin.
  4. Pour evenly into the prepared cake pans.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool.
  6. For the frosting, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, butter, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
  8. Once the cake is cooled, frost the top of one layer, stack with the second layer, and repeat. Frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

how to serve German Chocolate Cake

To serve German Chocolate Cake, slice the layers evenly and place them on dessert plates. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra richness. It also pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

how to store German Chocolate Cake

Store any leftover German Chocolate Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

tips to make German Chocolate Cake

  1. Sifting Ingredients: Always sift your dry ingredients for a lighter texture.
  2. Boiling Water: Adding boiling water helps create a moist, better-textured cake.
  3. Let it Cool: Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.

variation

For a fun twist, try adding different nuts like walnuts or using dark chocolate cocoa. You can also make a simple chocolate ganache to drizzle instead of the traditional frosting for a more decadent touch.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular cocoa powder?
    Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder, but Dutch-processed cocoa will yield a richer flavor.

  2. Why is it called German Chocolate Cake?
    It is named after Samuel German, who developed a type of dark-baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852.

  3. Can I freeze German Chocolate Cake?
    Yes, you can freeze the cake layers individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. Just thaw before serving.

Print
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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

Description

A rich and decadent dessert with layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy coconut-pecan frosting.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Combine the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin.
  4. Pour evenly into the prepared cake pans.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool.
  6. For the frosting, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, butter, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
  8. Once the cake is cooled, frost the top of one layer, stack with the second layer, and repeat. Frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

Notes

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 60g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Ariana’s Delicious Moments
Hi, I’m Ariana!

A self-taught home cook who loves creating everyday recipes that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly. This blog is where I share the meals I actually make from quick weeknight dinners to sweet weekend treats. Let’s cook together!

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