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German Chocolate Cake

German Chocolate Cake
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German Chocolate Cake is a rich and creamy dessert featuring moist chocolate layers paired with a signature coconut-pecan frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any special occasion, this classic cake blends deep chocolate flavor with a luscious, textured frosting that melts in your mouth. Easy to follow and versatile, it delivers a stunning cake that is both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 cup high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat/oat flour for variation)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup evaporated milk (or coconut milk for vegan alternative)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Pans and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper for easy removal. Measure all ingredients accurately to ensure consistent results and proper rise.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to remove lumps and evenly distribute the leavening agents.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air for a tender crumb.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
  5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.
  6. Bake Until Perfectly Done: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting: While the cake layers cool, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat, then stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
  8. Assemble the Cake: Once cake layers are completely cool, spread the coconut-pecan frosting generously between each layer, over the top and sides to create the signature rich texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth batter and even baking.
  • Do not overbeat the batter to prevent a tough cake texture.
  • Measure flour by spooning and leveling to avoid dense layers.
  • Allow cake layers to cool fully before frosting to prevent sliding or melting.
  • Lightly toast pecans before chopping to enhance their flavor in the frosting.

Nutrition

Keywords: German Chocolate Cake, Coconut Pecan Frosting, Chocolate Cake, Classic Dessert, Moist Chocolate Cake

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/german-chocolate-cake/