German chocalate cake
German chocolate cake is a rich and indulgent layered chocolate cake featuring moist chocolate cake layers and a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. Known for its unique texture and distinctive flavor from German’s sweet baking chocolate, this classic dessert is perfect for celebrations or comforting treats. Its harmonious blend of chocolate, coconut, and toasted pecans makes every bite a delightful experience.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains nuts and dairy
For the Chocolate Cake
- 4 oz German’s sweet baking chocolate
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 ½ cups shredded coconut
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- Prepare the Chocolate Batter: Melt the German’s sweet baking chocolate with butter until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients, then beat in the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract just until smooth and creamy.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing.
- Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, brown sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color. Remove from heat and fold in shredded coconut and toasted pecans. Let the frosting cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread a generous layer of frosting between the two cake layers. Use the remaining frosting to coat the top and sides evenly, creating the cake’s characteristic look and flavor.
Notes
- Use only German’s sweet baking chocolate for authentic flavor.
- Weigh batter to evenly divide layers for balanced cakes.
- Lightly toast pecans to enhance crunch without overpowering.
- Do not overmix batter to keep cake tender and avoid density.
- Ensure cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: German chocolate cake, coconut pecan frosting, layered cake, chocolate dessert, classic cake