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German Chocolate Cake

A rich and indulgent chocolate cake layered with luxurious coconut-pecan frosting, perfect for celebrations and gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Celebration, Dessert
Cuisine: American, German
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1.5 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup strong hot coffee
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the frosting
  • 12 fl oz evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks, beaten lightly
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups sweetened flaked coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted lightly)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round pans and lay parchment paper on the bottoms.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, hot coffee, and vanilla together.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and both sugars until fluffy.
  5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  6. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
  7. Divide the batter among the prepared pans.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
Frosting Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, flaked coconut, and toasted pecans. Cool until spreadable.
Assembly
  1. Layer frosting between each cake tier and on top, optionally broiling the top for a golden hue.
  2. Chill for about an hour before slicing.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best batter. Do not rush cooling the cake; it enhances flavor. Optionally, experiment with different nuts or chocolate varieties in the frosting.