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Introduction
Moist, chocolatey, and layered with a sweet, buttery coconut-pecan frosting, German Chocolate Cake is a timeless dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Despite its name, this iconic American cake is all about deep chocolate flavor and a uniquely rich filling that makes every bite unforgettable. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special celebrations, it’s a true showstopper.
Ingredients (Serves 12–14)
For the cake:
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 4 oz sweet German chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, separated
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (to enhance chocolate flavor)
For the coconut-pecan frosting:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Make the cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Melt the chocolate:
Pour boiling water over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly. - Whisk dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. - Cream butter and sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the melted chocolate, vanilla, and buttermilk. - Add dry ingredients:
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. - Beat egg whites:
In a separate bowl, beat egg whites to stiff peaks. Gently fold them into the batter. - Bake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the frosting:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 10–12 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, shredded coconut, and pecans. Let cool to room temperature before frosting the cake.
Assemble the cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread 1/3 of the coconut-pecan frosting over the top.
- Repeat with the second and third layers, leaving the sides unfrosted for the classic look (or cover the sides if you prefer).
- Garnish with extra pecans or chocolate shavings if desired. Refrigerate briefly to set before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, brush layers with a simple syrup before frosting.
- Use a chocolate ganache on the sides for a rich twist.
- Make cupcakes instead for individual servings!
Enjoy !!
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