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German Chocolate Cake

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German Chocolate Cake is a rich, ultra-moist chocolate cake layered with a signature coconut-pecan filling. This American classic delivers a sweet, nutty, and indulgent dessert perfect for celebrations.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water or hot coffee
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
  5. Stir in boiling water or coffee (batter will be thin).
  6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.
  8. For the filling: In a saucepan, whisk evaporated milk, egg yolks, brown sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and golden, about 10–12 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let cool before using.
  10. To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with coconut-pecan filling. Repeat with remaining layers. Optionally, leave the sides unfrosted or apply a thin coat of ganache or more filling.

Notes

  • Use hot coffee instead of water to deepen the chocolate flavor.
  • Make the cake and filling a day ahead and assemble before serving.
  • Let the filling cool completely before spreading.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/german-chocolate-cake/