Ultimate German Chocolate Cake Recipe Guide: A Sweet Tradition

Growing up, German Chocolate Cake was a staple at our family gatherings, a timeless classic that never fails to impress. The rich history behind this decadent dessert dates back to the 1950s, originating from the original Bakers German’s Chocolate Cake recipe. Crafted with toasted pecans and sweetened coconut, the frosting steals the spotlight, complementing the ultra-moist cake layers perfectly.

In my quest for the ultimate German Chocolate Cake recipe, I revisited the traditional method of creaming butter and sugars, incorporating sour cream for that unbeatable moist texture. The deep chocolate flavor is achieved through the use of Dutch process cocoa powder and a semisweet chocolate bar, resulting in a cake that’s undeniably rich and indulgent. Join me as I share my family’s beloved recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions and a video tutorial, ensuring you master this timeless dessert with ease.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the essential ingredients for crafting a delicious German Chocolate Cake. Below are the lists of items needed to create the perfect blend of flavors for the cake, the coconut-pecan filling, and the rich chocolate frosting.

For the Chocolate Cake

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 and 1/2 cups (320g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water or coffee
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Coconut-Pecan Filling

• 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/3 cups (100g) sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup (120g) pecans, chopped

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter
• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream

Gather these quality ingredients to elevate your German Chocolate Cake to a whole new level of decadence.

Equipment Needed

To make this delicious German Chocolate Cake recipe, you will need the following equipment:

• Three 9-inch round cake pans
• Wax paper
• Stand mixer with whisk attachment
• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Having these essential tools ready will ensure a smooth preparation process for your German Chocolate Cake.

Preparation Steps

Time to bring this decadent German Chocolate Cake to life! Follow these steps carefully to create a masterpiece that will wow your taste buds and impress your guests.

Preparing the Chocolate Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch baking pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Melt chopped German chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Let it cool slightly.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and egg yolk one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
5. Reduce the mixer speed and alternate adding buttermilk and flour mixture in three batches, ending with the flour mixture.
6. Fold in the melted chocolate until well combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake until a cake tester comes out clean.

Making the Coconut-Pecan Filling

1. Gather the necessary ingredients for the filling.
2. In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
3. Stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Remove from heat and let it cool before spreading it on the cake.
4. In a saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
6. Let the frosting cool slightly before spreading it over the cake.

Assembly Instructions

Now that we have prepared the delicious components of our German Chocolate Cake, it’s time to bring everything together with the final steps of layering and frosting the cake.

Layering the Cake and Filling

1. Level each cake layer with a cake leveler if needed.
2. Spread a dollop of frosting on a cake board to act as glue for the cake.
3. Place the first cake layer top side up on the center of the cake board, leaving a slight edge visible.
4. Spread about ¾ cup of buttercream followed by half of the coconut-pecan filling and pecan crunch on the cake layer.
5. Add the second cake layer top side up, repeating the filling process.
6. Place the final cake layer top side down on the second layer of fillings.
7. Apply a thin coat of frosting around the entire cake to lock in the crumbs.
8. Set the cake in the freezer for 10 minutes to allow the frosting to set.
9. Remove the cake from the freezer and continue frosting the cake with the remaining frosting.
10. If desired, decorate the cake with swirls or any design using additional chocolate frosting.

Baking Tips and Tricks

To ensure the success of your German Chocolate Cake baking endeavor, here are some essential tips and tricks that will elevate your cake-making skills:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, make sure your eggs, buttermilk, and butter are at room temperature before starting the recipe. Room temperature ingredients blend together more smoothly, resulting in a more uniform cake batter.

2. Weigh Your Ingredients: Using a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients, especially flour and cocoa powder, provides the most accurate measurements. This precision ensures the correct texture and balance of flavors in your cake.

3. Proper Mixing Technique: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense or tough cake. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender crumb structure.

4. Parchment Paper Lining: To prevent the cake from sticking to the pans, line the bottom with parchment paper after greasing and flouring. This simple step guarantees an easy release of the cakes once baked.

5. Even Cake Layers: To achieve evenly baked cake layers, ensure you distribute the batter evenly among the cake pans. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup for accuracy, and tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles before baking.

6. Cool Cakes Completely: Before assembling and frosting the cake, make sure the cake layers are completely cooled. Warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt or slide off, affecting the overall presentation of your German Chocolate Cake.

7. Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting, known as a crumb coat, to the assembled cake. This initial layer seals in any loose crumbs, providing a smooth base for the final layer of frosting and enhancing the overall appearance of the cake.

8. Decorate with Precision: Use a piping bag with a decorative tip to create beautiful swirls or designs on top of the cake. You can also garnish with additional toasted pecans or shredded coconut for an extra visual and textural appeal.

By incorporating these baking tips and tricks into your German Chocolate Cake preparation, you’ll be sure to impress with a delicious and visually stunning dessert that captures the essence of this classic treat.

Make-Ahead Instructions

To make the preparation of your German Chocolate Cake a breeze, you can take advantage of some make-ahead strategies. This will not only save you time on the day of baking but also allow flavors to meld together for a more delicious outcome. Here’s how you can plan ahead:

Cake Layers

1. Prepare and Bake: You can bake your cake layers ahead of time. Once they have completely cooled, wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. This will help the cakes stay fresh and moist.

Coconut-Pecan Filling

1. Make in Advance: The coconut-pecan filling can also be prepared ahead of time. After making it, let it cool to room temperature. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This will give the flavors a chance to intensify.
2. Early Preparation: The rich chocolate frosting can be made ahead as well. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a good stir to restore its creamy consistency.

By following these make-ahead instructions, you can break down the preparation process into manageable steps, ensuring that you have a scrumptious German Chocolate Cake ready to enjoy when the time comes.

Storage Recommendations

When it comes to preserving this indulgent treat, I have some handy storage recommendations for you.

Refrigerating

If you have any remaining German Chocolate Cake, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. I recommend consuming any leftovers within 5 days to ensure freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake slices or the whole cake. Simply wrap cake slices in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 2 months. Alternatively, freeze the entire cake by wrapping it in layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Ensure to thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before serving for the best taste.

Conclusion

In my exploration of German Chocolate Cake recipes, I’ve uncovered the secrets to creating a decadent and memorable dessert. From the rich history of this beloved cake to the intricacies of its coconut-pecan frosting, every step in the baking process is crucial. By following the detailed instructions and essential tips provided, you can embark on your own journey to baking the perfect German Chocolate Cake. Remember to savor each moment in the kitchen as you mix, bake, and decorate this delightful treat. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of chocolate and coconut fill your home with warmth and comfort. Happy baking!