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Best Ever German Chocolate Cake

Best Ever German Chocolate Cake

Discover the rich, moist Best Ever German Chocolate Cake featuring tender chocolate layers paired with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. Perfect for celebrations, this classic dessert delivers a balanced blend of chocolate, coconut, and pecans with a moist, tender texture and elegant yet easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Start by mixing dry ingredients including flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder in one bowl. In a separate bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
  2. Bake the Layers: Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured round cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for around 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the layers cool completely before frosting.
  3. Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns golden. Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Allow to cool slightly before spreading.
  4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining coconut-pecan mixture, ensuring every bite has that signature topping.
  5. Chill and Serve: For best results, chill the assembled cake for at least an hour to set the frosting before slicing. Serve at room temperature to enjoy the perfect blend of flavors.

Notes

  • Use eggs at room temperature to help the batter mix evenly and rise better.
  • Sift dry ingredients to prevent lumps and create a lighter cake texture.
  • Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
  • Divide batter evenly between pans for consistent baking and even layers.
  • Use fresh coconut and pecans for elevated frosting flavor and crunch.
  • Cool cake layers completely before frosting to prevent melting or runny frosting.
  • Stir frosting continuously while cooking to prevent lumps and burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: German chocolate cake, chocolate cake, coconut pecan frosting, moist chocolate cake, classic dessert, celebration cake