If you’ve ever craved a slice of rich, moist chocolate cake paired with a delightful coconut-pecan frosting, look no further than the best German Chocolate Cake! This cake is not just any ordinary dessert; its layers of tender chocolate sponge and heavenly frosting create a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Did you know that this treat has roots tracing back to the 19th century? It was named after an American named Samuel German who developed a dark-baking chocolate used in the recipe.
Why is this cake special, you ask? Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a family favorite. It’s also incredibly easy to whip up in your kitchen, making it the perfect sweet treat for anyone to enjoy. So, if you’re ready to impress friends and loved ones with a dessert that doesn’t require expert baking skills but delivers an explosion of taste, this is the cake you need to try!
Do you have other favorite desserts like moist carrot cake or decadent tiramisu? This German Chocolate Cake holds its own among the best of them, making it a must-try for your next bake! Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and get that baking spirit soaring!
What is German Chocolate Cake?
So, what’s in a name? The term “German” in German Chocolate Cake has nothing to do with the country itself; it actually refers to Samuel German, the chocolate maker who created a dark-baking chocolate in the 1850s. Isn’t that a fun tidbit? One might say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake is a perfect symbol of just that! With its luscious layers and rich flavors, it’s bound to win over anyone who will enjoy a slice. So, grab your mixing bowl and utensils, and let’s give this cake a go!
Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Cake
There are countless reasons to make this German Chocolate Cake! First, the main highlight is the combination of chocolate sponge, smooth frosting, and crunchy pecans, all working together to create a unique and indulgent flavor experience. Second, making this cake at home is not only delicious, but also cost-effective. You get to use simple ingredients without breaking the bank! Lastly, the addition of coconut and pecans gives it a distinctive taste, setting it apart from other chocolate cakes.
If you’re searching for something different yet familiar, this cake stands proudly next to other dessert delights like classic chocolate cake or red velvet. Ready to taste the goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe!
How to Make German Chocolate Cake
Quick Overview
Making the best German Chocolate Cake is a breeze! In less than an hour, you can create something truly special for your family or friends. With its easy-to-follow instructions, delightful ingredients, and scrumptious taste, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s check out the ingredients so we can get baking!
Key Ingredients for German Chocolate Cake
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this fabulous cake:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the frosting, you’ll need:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Cake Pans: Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Merge Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: While the cakes cool, begin preparing the frosting by cooking the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Frost the Cakes: Once the cakes are entirely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Top Tips for Perfecting German Chocolate Cake
To make sure your German Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This will help all ingredients blend smoothly for a fluffier cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a denser cake. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
- Check Baking Time: Every oven can vary, so make sure to check the cakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
- Try Variations: Feel free to mix in different nuts or even different flavors of frosting to make it uniquely yours!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your German Chocolate Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to a week! If you want to enjoy it slightly warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just don’t forget to cover it to prevent it from drying out!
Creating the best German Chocolate Cake is not just about baking; it’s about bringing joy to your kitchen and sharing delicious moments with people you love. So why wait? Gather those ingredients and start baking today! Your taste buds will thank you!
German Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Stir in boiling water (the batter will be thin).
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, cook sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and egg yolks, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Allow to cool slightly.
- Once cakes are cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
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