German Chocolate Cake Recipe

This classic German Chocolate Cake features a rich chocolate cake layered with a decadent coconut-pecan frosting.  

Ingredients:

  • For the Cake:
    • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour  
    • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon salt  
    • 1 cup buttermilk  
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 cup packed brown sugar
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil  
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract  
    • 1 cup hot coffee (brewed)
  • For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
    • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk  
    • 1/2 cup butter, softened  
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 cup chopped pecans  
    • 1 cup flaked coconut

Instructions:

  1. Make the Cake:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.  
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
    • Stir in the hot coffee.  
    • Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.  
    • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.  
  2. Make the Frosting:
    • In a large bowl, beat together sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
    • Stir in chopped pecans and flaked coconut.
  3. Assemble the Cake:
    • Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.
    • Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
    • Top with the second cake layer.
    • Frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining frosting.
    • Garnish with additional chopped pecans and coconut, if desired.

Tips:

  • For extra richness, use high-quality dark cocoa powder.
  • To ensure even baking, use two identical cake pans.
  • For a more intense chocolate flavor, use strong brewed coffee.
  • Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Enjoy your homemade German Chocolate Cake!

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