Homestyle German Chocolate Cake
This German Chocolate Cake is a stunning dessert centerpiece. It features tender, chocolatey layers complemented by a rich, sticky coconut-pecan frosting. A time-honored favorite, it perfectly balances deep chocolate flavor with the sweet, nutty caramel notes in each bite.
German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa | ¾ cup |
| Baking soda | 2 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Hot water or coffee | 1 cup |
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Evaporated milk | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Egg yolks | 3 large |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Sweetened shredded coconut | 1 ½ cups |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
Instructions
To Make the Cake:
- Prepare the Oven & Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. - Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until the batter is smooth and well-combined. - Add Hot Liquid
Gradually stir in the hot water (or coffee for a deeper chocolate taste). The batter will be thin—this is expected. - Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the three pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. - Cool
Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting.
To Make the Frosting:
- Cook the Custard Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. - Thicken the Mixture
Stir constantly for 10–12 minutes, or until it thickens into a custard that coats the back of a spoon. - Finish the Frosting
Remove from heat. Add vanilla extract, coconut, and chopped pecans. Let it cool to room temperature—it will continue to thicken.
To Assemble:
- First Layer
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or stand. Spread one-third of the frosting over the top. - Add More Layers
Add the second cake layer and top with another third of the frosting. Repeat with the final layer and remaining frosting. - Optional Decoration
Traditionally, the sides of a German chocolate cake are left unfrosted, showing off the cake layers. However, feel free to frost the sides or cover them with chocolate ganache for a polished finish.
Savor every bite of this classic German Chocolate Cake—ideal for celebrations or whenever you’re in the mood for something richly satisfying.
