Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a classic German Chocolate Cake to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your loved ones. This decadent dessert is known for its rich, chocolatey layers and its delightful coconut-pecan frosting that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a cozy treat at home, this cake is bound to create sweet memories. Let’s dive into the comforting world of baking and create a masterpiece that will have everyone clamoring for a second slice!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (German chocolate style)
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water or hot coffee
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup sugar (for frosting)
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans to ensure easy release once baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined, creating a dry mixture full of rich cocoa aroma.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until smooth. Then, gradually pour in the hot water or coffee, mixing until the batter is silky and well blended.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans.
- For the frosting, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and takes on a lovely golden hue.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Stir until everything is well combined. Let the frosting cool slightly before using.
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a cake plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then gently place the second layer on top and frost the top, leaving the sides typically unfrosted to showcase the luscious layers.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy every delightful bite of this homemade German Chocolate Cake!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra rich flavor, use freshly brewed coffee instead of hot water.
- Feel free to decorate the top with additional pecans or toasted coconut for a beautiful presentation!
- Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Cooking Techniques
When baking cakes, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour—spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents the flour from being packed down, which can lead to a dense cake. Also, greasing and flouring the pans properly will help prevent sticking, so don’t skip this step!
FAQ
- Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them wrapped tightly at room temperature. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve.
- Can I use a different nut in the frosting? Yes! If pecans aren’t your favorite, chopped walnuts are a delightful alternative.
- What if I want a chocolate ganache instead of frosting? You can top the cake with a chocolate ganache for a different twist! Just substitute the frosting with a simple ganache made from equal parts chocolate and heavy cream.
Conclusion
This German Chocolate Cake, with its luscious coconut-pecan frosting, is a treat that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a heavenly combination of flavors and textures, from the moist chocolate layers to the rich, nutty frosting. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet craving, this cake is sure to bring joy and comfort to your dessert table. So gather your loved ones, share a slice, and savor the love that goes into every forkful!