The Best German Chocolate Cake Recipe: Sweet Decadence Awaits

Sweet aromas of decadent German chocolate cake waft through kitchens, promising pure indulgence.

Layers of rich chocolate promise a sensational dessert experience waiting to happen.

Coconut and pecans create magical textures that complement deep cocoa notes.

Creamy frosting promises to melt hearts with its luxurious smoothness.

This classic southern treat brings comfort and joy to every slice.

Bakers passionate about creating memorable desserts will find magic in every carefully measured ingredient.

You can transform simple components into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece that delights everyone at the table.

Key Ingredients in German Chocolate Cake

• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender cake texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure to the cake.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Baking Soda: Assists in cake leavening and browning.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor.

• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides depth of flavor.
• Boiling Water: Helps activate ingredients and create a smooth batter.

• Evaporated Milk, Sugar, Egg Yolks, Butter, Vanilla Extract: Create a creamy, caramel-like frosting base.
• Coconut, Pecans: Add texture and traditional German chocolate cake flavor.

Stepwise Guide to German Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Warming Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350F (175C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by generously coating them with grease and a light dusting of flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mixing the Chocolate Magic

• Eggs
• Milk
• Vegetable oil
• Vanilla extract

Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes until completely blended.

Gently stir in boiling water to create a silky-smooth batter.

Step 3: Baking to Perfection

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared pans, dividing it evenly.

Slide the pans into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Let the cakes rest in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Creating the Luscious Coconut Frosting

• Evaporated milk
• Sugar
• Egg yolks
• Butter
• Vanilla extract

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 12 minutes).

• Shredded coconut
• Chopped pecans

Allow the frosting to cool until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assembling Your Masterpiece

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate.

Spread a generous layer of the coconut-pecan frosting. Carefully position the second cake layer on top.

Frost the entire cake, covering the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Slice and serve your homemade German Chocolate Cake!

Helpful Hints for German Chocolate Cake

• Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version of this decadent cake.
• Enhance the chocolate flavor by using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa for a richer taste.
• Toast pecans before adding to the frosting to bring out their nutty depth and add extra crunch.
• Let cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure clean, smooth layers.
• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and a more consistent cake texture.

Creative Takes on German Chocolate Cake

• Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cake: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegan Chocolate Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, swap butter for coconut oil, and replace evaporated milk with coconut cream.
• Nutless Wonder: Eliminate pecans from frosting and replace with toasted sunflower seeds or chopped pumpkin seeds for similar crunch and texture.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, incorporate sugar-free chocolate, and reduce overall sweetness while maintaining rich chocolate flavor.

Great Pairings for German Chocolate Cake

• Celebration Centerpiece: Transform this decadent German chocolate cake into a stunning party showstopper by adding chocolate shavings and extra toasted pecans around the edges for a professional bakery look.
• Rustic Dessert Buffet: Create an elegant dessert display by cutting the cake into smaller squares, arranging them on a wooden board with fresh berries and mint leaves for a gorgeous presentation.
• Weekend Brunch Star: Serve slices alongside vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce to elevate this classic cake into a luxurious weekend morning treat that will impress breakfast guests.
• Gifting Delight: Wrap individual cake slices in parchment paper with a decorative ribbon, perfect for sharing with friends or bringing as a thoughtful homemade dessert to a gathering.

FAQs

• What is the origin of German Chocolate Cake?

Despite its name, the cake originated in the United States and was named after Samuel German, an employee of Baker’s Chocolate Company who created a specific type of dark baking chocolate in 1852.

• Why does the recipe use boiling water in the cake batter?

Boiling water helps to bloom the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor and creating a more moist and tender cake texture.

• Can I make this cake without coconut and pecans?

While these ingredients are traditional in the frosting, you can omit or substitute them based on personal preference or dietary restrictions, though it will slightly alter the classic German Chocolate Cake taste.

What Makes German Chocolate Cake Stand Out

• Craft a Decadent Dessert: Indulge in a rich, chocolatey masterpiece that transforms an ordinary occasion into a special celebration with its luxurious layers and dreamy coconut-pecan frosting.
• Bake with Minimal Fuss: Simple mixing technique and straightforward ingredients make this cake accessible for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring a delightful result without complicated steps.
• Crowd-Pleasing Showstopper: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend treats, this classic German chocolate cake delivers a nostalgic flavor that brings smiles and creates memorable moments around the table.
• No-Stress Preparation: One-bowl mixing method and basic pantry ingredients mean you can create this impressive dessert without spending hours in the kitchen or hunting for rare components.

Best German Chocolate Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Rich German chocolate cake embodies a luxurious dessert blending deep cocoa notes with coconut-pecan frosting. Bakers can create this classic American treat with careful layering and precise chocolate selection.

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Ingredients

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Cake Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Frosting Ingredients:

• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by lightly greasing and dusting with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Create the chocolate base by combining dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, whisking flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well integrated.
3. Incorporate wet ingredients into the dry mixture, adding eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly using an electric mixer for approximately 2 minutes until smooth and fully blended.
4. Gently fold boiling water into the batter, which will create a uniquely moist texture and enhance the chocolate flavor.
5. Distribute the batter evenly between prepared cake pans, ensuring consistent depth for uniform baking.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean with no raw batter.
7. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to wire cooling racks to reach room temperature.
8. Prepare the signature coconut-pecan frosting by combining evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat.
9. Continuously stir the frosting mixture for approximately 12 minutes until it thickens to a rich, spreadable consistency.
10. Remove frosting from heat, then fold in shredded coconut and chopped pecans, allowing mixture to cool and set.
11. Assemble the cake by placing the first layer on a serving plate, spreading a generous layer of frosting.
12. Position the second cake layer on top and completely cover the top and sides with remaining frosting, creating a smooth, even finish.

Notes

• Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, even mixing and consistent cake texture.
• Sift dry ingredients to eliminate lumps and create a lighter, more delicate cake crumb.
• For extra moisture, brush cake layers with simple syrup before frosting to enhance flavor and prevent dryness.
• Replace pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a personalized twist, or omit nuts entirely for nut-free diets.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 378 kcal
• Sugar: 36 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg