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–+ servings

Classic German Chocolate Cake with Coconut Pecan Frosting

This homemade German chocolate cake is incredibly moist and rich, layered with a traditional coconut pecan frosting that will transport you straight to dessert heaven. Despite its name, this beloved cake is actually an American creation that's perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you need a special treat!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 809
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces sweet German baking chocolate broken into pieces
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs separated
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks lightly beaten
  • ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1⅓ cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the German sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Beat in egg yolks one at a time, then add the melted chocolate and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
  7. In a separate clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  8. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter until no white streaks remain.
  9. Divide batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  11. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
  12. For the frosting: In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
  13. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and becomes golden brown (about 12 minutes).
  14. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
  15. Allow frosting to cool until thick enough to spread, stirring occasionally (about 30-45 minutes).
  16. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
  17. Spread approximately 1/3 of the frosting evenly over the top.
  18. Top with second cake layer and another 1/3 of the frosting.
  19. Add final cake layer and spread remaining frosting over the top (traditionally, the sides are left unfrosted).
  20. Allow cake to set for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 809kcalCarbohydrates: 102gProtein: 12gFat: 42gSaturated Fat: 11gSugar: 74g
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