How to Make the Best German Chocolate Cake Recipe at Home.

Did you know German chocolate cake is a favorite, with a rating of 4.94 out of 5 from nearly 4,000 votes? It’s a dessert that wows everyone. If you want to make a homemade German chocolate cake that’s both rich and delicious, you’re in the right spot. This guide will teach you how to make the best German chocolate cake recipe that will wow your loved ones.

Are you ready to learn how to make this amazing cake? We’ll cover everything you need to know. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can bake this classic dessert at home.

Key Takeaways

• German chocolate cake has a high recipe rating of 4.94/5.
• It requires specific ingredients like German chocolate and buttermilk.
• Contains a rich blend of flavors from coconut, pecans, and chocolate.
• Each slice has approximately 591 calories, combining a balance of fat and carbohydrates.
• The cake can be frozen for 2-3 months, making it great for planning ahead.
• Step-by-step guidance ensures both novice and experienced bakers can succeed.

Introduction to German Chocolate Cake

The German chocolate cake is a beloved dessert in the United States. It has moist chocolate layers and a coconut-pecan frosting. This cake’s name comes from Samuel German, an American chocolatier, not Germany.

German created Baker’s German Sweet Chocolate in 1852. This chocolate inspired the traditional German chocolate cake recipe we love today.

This cake is special because of its mix of flavors and textures. The chocolate, coconut, and pecans make it a treat to enjoy. Since the 1850s, it has been a favorite among home bakers, loved by many generations.

What Makes German Chocolate Cake Unique

German chocolate cake is special because of its ingredients and flavors. It has a frosting made from caramelized sugar, butter, coconut, and pecans. This mix gives it a nutty and slightly chewy texture.

It uses 4 ounces of Baker’s German’s sweet chocolate. This is what makes it different from other chocolate cakes.

The cake is sweet because of 2 cups of granulated sugar and a cup of soft light brown sugar. This creates a rich taste that everyone loves. It uses 4 large eggs, with yolks and whites separated, to make it light.

The base is 2 1/2 cups of sifted cake flour. This helps the cake rise beautifully and stay airy.

When baked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, the cake layers become moist and fluffy in 22 to 25 minutes. This quick baking time makes it easy for beginners to make. The frosting is key, made with 1 cup of evaporated milk, 3 egg yolks, and 1 1/3 cups of flaked sweetened coconut.

The cake has a rich history, dating back to Samuel German’s dark chocolate bars in 1852. Its fame grew in 1957 with Mrs. George Clay’s recipe. Each bite is a mix of tradition and creativity with top-notch ingredients.

Ingredients for the Perfect German Chocolate Cake

Making a delicious German chocolate cake needs the right ingredients. Start with key components that give the cake its special taste and feel. Knowing these ingredients will help you make a cake that tastes just right.

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

The cake’s base includes several important parts:

• Granulated Sugar: 2 cups, about 20% of the total weight, adds sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups, roughly 15% of the recipe, provides structure.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: ¾ cup, contributing to the rich chocolate flavor, making up around 10% of the dry ingredients.
• Buttermilk: 1 cup, accounting for about 15% of the liquid components, adds moisture and tenderness.
• Large Eggs: 4 eggs, which comprise about 10% of the total ingredient count, help bind the mixture together.
• Baking Soda: 2 teaspoons, as a leavening agent, ensures the cake rises beautifully.
• Vegetable Oil: ½ cup, enriching the cake’s texture and flavor.

These ingredients make the cake moist and flavorful. Using the best ingredients is key to a great cake.

Ingredients for the Frostings

You’ll also need to make two frostings for a real German chocolate cake:

• Coconut-Pecan Frosting: Use 1 cup of evaporated milk, 1 cup of chopped pecans, and 1½ cups of flaked coconut alongside 1 cup of granulated sugar. This frosting adds a delightful sweetness and texture.
• Chocolate Buttercream Frosting: For a creamy layer, gather 1 cup of unsalted butter, 4-5 cups of powdered sugar, 5 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and a splash of vanilla extract.

Adding these flavors makes the cake even richer. Following this recipe will give you a cake that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Step-by-Step German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Making a from scratch German chocolate cake is rewarding. This recipe guides you through each step for a delicious result. Start by gathering all your ingredients to make the process smooth.

Preparing the Cake Batter

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together dry ingredients: cake flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Melt 4 oz of baking chocolate and let it cool a bit.

In a large bowl, cream together granulated sugar and light brown sugar with unsalted butter until fluffy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each. Then, mix in the melted chocolate, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.

Don’t overmix the batter. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet gently. This careful mixing is key for a light cake. Once mixed well, the batter is ready for baking.

Baking the Cake

Before baking, grease and flour your pans. Divide the batter evenly between them. Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for keeping the cakes moist.

Following these steps carefully will help your cakes turn out great. Now, you can move on to making the coconut-pecan frosting.

Making the Coconut Pecan Frosting

Coconut pecan frosting is a key part of authentic German chocolate cake frosting. It balances sweetness and nuttiness, making the cake even more delicious. Here, we’ll cover what you need and how to make this rich frosting.

Ingredients for Coconut Pecan Frosting

To make this frosting, you’ll need:

• 1 and 1/2 cups evaporated milk
• 1 and 1/2 cups light brown sugar
• 6 large egg yolks
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 and 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 and 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and chopped

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in your coconut pecan frosting.

Cooking the Frosting to Perfection

Start by mixing evaporated milk, light brown sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Cook for about 10 minutes, until it thickens like pudding.

Then, add the butter and stir until it melts. Mix in the sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans well. Let it cook for another 5–10 minutes, stirring patiently. This step is important for the creamy texture.

After cooking, take the saucepan off the heat and let the frosting cool to room temperature. This step is crucial for the frosting to set properly and complement your chocolate layers beautifully.

Making Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

A luscious chocolate buttercream frosting adds a delightful touch to your German chocolate cake. To create this irresistible frosting, focus on the essential ingredients. The right combination of high-quality chocolate and butter will elevate your treat and enhance its overall flavor profile. A simple chocolate frosting recipe can incorporate several types of chocolate, each imparting a unique taste and texture to the buttercream.

Essential Ingredients for Chocolate Frosting

To craft the perfect chocolate buttercream frosting, gather these essential ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup softened unsalted butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Using unsweetened cocoa powder balances the sweetness from the powdered sugar, ensuring a well-rounded flavor. Heavy cream provides a rich consistency, making it an ideal choice for this chocolate frosting recipe. Vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor, while a pinch of salt complements all the ingredients.

Tips for Achieving the Right Consistency

Achieving the right consistency for your chocolate buttercream frosting is critical for a smooth and spreadable finish. Start with the butter at room temperature, allowing it to cream well with the sugar. If your frosting is too thick, gradually add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired texture. Conversely, if it becomes too thin, incorporate additional powdered sugar to thicken it up. Adjusting the sweetness can cater to different palates, ensuring your frosting appeals to everyone.

Assembling Your German Chocolate Cake

Building your German chocolate cake needs focus and some key layering techniques for cake. Start by making each cake layer even. This makes the cake stable and looks great. Use a serrated knife to cut off the top of each layer so they’re flat.

Think about how you want to layer your cake. You might put chocolate cake on the bottom, then coconut pecan filling, and finish with chocolate buttercream. This mix of flavors and textures is delicious.

When you layer the cake, put an equal amount of frosting on each layer. Let some of the filling spill over for a charming look. This adds a rustic touch to your assembling German chocolate cake.

For a sleek look, try a “naked cake” with just a little frosting. This lets the layers show off and impresses everyone. It’s a modern twist that’s easy to do.

Once the cake is built, smooth out the frosting with a spatula. Make sure the edges are clean for a nice finish. Adding things like toasted coconut flakes or chocolate shavings can make it look even better. Aim for a mix of creativity and elegance to wow your guests.

Refrigerate the cake for 30-60 minutes before you serve it. This makes the layers stick together better and makes slicing easier. When you serve it, you’ll see the hard work pay off in a beautiful dessert!

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To make an amazing German chocolate cake, follow these expert tips. Start by using top-notch chocolate with at least 60% cocoa. This boosts the cake’s chocolate taste. Bake at 350°F and check for doneness around 25 minutes to avoid drying out.

Let the layers cool for about an hour on wire racks after baking. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap while still warm. This keeps the cake moist. For the frosting, toast the pecans and coconut to enhance their flavors. The frosting needs 1 cup of evaporated milk, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter.

Apply a crumb coat first when frosting. It catches loose crumbs, ensuring a smooth final layer. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of regular milk. If you can’t use eggs, try 1/4 cup of applesauce or a mashed banana for moisture.

Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This step improves both taste and texture. By following these tips, your cake will be not only delicious but also look great.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips for German Chocolate Cake

Preparing a make-ahead German chocolate cake can save you time and stress. It’s perfect for busy celebrations. You can make it up to two days in advance and keep it at room temperature. Knowing how to store your cake is key for a great experience.

Freezing your cake layers is another option. They can be frozen without frosting for up to three months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This keeps the cake moist and soft.

Frostings should be made just before serving because they don’t freeze well. The coconut pecan frosting should be kept in a cool, dry place. Proper wrapping is crucial to avoid off-flavors from freezer odors.

When it’s time to enjoy your cake, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This keeps the cake tasting fresh. Here’s a quick summary of freezing tips:

By following these tips, your make-ahead German chocolate cake will be delicious. It lets you enjoy your special occasion with loved ones.

Considerations for Variations of German Chocolate Cake

The classic German chocolate cake has won many hearts. You can make it even better with creative baking ideas. By tweaking it a bit, you can enjoy many delicious variations that suit different tastes.

Try using different nuts like walnuts or macadamia nuts instead of pecans. You can also add fruits like raspberries or bananas to the cake or frosting. This adds a refreshing twist to the taste.

Fusion flavors are another exciting way to go. Imagine adding espresso for a mocha version or orange zest for a citrusy note. Each small change can make a big difference, keeping the cake’s essence intact.

Exploring variations of German chocolate cake opens up a world of possibilities in baking. Each choice can turn this classic into a unique treat that will wow your loved ones.

Conclusion

Baking a German chocolate cake at home adds a special touch to your desserts. You’ve learned the key steps to make a top-notch German chocolate cake. This includes choosing chocolate with at least 60% cocoa and making the perfect coconut pecan frosting.

As you start baking, remember to add your own special touches. Try adding a pinch of salt to the frosting or toasting the pecans for more flavor. Your cake can be stored for up to three days at room temperature or longer in the fridge or freezer.

Baking this cake is not just about the taste. It’s also about creating memories in your kitchen. With the tips and techniques shared, you can make this cake your own masterpiece. It’s perfect for any celebration or just a sweet treat.

How to Make the Best German Chocolate Cake Recipe at Home.

Print Recipe

Homemade German Chocolate Cake

• Total Time: 12 minute
• Yield: 10–12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 oz. baking chocolate
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4 large eggs (separated)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• Coconut Pecan Frosting:
  • 1 and 1/2 cups evaporated milk
  • 1 and 1/2 cups light brown sugar
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 and 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 and 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and chopped
• Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
  • 2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup softened unsalted butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

 

• Optional: walnuts, macadamia nuts, raspberries, bananas, espresso powder, orange zest

Instructions

See detailed steps in the article: preparing cake batter, baking, making frostings, assembling

• Author: The Quicky Recipes
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 591 kcal
• Sugar: High
• Fat: High
• Carbohydrates: High

Keywords: German chocolate cake, homemade cake, coconut pecan frosting, chocolate buttercream, classic dessert