German Chocolate Cake Recipe With Classic Coconut Pecan Frosting

Name: German Chocolate Cake
Prep time: PT-488334H8M8S
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 cups granulated sugar; – 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; – 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; – 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; – 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; – 1 teaspoon salt; – 2 large eggs; – 1 cup buttermilk; – 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil; – 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; – 1 cup boiling water; – 1/2 cup light brown sugar; – 1/2 cup granulated sugar; – 1/2 cup butter; – 3 large egg yolks; – 3/4 cup evaporated milk; – 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; – 1 cup chopped pecans; – 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; – 1/2 cup butter; – 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; – 3 cups powdered sugar; – 1/3 cup milk; – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Cake

This recipe for German chocolate cake stands out because it’s simple to make and delivers a delicious dessert that anyone can enjoy. Imagine layers of fluffy chocolate cake topped with that classic coconut pecan frosting it’s a treat that brings back fond memories of family gatherings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, the straightforward steps make it easy to whip up for any occasion. For more insights on how chocolate can enhance your recipes, check out the health benefits of chocolate.

One big plus is how versatile this cake is for different diets, from vegan tweaks to gluten-free options, so everyone at the table can join in. The mix of rich chocolate and nutty frosting creates a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting, making it a hit for holidays or everyday treats. Plus, it’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like cocoa that add a healthy twist without giving up taste.

The ease of preparation means you can have a homemade cake ready in about an hour, perfect for busy schedules. If you’re curious about similar desserts, try this triple chocolate cake variation on our site for even more chocolatey fun. Overall, this German chocolate cake is not just a recipe it’s a way to create joyful moments in the kitchen.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Cake
2. Essential Ingredients for German Chocolate Cake
3. How to Prepare the Perfect German Chocolate Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your German Chocolate Cake
5. Mastering German Chocolate Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store German Chocolate Cake: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About German Chocolate Cake
8. German Chocolate Cake

Essential Ingredients for German Chocolate Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this German chocolate cake come out just right, and I’ve listed them out clearly below. This section pulls together all the items you’ll need based on the recipe details, making it simple to follow along. Remember, using precise measurements helps ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

For the Cake

2 cups granulated sugar
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Coconut Frosting

1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter
3 large egg yolks
3/4 cup evaporated milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

For the Chocolate Frosting

1/2 cup butter
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This list covers everything required for the full recipe, including options for dietary swaps like plant-based milk or gluten-free flour. Don’t skip any item these combine to give the cake its signature rich taste and texture.

How to Prepare the Perfect German Chocolate Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s dive into baking this German chocolate cake, starting with the basics to make it fun and straightforward. First, mix the dry ingredients in one bowl: that’s 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. In another bowl, combine 2 large eggs, 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, then blend it all together.

Next, add the wet mixture to the dry one and stir in 1 cup boiling water to create the batter don’t worry if it’s a bit thin, that’s normal. Pour the batter into two greased 8- or 9-inch round pans and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 35 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go.

While the cake cools, make the coconut frosting by combining 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup butter, 3 large egg yolks, and 3/4 cup evaporated milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until it thickens, then remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1 cup chopped pecans, and 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut. For the chocolate frosting, melt 1/2 cup butter, mix in 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, add 3 cups powdered sugar and 1/3 cup milk gradually until spreadable, and finish with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

To put it all together, place one cake layer on a plate, spread with chocolate frosting and half the coconut frosting. Add the second layer, cover with more chocolate frosting, and top with the remaining coconut frosting. The whole process takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bakes for 25 to 35 minutes, so plan for around 1 hour and 15 minutes total. For another twist on frosting, you might enjoy our peanut butter frosting recipe that’s perfect for experimenting.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your German Chocolate Cake

Adapting this German chocolate cake for different needs is easy and keeps the fun in baking. For protein and main component alternatives, swap eggs with flaxseed eggs or use plant-based butter to make it vegan while keeping that rich texture.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

For vegan diets, replace eggs with flaxseed eggs or commercial egg replacers and use plant-based butter alternatives. For gluten-free versions, swap traditional flour with certified gluten-free blends to keep the cake light and airy.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor, or use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk instead of dairy. For sauces, try sugar-free syrups or natural sweeteners to cut down on sugar, and swap pecans with seasonal nuts or seeds for allergies.

Mastering German Chocolate Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations

Tips	Benefits
Temper the chocolate properly	Enhances texture and prevents graininess
Use precise oven temperature	Ensures even baking and fluffy layers
Add espresso powder	Intensifies chocolate flavor

Pro techniques like tempering chocolate and checking oven temps make a big difference in your German chocolate cake. For flavor twists, try espresso powder to boost the chocolate notes or orange zest for a fresh kick. When presenting, layer the frosting neatly and top with toasted coconut or pecans for a nice look.

You can also bake the layers ahead and freeze them for quick meals, which saves time on busy days. These variations keep the classic taste while letting you get creative in the kitchen.

How to Store German Chocolate Cake: Best Practices

Keeping your German chocolate cake fresh is simple with the right steps. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to lock in moisture. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm slices in the microwave or oven. This method helps avoid waste and makes meal prep easier, so you can enjoy a slice whenever you like.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About German Chocolate Cake

What makes German chocolate cake different from other chocolate cakes?

German chocolate cake is unique because it features a light, sweet chocolate-flavored cake layered and topped with a rich coconut-pecan frosting. Unlike other chocolate cakes that commonly use a heavy chocolate ganache or buttercream, this cake’s signature frosting combines shredded coconut and chopped pecans in a caramel-like mixture, providing a distinct texture and flavor. Although called “German,” the cake actually originated in the United States, named after Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate brand used in the original recipe.

Can I make German chocolate cake without pecans or coconut?

Yes, you can adjust the traditional coconut-pecan frosting if you have allergies or preferences. For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and increase the coconut slightly, or substitute with chopped walnuts if desired. If you don’t like coconut, try using a chocolate buttercream or caramel frosting instead. Keep in mind that changing the frosting will alter the classic texture and flavor but can still result in a delicious cake tailored to your taste.

How do I store German chocolate cake to keep it fresh?

German chocolate cake should be stored in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness. Because the frosting contains dairy and eggs, refrigeration is recommended if the cake is not eaten within a day or two. Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for the best taste and texture. If you need to store it longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to make the coconut pecan frosting for German chocolate cake?

The coconut pecan frosting is traditionally made by cooking egg yolks, evaporated milk, sugar, and butter together until thickened, then stirring in shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Cooking the mixture helps create a creamy, caramel-like texture that sets on the cake layers. Be sure to stir constantly while cooking to avoid curdling, and cool the frosting before spreading to prevent melting the cake layers.

Is German chocolate cake suitable for special occasions and celebrations?

Absolutely. German chocolate cake’s rich flavor and unique frosting make it a popular choice for birthdays, holidays, and other celebrations. Its layered design allows for decorative frosting applications, while the combination of chocolate cake and coconut-pecan frosting offers something different from standard chocolate or vanilla cakes. Plus, it pairs well with coffee or fresh berries, making it a festive dessert for many occasions.

German Chocolate Cake Recipe with Classic Coconut Pecan Frosting