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Homemade German Chocolate Cake with coconut and pecan frosting on a plate.

German Chocolate Cake

A rich and moist cake layered with sweet coconut-pecan frosting, perfect for celebrations or special treats.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 2 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can be substituted with regular milk.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot coffee or hot water Hot coffee is preferred for deeper flavor.
Frosting Ingredients
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for frosting)
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
Optional Chocolate Frosting Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 3-4 tbsp milk Add as needed for consistency.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
  4. Slowly stir in the hot coffee or hot water until the batter is fully combined; it will be thin.
  5. Divide batter evenly between cake pans and bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting Preparation
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook while stirring continuously for 10 to 12 minutes until thickened.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Allow to cool until spreadable.
Assembly
  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the coconut-pecan frosting on top.
  2. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining frosting on top. If desired, frost the sides with optional chocolate frosting.
  3. Slice and serve!

Notes

For best results, ensure ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing. Experiment with frostings by adding more nuts or coconut for variation. Consider a chocolate ganache for extra chocolatey flavor.