Indulging in a slice of German chocolate cake is like giving your taste buds a vacation to a chocolate paradise, where rich cocoa mingles with sweet coconut and toasted pecans. Imagine that first bite: the moist layers melt in your mouth, each forkful bursting with flavors that dance on your palate while the aroma of freshly baked chocolate wafts through the air, inviting you back for more.
This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that evokes memories of celebrations and family gatherings. I remember the first time I made this decadent treat for my friend’s birthday. The look on her face—pure bliss—was worth every second spent in the kitchen. Whether celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself on a Tuesday, German chocolate cake never disappoints.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This heavenly German chocolate cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of any skill level
- The rich flavor profile combines deep chocolate with nutty coconut, creating an irresistible taste sensation
- Visually stunning, this cake will surely impress at any gathering or special occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round or during festive celebrations
I still chuckle when I think about how my friends couldn’t stop raving about this cake—it felt like an Olympic event as they raced to finish their slices!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cake and provides structure; sift it for lightness.
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Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed adds nice depth.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly; you can adjust based on your sweetness preference.
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Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps your cake rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
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Baking Soda: It balances the acidity of cocoa while adding fluffiness; always check expiration dates!
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Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors in your cake; don’t skip this step.
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Eggs: They bind everything together; room temperature eggs blend more easily into the batter.
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Milk: Adds moisture and richness; whole milk or buttermilk work wonders here.
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Vegetable Oil: Keeps your cake moist and tender; feel free to substitute with melted butter if desired.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the flavor profile; avoid imitation vanilla for best results.
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Coconut Flakes (sweetened): These add texture and sweetness to the frosting; use shredded or flaked as you prefer.
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Pecans (chopped): Toast them lightly for a deeper flavor before mixing into the frosting; they add an excellent crunch.
- German chocolate cake is a rich delight, known for its layers of chocolate and coconut pecan frosting
- Its name actually comes from an Englishman, Sam German, who created a dark-baking chocolate in 1852
- This cake is perfect for special occasions or just because you deserve a treat!
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter that rises beautifully
- Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F for even baking
- Lastly, let the layers cool completely before frosting to avoid melting
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water mixed with 4 oz bittersweet chocolate (chopped)
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round 9-inch baking pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix boiling water with chopped chocolate until smooth; cool slightly.
- Combine eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Blend in the cooled chocolate mixture.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined.
- Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- For the frosting, cook evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, coconut flakes, and pecans in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened (about 10 minutes). Let cool before frosting the cake layers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat and Prepare Your Pans: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round 9-inch baking pans so that your lovely layers slide out effortlessly.
Create Your Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of dry ingredients throughout your batter.
Melt Your Chocolate: In a separate bowl, mix boiling water with chopped bittersweet chocolate until smooth. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the rest of your wet ingredients.
Add Wet Ingredients: Combine eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract into a mixing bowl. Slowly blend in the cooled chocolate mixture until everything is well combined and luscious.
Bake Those Layers: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for 10 minutes before flipping onto wire racks.
Create Your Frosting: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, coconut flakes, and chopped pecans. Cook until thickened—about 10 minutes—and let cool before frosting your cake layers generously.
Enjoy baking this delightful German chocolate cake that brings joy not only through its incredible taste but also by creating cherished memories!
You Must Know
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake layers first while preparing the frosting. This way, everything cools down for easy assembly and decorating.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts, or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate if you want it fresh longer.
Chef's Helpful Tips
One time, I brought this German chocolate cake to a family gathering, and it disappeared faster than my cousin’s famous dance moves. Everyone raved about how moist and flavorful it was!
FAQ
What makes German chocolate cake different from regular chocolate cake?
German chocolate cake features a unique coconut pecan frosting that sets it apart from traditional recipes.
Can I use other nuts in my German chocolate cake?
Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer different flavors and textures.
How do I prevent my cake layers from sticking?
Ensure proper greasing of your pans with butter or baking spray and use parchment paper as an extra layer of protection.
German Chocolate Cake
Description
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of German chocolate cake—a delightful treat that combines moist chocolate layers with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. This cake is perfect for any occasion, delivering an unforgettable experience that brings smiles and sweet memories. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this easy-to-make recipe will impress family and friends alike.
