German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Introduction

German Chocolate Cake is a beloved classic dessert that’s rich, moist, and topped with its signature coconut-pecan frosting. Despite its name, this cake is uniquely American, made famous by Baker’s brand chocolate in the 1950s.

German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is a showstopper. With its layers of tender chocolate cake and creamy frosting, Baker’s German Chocolate Cake is a treat that’s guaranteed to impress.

For a nut-free dessert alternative, explore our chocolate pound cake recipe for a rich chocolate treat without nuts.

Ingredients for German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Key Ingredients for the Cake Batter

  1. Baker’s German Chocolate Cake Recipe :
    • The star ingredient, this mild and slightly sweet chocolate provides the classic flavor.
    • Melt 4 ounces of Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate for the batter.
  2. Sugar:
    • Granulated sugar adds sweetness and structure to the cake.
  3. Butter:
    • Unsalted butter ensures the cake is rich and moist.
  4. Eggs:
    • Separate the yolks and whites; the yolks add richness, while whipped egg whites contribute to the cake’s light texture.
  5. Flour:
    • Use all-purpose flour to provide the cake’s structure.
  6. Buttermilk:
    • Adds tanginess and moisture, creating a tender crumb.
  7. Vanilla Extract:
    • Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

Key Ingredients for Coconut-Pecan Frosting

  1. Evaporated Milk:
    • Creates the creamy base for the frosting.
  2. Butter:
    • Adds richness and helps thicken the frosting.
  3. Sugar:
    • Brown sugar is often used for its deep, caramel flavor.
  4. Egg Yolks:
    • Cooked in the frosting for a silky texture.
  5. Shredded Coconut:
    • Sweetened shredded coconut adds texture and flavor.
  6. Chopped Pecans:
    • Toasted pecans add crunch and complement the coconut.

Tips for Choosing Ingredients

  1. Chocolate:
    • For the authentic flavor, use Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate. Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate if necessary, but adjust sugar to taste.
  2. Coconut and Pecans:
    • Use fresh, high-quality shredded coconut and pecans for the best flavor and texture. Toasting the pecans enhances their nuttiness.
  3. Butter and Eggs:
    • Always use unsalted butter and room-temperature eggs for smoother mixing and consistent results.

These ingredients come together to create the iconic layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy coconut-pecan frosting that define Baker’s German Chocolate Cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions for German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Ingredients

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the Chocolate:
    • Melt 4 ounces of Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave (in 20-second intervals). Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

  1. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add Egg Yolks:
    • Beat in 4 egg yolks, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
  3. Add Melted Chocolate and Vanilla:
    • Mix in the cooled melted chocolate and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  4. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, combine 2½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
    • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Stp 3: Whip the Egg Whites

  1. Beat to Stiff Peaks:
    • In a clean bowl, beat the 4 reserved egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  2. Fold into Batter:
    • Gently fold the egg whites into the batter to keep it light and airy.

Stp 4: Bake the Cakes

  1. Divide Batter Evenly:
    • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
  2. Bake:
    • Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool:
    • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ste 5: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

  1. Cook the Mixture:
    • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of evaporated milk, 1 cup of granulated sugar or brown sugar, 3 egg yolks, and ½ cup of unsalted butter. Stir constantly for 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  2. Add Coconut and Pecans:
    • Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of sweetened shredded coconut, 1 cup of chopped pecans, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Cool to room temperature.

Ste 6: Assemble the Cake

  1. Layer the Cake:
    • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of coconut-pecan frosting on top. Repeat with the second and third layers.
  2. Frost the Top:
    • Spread the remaining frosting evenly on the top of the cake. You can leave the sides bare or frost them if desired.
German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Tips for Perfect German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ensuring Moist and Tender Cake Layers

  1. Don’t Overmix the Batter:
    • Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough.
  2. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients:
    • Room-temperature butter, eggs, and buttermilk help create a smooth batter and even texture.
  3. Check for Doneness:
    • Start checking the cakes at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

Perfecting the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

  1. Cook the Mixture Slowly:
    • Stir constantly over medium heat to prevent scorching and achieve a thick, creamy consistency.
  2. Let the Frosting Cool:
    • Ensure the frosting is at room temperature before spreading it on the cake to avoid runniness.
  3. Toast the Pecans:
    • Toast chopped pecans in a dry skillet or oven for 5–7 minutes to enhance their flavor and crunch.

Assembling the Cake Neatly

  1. Level the Cake Layers:
    • Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cakes if they are domed, creating an even surface for layering.
  2. Use a Cake Stand:
    • Place the first layer on a cake stand for easier assembly and frosting.
  3. Chill Between Layers:
    • For extra stability, chill each frosted layer for 10–15 minutes before adding the next layer.

Avoiding Common Issues

  1. Dry Cake:
    • Measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Avoid overbaking.
  2. Runny Frosting:
    • If the frosting is too thin, cook it a little longer until it thickens. Be sure to let it cool completely before using.
  3. Cake Sliding:
    • If the layers slide while assembling, chill the cake for 20 minutes before continuing.

These tips ensure that your Baker’s German Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly moist, flavorful, and visually stunning every time.

Variations and Customizations for German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Alternatives

  1. Gluten-Free German Chocolate Cake:
    • Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your baking soda and chocolate are gluten-free.
  2. Dairy-Free German Chocolate Cake:
    • Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use almond milk or oat milk instead of buttermilk and evaporated milk. Choose dairy-free chocolate.

Turning the Recipe into Cupcakes or Sheet Cakes

  1. Cupcakes:
    • Divide the batter into lined cupcake tins, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Top each cupcake with a dollop of coconut-pecan frosting.
  2. Sheet Cake:
    • Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes. Spread the coconut-pecan frosting evenly over the top once cooled.

Adding Extra Flavors

  1. Espresso German Chocolate Cake:
    • Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the melted chocolate for a deeper, more complex flavor.
  2. Bourbon-Infused Frosting:
    • Stir 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon into the coconut-pecan frosting for a sophisticated twist.
  3. Orange-Chocolate Cake:
    • Mix in the zest of one orange to the batter for a fresh, citrusy note.

Decorating Ideas

  1. Drizzle with Chocolate Ganache:
    • For added decadence, drizzle melted dark chocolate or ganache over the assembled cake.
  2. Add a Garnish:
    • Top the cake with whole toasted pecans, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, or chocolate curls for a beautiful finish.
  3. Layer with Whipped Ganache:
    • Frost the sides of the cake with chocolate whipped ganache for an extra layer of flavor and smooth finish.

These variations and customizations allow you to adapt the Baker’s German Chocolate Cake recipe to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or a specific occasion.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Ideas for German Chocolate Cake

  1. With Ice Cream:
    • Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or coconut ice cream to complement the flavors of the cake.
  2. Topped with Whipped Cream:
    • A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast to the rich cake and frosting.
  3. With Fresh Fruit:
    • Serve alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a mixed fruit medley for a refreshing touch.

Beverage Pairings

  1. Coffee or Espresso:
    • The bold flavors of coffee pair perfectly with the sweetness of German chocolate cake. Consider serving with a latte, cappuccino, or espresso shot.
  2. Milk:
    • A classic glass of cold milk balances the rich and sweet flavors of the cake.
  3. Dessert Wines or Liqueurs:
    • Pair with a sweet wine like Port or a nutty liqueur such as Amaretto for an indulgent finish.

Creative Ways to Serve Leftovers

  1. Cake Trifles:
    • Layer chunks of leftover cake with whipped cream, chocolate pudding, or fruit in a glass for a stunning trifle dessert.
  2. Cake Pops:
    • Crumble leftover cake and mix with frosting to form cake balls. Dip in melted chocolate and let set for an easy treat.
  3. Toasted Cake Slices:
    • Lightly toast slices of cake in a nonstick pan or toaster oven and serve warm with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.

Presentation Tips

  1. Use a Cake Stand:
    • Display the cake on a cake stand for a polished look, perfect for parties or gatherings.
  2. Slice Cleanly:
    • Use a serrated knife to cut clean slices, wiping the blade with a damp cloth between cuts for a neat presentation.
  3. Add a Sprinkle of Garnish:
    • Sprinkle extra shredded coconut or finely chopped pecans on each plate for a decorative touch.

These serving ideas elevate Baker’s German Chocolate Cake into a versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether casual or formal.

German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Is It Called German Chocolate Cake?

Despite its name, German chocolate cake is not from Germany. It’s named after Samuel German, who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for the Baker’s Chocolate Company in the 1850s. This chocolate, called “German’s Sweet Chocolate,” became the key ingredient in the cake, which gained popularity in the United States after a recipe was published in the 1950s.

Can I Make Baker’s German Chocolate Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance:

  1. Bake the Cake Layers:
    • Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Make the Frosting:
    • Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before assembling the cake.
  3. Assemble Before Serving:
    • Assemble and frost the cake the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor.

How Do I Store German Chocolate Cake?

  1. At Room Temperature:
    • Cover the cake with a dome or plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  2. In the Refrigerator:
    • For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
  3. Freezing:
    • Wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Why Is My Cake Dry or Crumbly?

  1. Overbaking:
    • Baking too long or at a temperature that’s too high can dry out the cake. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  2. Incorrect Measurements:
    • Adding too much flour or too little liquid can lead to a dry texture. Always measure ingredients carefully.
  3. Under-mixing the Egg Whites:
    • Properly whipped and folded egg whites help keep the cake light and moist.

Can I Use a Different Frosting?

While the coconut-pecan frosting is iconic, you can use other frostings for a twist:

  1. Chocolate Buttercream:
    • Rich and creamy, this frosting enhances the chocolate flavor.
  2. Cream Cheese Frosting:
    • A tangy option that pairs well with the sweet chocolate cake.
  3. Whipped Ganache:
    • For an ultra-chocolatey finish, spread whipped chocolate ganache over the cake layers.

These FAQs address common questions and offer practical solutions to ensure your Baker’s German Chocolate Cake is a success every time.

Conclusion

Baker’s German Chocolate Cake is a timeless dessert that brings together layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy coconut-pecan frosting for a truly indulgent treat. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

With easy-to-follow steps, tips for perfection, and versatile variations, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore creative twists like cupcakes, sheet cakes, or alternative frostings, German chocolate cake is sure to impress and delight your family and friends.

So, grab your Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, preheat your oven, and create a masterpiece that celebrates the rich history and deliciousness of this iconic cake.

German Chocolate Cake is a delightful dessert for every occasion. With its tender layers and creamy frosting, it’s a surefire way to impress your guests. Explore our other sweet creations, like the peach cobbler recipe with cake mix, for more baking inspiration. Enjoy every bite!

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