Name: Family German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level for accurate measuring.; 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake layers.; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Use a high-quality cocoa for best flavor.; 2 tsp baking soda – Helps the cake rise beautifully.; 1 tsp baking powder – Adds lightness.; 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.; 1 cup buttermilk – Adds tang and keeps the cake moist.; 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the texture soft and tender.; 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness.; 2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.; 1 cup hot water (or hot coffee) – Intensifies the chocolate and helps create a silky batter.; 1 cup evaporated milk – The base for the caramelized frosting.; 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps thicken the frosting.; 3 large egg yolks – Essential for richness and structure.; 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Adds flavor and smoothness.; 1 tsp vanilla extract – Balances the sweetness.; 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut – Chewy and sweet.; 1 cup chopped pecans – Toast them for extra depth.

Description

A rich and moist German chocolate cake with a sweet coconut-pecan frosting, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level for accurate measuring.
2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake layers.
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Use a high-quality cocoa for best flavor.
2 tsp baking soda – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
1 tsp baking powder – Adds lightness.
1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
1 cup buttermilk – Adds tang and keeps the cake moist.
1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the texture soft and tender.
2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness.
2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
1 cup hot water (or hot coffee) – Intensifies the chocolate and helps create a silky batter.
1 cup evaporated milk – The base for the caramelized frosting.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps thicken the frosting.
3 large egg yolks – Essential for richness and structure.
1/2 cup unsalted butter – Adds flavor and smoothness.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Balances the sweetness.
1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut – Chewy and sweet.
1 cup chopped pecans – Toast them for extra depth.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
Gradually add hot water (or coffee) and mix until the batter is thin but well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir constantly until the mixture thickens (about 12 minutes). Remove from heat and add vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans.
Let the frosting cool slightly, then spread it between the cake layers and on top.
Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For extra flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the frosting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: German

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 35 g
Sodium: 300 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: German chocolate cake, family dessert, coconut pecan frosting