If you have a special occasion coming up or just want to treat yourself to something truly decadent, this German Chocolate Cake Recipe is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Rich, moist layers of chocolate cake combine beautifully with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting that is both creamy and textured, creating a dessert that’s full of charm and irresistible flavor. This recipe delivers everything you love about German chocolate cake without any fuss, making it an approachable yet impressive treat to bake and share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this German Chocolate Cake Recipe is surprisingly straightforward. Each component plays its part—from the rich chocolate cake base that gives the dessert depth and softness to the creamy pecan and coconut frosting that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
- 1 (18.25 ounce) package German chocolate cake mix: This pre-made mix provides a rich cocoa flavor and moist texture, simplifying the baking process without sacrificing taste.
- 1 (5 ounce) can evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and body to the frosting for that signature smooth feel.
- 1 cup flaked coconut: Essential for the classic texture and sweetness in the frosting.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the coconut perfectly.
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine: Adds richness to the frosting and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the frosting without overpowering the other flavors.
- 4 egg yolks: These help thicken and enrich the frosting for a custard-like consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A little depth of warm vanilla rounds out the frosting’s flavor beautifully.
How to Make German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so that your cake doesn’t stick and comes out easily once baked. Then, mix the cake batter according to the package instructions of the German chocolate cake mix, pouring it evenly into your prepared pan to set the foundation for this delicious treat.
Step 2: Make the Classic Frosting
While the cake batter waits for the oven, it’s time to craft the iconic coconut-pecan topping. In a saucepan set over low heat, combine evaporated milk, flaked coconut, chopped pecans, butter, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture constantly to prevent curdling. You’ll know it’s ready once it thickens into a luscious, custard-like frosting that will become the star of this German Chocolate Cake Recipe.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Once your frosting is perfectly thick and creamy, spread it evenly right over the raw cake batter in your pan. This step is what makes the German Chocolate Cake Recipe special, with frosting that bakes into the cake forming a tender, caramelized topping. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring your cake is moist and cooked through.
Step 4: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, allow your cake to cool thoroughly in the pan. This will help the frosting set into that signature sticky, gooey layer that makes German chocolate cake such a beloved dessert. Once cooled, slice it up and get ready to enjoy every rich, nutty, and chocolaty bite.
How to Serve German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this German Chocolate Cake Recipe, consider garnishing each slice with a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans or a few delicate coconut flakes. For an indulgent finish, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a lovely contrast of textures and flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which adds a creamy, cooling element to balance the cake’s richness. If you prefer a beverage pairing, a hot cup of coffee or a robust black tea will perfectly complement the layered sweetness and richness of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the cake in individual ramekins with the frosting layered inside for a “deconstructed” German Chocolate Cake Recipe experience. Or present the cake with a scattering of fresh berries on the side to add freshness and a splash of color that brightens up the presentation wonderfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover German chocolate cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days; beyond that, refrigeration is best to preserve freshness. The frosting might firm up slightly in the fridge, but it will remain delicious, so just bring the cake back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this German Chocolate Cake Recipe to enjoy later. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It stays delicious for up to three months. When ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge and let it come to room temperature for a moist, flavorful slice.
Reheating
If you want to warm a slice, gently reheat it in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a warm oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes. This will soften the frosting slightly and bring out the comforting flavors of the chocolate and coconut mixture once more.
FAQs
Can I make German Chocolate Cake Recipe from scratch instead of using a cake mix?
Absolutely! Making the cake layers from scratch can lend a more personalized touch, but the mix offers consistent results and simplicity. The luscious coconut-pecan frosting remains the heart of the recipe, whether you use mix or scratch-made cake layers.
Is German Chocolate Cake Recipe very sweet?
The cake has a balanced sweetness thanks to the rich chocolate base combined with the coconut and pecan frosting. It’s sweet enough to feel indulgent but not overwhelming, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Can I substitute nuts in the frosting?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of pecans or have allergies, toasted walnuts or even sliced almonds can be good alternatives. They add similar texture and a slightly different nutty flavor that still pairs beautifully with the coconut and caramel-like frosting.
How long does it take to bake this cake?
Once your batter and frosting are assembled in the pan, bake the cake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes. Remember to check for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I double this German Chocolate Cake Recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double the ingredients and bake in two pans or a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end to prevent overbaking. German Chocolate Cake Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that scales beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This German Chocolate Cake Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. From the seamless blend of rich chocolate to the irresistible coconut-pecan frosting, it’s a dessert that always makes people feel special. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or just because, give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients transform into something truly spectacular.
Print
German Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic German Chocolate Cake recipe features a moist chocolate cake base topped with a rich and gooey coconut-pecan frosting. The cake mix makes preparation straightforward, while the homemade coconut-pecan frosting adds traditional Southern charm. Perfect for celebrations or any dessert craving, this cake serves 12 with generous slices.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 (18.25 ounce) package German chocolate cake mix
- Additional ingredients as per cake mix package instructions (usually eggs, water, and oil)
For the Frosting:
- 1 (5 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cake Batter: Follow the instructions on the German chocolate cake mix package to make the cake batter. Once mixed, pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Make the Frosting: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the evaporated milk, flaked coconut, chopped pecans, butter or margarine, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly to prevent curdling and cook until the mixture thickens to a spreadable consistency.
- Apply Frosting: Evenly spread the warm coconut-pecan frosting mixture over the raw cake batter in the pan. This topping will bake together with the cake, forming a deliciously gooey layer.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs for best results when cooking the frosting to avoid curdling.
- For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the frosting.
- The frosting is quite hot and thick once cooked; spread carefully to avoid burns.
- Allow the cake to cool fully to let the frosting set properly.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
