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A German chocolate cake with a slice removed, showcasing its rich layers and decadent frosting.

German Chocolate Cake


  • Author: Chef Daniel
  • Total Time: 1 hour + 1 hour Chill time

Description

This homemade German Chocolate Cake is a rich, moist dessert with a mild chocolate flavor, topped with a decadent coconut-pecan frosting. Perfect for special occasions, this classic recipe will impress every guest!


Ingredients

Scale

  • For the Cake:
    • 1¾ cups (219g) all-purpose flour
    • ¾ cup (62g) unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
    • 2 teaspoons baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 2 teaspoons optional espresso powder
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1 cup buttermilk
    • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
    • 4 ounces German baking chocolate, melted
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • ½ teaspoon salt
  • For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
    • 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
    • 1 can (12 oz; 354ml) evaporated milk
    • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
    • 3 large egg yolks
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
    • 1 cup (125g) chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cake Pans:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round pans with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and optional espresso powder.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat sugar and eggs until light. Add buttermilk, melted butter, melted chocolate, and vanilla. Mix well.
  4. Combine and Bake:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 28–35 minutes. Let cool completely.
  5. Prepare Frosting:
    • Heat brown sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly for 12 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat, then mix in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Cool to room temperature.
  6. Assemble the Cake:
    • Layer cake rounds with frosting between each layer and on top. Spread remaining frosting around the sides.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 28-35 minutes
  • Category: Cakes
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: German Chocolate Cake