Introduction

German Chocolate Cake is an iconic dessert that combines a rich, moist chocolate cake with a decadent coconut-pecan frosting. The chocolate layers are tender and flavorful, while the topping is a luxurious mixture of sweetened coconut, toasted pecans, and a creamy caramel-like base that melts in your mouth. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion where a show-stopping dessert is desired.

Why i love this recipe

I love this recipe because it hits the perfect balance between deep chocolate flavor and a sweet, nutty frosting. The texture contrast between the soft, fluffy cake and the chewy, nutty topping makes every bite interesting and indulgent. It’s a dessert that feels both comforting and luxurious, making it a favorite for celebrations.

This is a must try dish

This is a must-try cake because it’s a true classic that delights every chocolate lover. The combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans is unique, irresistible, and unforgettable. While it looks impressive, it’s surprisingly approachable for home bakers and will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it.

Details

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes per cake layer
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 12–14 slices
• Calories: ~480 kcal per slice
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) hot water

For the Coconut Pecan Frosting:

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) evaporated milk
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter
• 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Cooking Directions

Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Stir in hot water until fully incorporated; batter will be thin.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Coconut Pecan Frosting:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and egg yolks.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency (about 10–12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let cool slightly before frosting the cake.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep Cake Pans: Grease and line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Mix until smooth, then stir in hot water carefully.
5. Bake Cakes: Divide batter evenly and bake 30–35 minutes. Check doneness with toothpick.
6. Cool Cakes: Let cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
7. Prepare Frosting: Cook sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and egg yolks until thickened.
8. Add Coconut and Pecans: Stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla; cool slightly.
9. Frost Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, add second layer, then frost top and sides.

How to Serve

• Serve slices at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Garnish with extra toasted coconut or pecans for presentation.
• Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or a luxurious weekend dessert.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated coconut if you prefer a more natural texture.
• Make sure the frosting is slightly cooled before spreading to prevent it from sliding off.
• Avoid overbaking the cake; it should remain moist and tender.
• Toast pecans lightly for extra flavor before adding to frosting.

Variations

1. Single-Layer Cake: Bake in a single 9×13-inch pan; adjust baking time to 35–40 minutes.
2. Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Add a dark chocolate ganache drizzle on top of frosting for extra decadence.
3. Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and plant-based milk; substitute vegan butter for frosting.
4. Mini Cakes or Cupcakes: Bake in muffin tins; adjust baking time to 20–25 minutes.
5. Nut-Free Version: Omit pecans and increase coconut slightly.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Store in fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Unfrosted layers can be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before frosting.
• Frosting Storage: Coconut pecan frosting can be stored in refrigerator for 5 days; gently rewarm to spread.

Special Equipment Needed

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Wire cooling rack
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan for frosting
• Electric mixer (hand or stand)
• Spatula for spreading frosting

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A1: Yes, the cake layers can be baked a day or two in advance and stored tightly wrapped. Frost the day of serving for best results.

Q2: Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
A2: No, evaporated milk is needed for proper consistency; condensed milk is too sweet and thick.

Q3: Can I make cupcakes instead?
A3: Yes, divide batter into muffin tins and bake 20–25 minutes. Frost individually with coconut-pecan frosting.

Q4: Can I use a boxed chocolate cake mix?
A4: Yes, but homemade provides richer flavor; you can follow the frosting recipe as is.

Q5: How do I prevent the frosting from sliding off the cake?
A5: Let cakes cool completely and slightly cool the frosting before spreading to ensure it adheres well.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Cake with Coconut Pecan Frosting is a classic dessert that combines rich chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans in one irresistible package. Its moist, tender layers paired with a luscious frosting make it perfect for special occasions or indulgent weekends. With easy variations and storage tips, this cake is both versatile and timeless, a recipe that will impress family, friends, and guests every time.