Description
A rich and decadent chocolate cake layered with a creamy coconut-pecan filling, this traditional German Chocolate Cake is perfect for celebrations or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 4 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate (melted and cooled)
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Mix in vanilla extract and melted chocolate.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry mix.
- Stir in boiling water slowly until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool the cake layers completely.
- For the filling, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (10–12 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let cool.
- Assemble the cake by spreading filling between layers and on top, leaving sides bare.
Notes
- Add chocolate ganache between layers for extra richness.
- Omit pecans and double coconut for a nut-free version.
- Convert to a sheet cake using a 9×13-inch pan.
- Use dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Turn into cupcakes with a dollop of filling on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 46g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 72g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
