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Traditional German Chocolate Cake

Indulge in a slice of Traditional German Chocolate Cake, featuring layers of moist chocolate cake paired with a rich coconut-pecan frosting.

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
  • 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 the finely chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, and boiling water. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
  5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract until combined.
  6. Gradually add the flour mixture alternating with the sour cream, starting and finishing with flour. Fold in the melted chocolate mixture.
  7. Divide the batter among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
  8. For the frosting, combine heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, pecans, and coconut. Cool to room temperature.
  9. Once the cakes are cooled, layer them with frosting between each layer and frost the sides of the cake.
  10. Slice and serve.

Notes

Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days; refrigerate to extend freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: German chocolate cake, dessert, chocolate cake, coconut pecan frosting