German Chocolate Cake Recipe

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German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Introduction

German Chocolate Cake is a rich, decadent dessert known for its signature coconut-pecan frosting. Despite its name, the cake is not German but rather an American creation. It gets its name from Samuel German, an English-American baker who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for the Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. The cake gained widespread popularity in the 1950s when a recipe using German’s Sweet Chocolate was published in a Texas newspaper. Since then, it has become a beloved classic, perfect for celebrations and gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 4 ounces German’s Sweet Chocolate, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

  • 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
  • 5 large egg yolks
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 2 cups shredded coconut

For the Chocolate Frosting (Optional, for sides and top):

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Stir in the melted German chocolate and vanilla extract.
  6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  7. Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans.

Step 2: Baking the Cake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Making the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, egg yolks, sugar, and butter.
  2. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10–12 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, pecans, and shredded coconut.
  4. Allow the frosting to cool completely before using.

Step 4: Making the Chocolate Frosting (Optional)

  1. In a bowl, beat butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined.
  3. Slowly add heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Assembling the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of coconut-pecan frosting over the top.
  2. Repeat with the second and third layers.
  3. If using chocolate frosting, spread it around the sides and top of the cake.
  4. Decorate with extra pecans or coconut if desired.

History of German Chocolate Cake

This cake was first introduced to the public in 1957 when a recipe appeared in the Dallas Morning News. The recipe was submitted by a Texas homemaker and used Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, which led to the cake’s misleading name. Since then, it has remained a beloved dessert across the United States, cherished for its rich, nutty, and coconut-infused flavors.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Cake is a true showstopper, blending deep chocolate flavors with a caramel-like coconut-pecan topping. Whether made for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a special treat, it never fails to impress. If you’re a chocolate lover, this is a must-try dessert!

Who Loves German Chocolate Cake?

  • Chocolate Lovers – The rich, deep flavor of the chocolate cake makes this a dream dessert.
  • Coconut Enthusiasts – The signature frosting delivers a chewy, sweet coconut punch.
  • Nostalgic Bakers – Many have fond memories of their parents or grandparents making this cake.
  • Special Occasion Hosts – Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and dinner parties.

Would you like tips on making it even better?

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