There’s nothing quite like the smell of a freshly baked German Chocolate Cake wafting through the house, is there? The rich, chocolatey aroma mingles with sweet coconut and crunchy pecans, making your mouth water as you anticipate that first bite. This cake is more than just dessert; it’s an experience that transports you straight to a warm kitchen filled with laughter and joy. For more inspiration, check out this more delicious dessert recipes recipe.
I remember the first time I made a German Chocolate Cake for my best friend’s birthday. It was chaotic; flour everywhere, eggs cracking like fireworks, and me trying not to sample the frosting too early. But when I pulled that glorious cake out of the oven, all of the pandemonium faded away. That delightful cake was the highlight of our celebration, and I’ve been making it ever since!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This German Chocolate Cake is surprisingly easy to whip up even for beginner bakers!
- Its flavor profile features a rich chocolate base paired with a sweet coconut-pecan frosting
- Visually, it’s stunning with its layers and toppings that demand attention at any gathering
- Perfect for birthdays or cozy family dinners, this cake will impress everyone!
One time, I brought this cake to work, and my coworkers practically fought over the last slice. It was a glorious moment!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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- All-Purpose Flour: Using high-quality flour ensures a light texture in your cake.
- Cocoa Powder: Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor.
- Baking Soda: Fresh baking soda gives your cake that perfect rise.
- Granulated Sugar: Use fine granulated sugar for even sweetness throughout.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor.
- Eggs: Choose large eggs for optimal binding and structure.
- Buttermilk: Rich buttermilk enhances moisture and flavor in your cake layers.
- Unsalted Butter: Always use unsalted butter to control your cake’s saltiness.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the overall taste of your cake.
- Coconut Flakes: Sweetened coconut flakes create that signature German chocolate texture.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and richness to the frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for creating that smooth frosting texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Baking Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter or nonstick spray and line them with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. This creates a uniform dry mix.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the mixed sugars until light and fluffy—around 3-5 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in eggs one at a time followed by buttermilk and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth; you want a rich batter with no lumps!
Create Cake Layers: Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Stop when just combined to keep the batter airy.
Bake Your Cakes: Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool before frosting.
Make Coconut-Pecan Frosting: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, egg yolks, butter, and brown sugar until thickened—about 10 minutes. Stir in coconut flakes and pecans.
Once you’ve baked these delightful layers and prepared your coconut-pecan frosting, it’s time to assemble!
Assembling Your Masterpiece: Place one layer flat side up on a plate or stand. Spread half of your frosting on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides generously; let it shine!
At last! Your German Chocolate Cake is ready to be devoured—a true labor of love that’s worth every crumb! Enjoy every bite as friends gather around with forks at the ready!
You Must Know
- This delightful German Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate
- The rich layers, sweet coconut-pecan frosting, and chocolatey goodness make it a showstopper at any gathering
- Its luscious aroma will have everyone gathering around the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the cake layers to cool while you whip up the frosting. This sequence ensures a seamless assembly without melting your frosting into a gooey mess.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor, or swap in dark chocolate for an even richer taste. Each tweak can elevate your cake to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to reheat, a quick zap in the microwave for 10 seconds will do wonders.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your German Chocolate Cake turns out perfect, remember to use room temperature ingredients for better mixing
- Grease your pans with cocoa powder instead of flour for easy release and a richer flavor
- Lastly, don’t skip cooling the layers completely before frosting; this avoids melting!
Sometimes, when I bake this cake, my kids declare it as their official birthday cake—even if it’s not their birthday!
FAQ
What makes German Chocolate Cake different from regular chocolate cake?
German Chocolate Cake includes sweetened coconut and pecans in its frosting, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the layers in advance and freeze them for up to three months before frosting.
What is the best way to frost German Chocolate Cake?
Use a generous amount of frosting between layers and on top, allowing some to drip down the sides for that beautiful effect.
German Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
German Chocolate Cake is a luscious, layered dessert that brings together rich chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans. Its delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making it the perfect centerpiece for birthdays or family gatherings. This cake is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike. With each slice, you’ll experience a burst of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup toasted pecans
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the sugars until fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by buttermilk and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until just blended.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, egg yolks, butter, and brown sugar; cook until thickened (about 10 minutes). Stir in coconut flakes and pecans.
- Once cakes are cool, spread half of the frosting between layers and top with remaining frosting.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg