German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Few desserts can evoke the same kind of delight as a rich, decadent German Chocolate Cake. Known for its luscious layers of chocolate cake filled with a gooey coconut-pecan frosting, this cake has earned its place in the pantheon of beloved desserts. Contrary to what its name might suggest, German Chocolate Cake is actually an American creation. Named after Samuel German, who developed a sweet baking chocolate for the Baker’s Chocolate Company, this cake has been a favorite since the mid-20th century. Let’s dive into a foolproof recipe that will make any occasion special.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 package (4 ounces) Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup butter
• 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

Making the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Break the German’s sweet chocolate into pieces and place it in a bowl. Pour boiling water over the chocolate and stir until it is completely melted. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
5. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.
6. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them to wire racks to cool completely.

Making the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Cool to room temperature before using.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread one-third of the coconut-pecan frosting over the top. Repeat with the second and third layers, spreading the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
2. Finishing Touches: For an added touch, garnish the cake with extra pecans and coconut on top.

Tips for the Perfect German Chocolate Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the butter, eggs, and buttermilk, are at room temperature before you start. This ensures a smoother batter and better texture in your cake.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Proper Cooling: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Conclusion

With its moist, tender crumb and rich, nutty frosting, German Chocolate Cake is a show-stopper dessert that is sure to impress. Whether for a special celebration or just because, this cake is a labor of love that is well worth the effort. Happy baking!

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Feel free to reach out with any questions or share your German Chocolate Cake creations in the comments below! Enjoy baking this classic treat and delight your family and friends with a slice of homemade goodness.