Description
A comprehensive guide to baking the classic German chocolate cake, featuring a rich chocolate flavor and a delicious coconut-pecan frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in hot water until the batter is smooth. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- To make the frosting, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10–12 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, coconut, and chopped pecans. Let cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting over the top. Repeat with remaining layers, frosting the top and sides.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- This cake can be made a day in advance; just frost it before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg