Print

Traditional German Chocolate Cake

Print Recipe

A classic dessert featuring rich chocolate layers and a velvety, nutty frosting with toasted pecans and sweet shredded coconut.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup boiling water
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups heavy cream (or evaporated milk)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (for frosting)
  • 6 large egg yolks (for frosting)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for frosting)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 2 cups pecans (toasted and finely chopped)
  • 4 cups sweetened shredded coconut (toasted)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a small bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and boiling water. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and both sugars until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
  5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
  6. Gradually add flour mixture alternately with sour cream, starting and ending with flour. Fold in the cooled chocolate mixture.
  7. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
  8. For frosting, combine heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, pecans, and coconut. Cool to room temperature.
  9. Once cake layers are cool, frost between layers and on top and sides.
  10. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

Level cake layers before frosting for an even finish. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Keywords: German Chocolate Cake, dessert, chocolate cake, festive cake

Find it online: https://recipehappy.com/traditional-german-chocolate-cake/