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Best German Chocolate Cake Recipe: enjoy in Decadence!

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Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this classic Best German Chocolate Cake, featuring layers of moist chocolate cake paired with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for frosting)
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Slowly stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  9. While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by combining the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat.
  10. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 12-15 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
  11. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the second layer.
  12. Top with the final layer and spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with additional coconut and pecans if desired.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of instant coffee to the boiling water.
  • This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 38g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg