German Chocolate Cake

🍫 German Chocolate Cake

A rich, decadent cake with moist chocolate layers and a signature coconut–pecan frosting — a classic favorite.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 4 oz German sweet chocolate (or semisweet), chopped

• 1/2 cup boiling water

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, separated

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

• 1 cup evaporated milk

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter

• 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten

• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut

• 1 cup chopped pecans

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Melt German chocolate in boiling water; set aside to cool.

3. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolks, one at a time, then vanilla.

4. Mix in melted chocolate.

5. Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk to the chocolate mixture, beginning and ending with flour.

6. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold gently into batter.

7. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

2️⃣ Make the Frosting

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks.

2. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (~10 minutes).

3. Remove from heat; stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla. Let cool slightly.

3️⃣ Assemble the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a portion of frosting over it.

• Repeat with second layer. Top with the third layer.

• Spread remaining frosting over the top and sides.

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🌟 Tips for Success

• Chill the frosting slightly before spreading to prevent it from sliding.

• For extra moisture, brush cake layers with a simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water).

• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

This classic German Chocolate Cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

If you want, I can also give a quick 2-layer version with chocolate ganache topping for a faster, equally delicious version.