About This Recipe

This German Chocolate Cake is a true showstopper — rich, moist chocolate layers generously topped with a gooey coconut-pecan frosting. It’s a beloved classic that delivers the perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor and caramelized nutty sweetness in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water (or hot coffee for a richer flavor)

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Make the Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Incorporate Hot Water: Slowly add the hot water or coffee. Batter will be thin—this is normal.
5. Bake: Divide batter evenly into the pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let layers cool 10 minutes in the pans, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

1. Cook Custard: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
2. Thicken: Stir constantly for 10–12 minutes, until the mixture thickens and coats a spoon.
3. Finish: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Cool to room temperature.

Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cooled cake layer on a stand and spread ⅓ of the frosting on top.
2. Repeat with the second and third layers.
3. Leave the sides bare for a classic look or frost with chocolate ganache if desired.

Pro Tips

• Use hot coffee instead of water for deeper chocolate flavor.
• Ensure the frosting is completely cool before spreading to prevent sliding.
• This cake keeps well covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your German Chocolate Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or when you simply crave something special!