Introduction
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of our German Chocolate Cake recipe. This classic dessert features layers of moist chocolate cake filled and topped with a creamy coconut-pecan frosting. Whether served as a centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions, this beloved cake is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup hot water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot water, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
2. Baking the Cake
- Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
3. Making the Coconut-Pecan Frosting
- In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and butter over medium heat.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Let the frosting cool to room temperature before using.
4. Assembling the Cake
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of the coconut-pecan frosting over the top.
- Repeat with the remaining cake layers, stacking them on top of each other and frosting between each layer.
- Use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake.
5. Serving Up Sweetness
- Slice and serve the German Chocolate Cake at room temperature or chilled, garnished with additional chopped pecans if desired.
Dive into Sweet Bliss
Get ready to dive into the sweet bliss of our German Chocolate Cake. With its moist chocolate cake layers and creamy coconut-pecan frosting, this classic dessert is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of this beloved cake.