GERMAN CHOCOLATE CAKE

There’s something truly special about a homemade German Chocolate Cake. With its rich layers of chocolate cake, topped with an exquisite coconut pecan frosting and a smooth chocolate frosting, this cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Growing up in a family of seven, this cake was a birthday staple. Being a twin had its perks, too—my mom would bake both my sister’s favorite, the German Chocolate Cake, and my carrot cake. A slice of each was the perfect birthday treat!

Traditionally, German Chocolate Cake is not actually from Germany. The name can be misleading, as it’s named after an American chocolatier named Samuel German. Typically, it features a lighter, mildly chocolate-flavored cake, but our family prefers an intense chocolate experience. We love our version with chocolate frosting enveloping the cake, and coconut pecan frosting nestled between layers and on top. If you’re a chocolate aficionado, this cake is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the nutty and sweet coconut pecan frosting. It’s perfect for any celebration, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family with its stunning presentation and delectable taste.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Saucepan
• 9-inch square pans or 8-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack
• Spatula

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 4 ounces sweet cooking German chocolate
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 1/2 cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4 egg whites, stiffly beaten

Coconut Pecan Frosting

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup evaporated milk (12 oz. can)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease two 9-inch square pans or three 8-inch round pans.
2. Pour boiling water over the chocolate in a bowl, stirring until it melts. Allow to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the sugar and butter together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla.
4. Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt, alternating with the buttermilk. Beat until the batter is smooth. Gently fold in the stiffly beaten egg whites.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake square pans for 40-45 minutes or round pans for 35-40 minutes. Test with a toothpick to ensure they are done. Cool completely before frosting.
6. For the Coconut Pecan Frosting: In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, milk, vanilla, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in coconut and pecans. Beat until it reaches a spreading consistency. Allow to cool and thicken before icing the cake.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chocolate mixture is completely cooled before adding it to the batter.
• Fold the egg whites gently to keep the batter light and airy.
• Let the frosting cool sufficiently so it’s easy to spread without running off the cake.

Additional Tips and Variations

For an extra touch of decadence, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some extra toasted coconut on top for added texture and flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them. Just make sure to thaw them completely before frosting.

Can I substitute the German chocolate with regular chocolate? While you can use dark chocolate, the flavor and sweetness may differ slightly from the traditional German chocolate.

How should I store leftover cake? Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

This German Chocolate Cake is a delightful treat that will surely become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us in the comments below. Happy baking!