Growing up, German Chocolate Cake was a staple in my family’s kitchen. The rich history behind this classic dessert dates back to 1957 when the original recipe was first introduced on the Bakers German Sweet chocolate bar boxes. The secret to its decadent flavor lies in the toasted pecans and sweetened coconut frosting, elevating the moist chocolate cake layers to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Crafted with Dutch process cocoa powder and a semisweet chocolate bar, this recipe guarantees a deep, indulgent chocolate flavor that will leave your taste buds craving more. As I revisit this timeless favorite, I invite you to join me in recreating this authentic German Chocolate Cake using my family’s cherished recipe. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to savor every bite of this beloved dessert, honoring its legacy while creating new memories around the table.
Ingredients
Creating a luscious German chocolate cake requires a list of essential ingredients to achieve that perfect balance of flavors. Below are the ingredients you will need for the cake layers, coconut-pecan filling, and chocolate frosting.
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup hot water or coffee
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coconut-Pecan Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gather these quality ingredients, follow the detailed steps, and delight in creating a homemade German chocolate cake that will leave everyone craving for more.
Equipment Needed
To prepare this decadent German chocolate cake at home, you will need the following equipment:
Cake Preparation:
- 3 9-inch round cake pans
- Wax paper
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Stand mixer with whisk attachment
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula for folding
Cake Batter and Filling:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Saucepan for melting chocolate
- Whisk for stirring
- Spatula for mixing the batter
- Cooling rack
- Oven
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray for greasing pans
Instructions
Preparing the Cake Batter
First, preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the German chocolate until smooth. Alternatively, melt in the microwave on medium power. Let it cool slightly.
Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and egg yolk one at a time, incorporating well.
Beat in vanilla, then alternate adding the buttermilk and flour mixture in three batches, ending with the flour. Fold in melted chocolate.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and bake until a tester comes out clean.
Baking the Cake Layers
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the cake pans until browned.
Alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream to the batter, starting and ending with flour.
Divide the batter evenly between two pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
Remove the cake pans from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Making the Coconut-Pecan Filling
While the cakes are baking, prepare the coconut-pecan frosting by following the instructions provided below the coconut-pecan frosting heading in the original recipe text.
Once the cakes have cooled, slice them horizontally to create 4 layers for assembling.
Preparing the Chocolate Frosting
Prepare the chocolate frosting by following the instructions mentioned in the original context that detail how to make the chocolate frosting.
Assembly
Assembling the German Chocolate Cake is the final step that brings all the delicious components together for a show-stopping dessert. Here’s a guide on how to layer, frost, and decorate the cake to perfection.
Layering the Cake
- Level the cake layers: Using a cake leveler, ensure each cake layer is flat for easy stacking.
- Apply frosting as glue: Spread a dollop of frosting on a cake board to secure the first layer.
- Create the layers: Place the first cake layer, top side up, on the cake board. Add buttercream, coconut filling, and pecan crunch in layers.
- Repeat the process: Add the second cake layer on top, followed by the fillings. Finish with the final cake layer, top side down.
- Crumb coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting around the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Place the cake in the freezer to set for 10 minutes.
Frosting the Cake
- Final frosting: Remove the cake from the freezer and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth it out for a clean finish.
- Additional frosting: If desired, prepare extra chocolate frosting for piping swirls or other decorations on the cake.
- Decorate the cake: Use your preferred piping tip to add swirls or designs to the cake’s top.
- Slice and serve: With the cake assembled and decorated, slice it and enjoy the delicious layers of flavors in every bite.
Storage Tips
As a seasoned baker, I understand the importance of proper storage to keep your German Chocolate Cake fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here are some tips on how to best store your cake:
Refrigeration
To preserve the moistness and flavor of your German Chocolate Cake, store any leftover slices or the whole cake in the refrigerator. Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap to help retain its moisture. It is recommended to refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days to ensure its freshness.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to enjoy your German Chocolate Cake at a later time, freezing is a great option. After baking the cake layers and allowing them to cool completely, wrap them well in plastic wrap and place each layer in a ziplock freezer bag. The cake layers can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, allow the frozen cake layers to come to room temperature before frosting. You can also freeze the assembled cake by wrapping each slice individually in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Allow the slices to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips and Tricks
When preparing a German Chocolate Cake, following these tips and tricks can help ensure a successful baking experience. From preventing overmixing to achieving the right frosting consistency, these valuable insights will guide you through the process seamlessly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cake
- Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can lead to the cake’s texture becoming tough and dense. Mix the batter just until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Consistent Frosting: Ensure your frosting is neither too stiff nor too runny for optimal spreading. The right consistency is key to a beautifully frosted cake.
- Creaming Technique: Cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy to incorporate air, ensuring a light and moist cake.
- Continuous Stirring: When preparing the coconut pecan filling, stir constantly to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, thick consistency.
Adjustment for High Altitude Baking
If you’re baking at high altitudes, you may need to make adjustments to the recipe to ensure a successful outcome:
- Leavening Agents: Increase the baking soda slightly to help the cake rise properly in high-altitude conditions.
- Baking Temperature: Adjust the oven temperature as needed to accommodate high altitudes; a slightly lower temperature may be necessary to prevent over-browning.
- Baking Time: Monitor the baking time closely, as cakes may bake faster at higher altitudes. Test for doneness using a toothpick to ensure the cake is fully baked.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of baking a perfect German Chocolate Cake is a rewarding experience that anyone can achieve with the right guidance. By understanding the significance of using quality ingredients, following the recipe diligently, and implementing essential baking techniques, you can create a decadent dessert that will impress your family and friends. Remember to pay attention to storage recommendations to preserve the cake’s freshness for longer periods. With valuable tips on successful baking and adjustments for high-altitude conditions, you are equipped to tackle any challenges that may arise during the baking process. Embrace the joy of baking and delight in the delicious results of your homemade German Chocolate Cake!