Here’s a detailed German Chocolate Cake recipe—the classic dessert with moist chocolate layers and a rich coconut-pecan frosting.
Ingredients
For the Cake (3 layers)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 oz (115 g) German sweet chocolate, melted and cooled slightly
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Make the Cake Batter
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg yolks one at a time, then add vanilla.
- Stir in melted German chocolate.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to the chocolate mixture, starting and ending with flour.
3. Whip Egg Whites
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold into the batter for a lighter texture.
4. Bake
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
- Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool 10 minutes in pans, then transfer to wire racks.
5. Make the Frosting
- In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (~10 min).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
- Let cool slightly before spreading.
6. Assemble the Cake
- Spread frosting between layers and on top.
- Optionally leave sides unfrosted for a rustic look.
💡 Tips
- Use high-quality German sweet chocolate for authentic flavor.
- Chill slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Serve with coffee or milk for the ultimate indulgence.
I can also provide a one-bowl, quicker German chocolate cake recipe that’s just as moist and rich but easier for weeknight baking.
Do you want me to provide that version?
