Name: German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: For Cake:; 2 cups granulated sugar; ½ cup canola oil; 1 cup milk; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla; 1¾ cup all purpose flour; ¾ cup cocoa; 2 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 cup Hot coffee; For Frosting:; 1 cup cream; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 egg yolks; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup pecans; 1 tsp vanilla extract; For Ganache:; 100 g dark chocolate; ¼ cup heavy cream

Indulge in the rich flavors of a classic German chocolate cake. This delightful dessert combines a moist chocolate base with a luscious coconut pecan frosting and a smooth chocolate ganache, creating a heavenly treat for any occasion.

Photos of German Chocolate Cake Recipe

When gathering ingredients, note that sweetened shredded coconut and pecans might not always be in your pantry, so you may need to visit the baking or nut sections at the supermarket. Additionally, ensure you have dark chocolate and heavy cream for the ganache.

Ingredients For German Chocolate Cake

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake and frosting.

Canola oil: Provides moisture and richness to the cake.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the batter.

Eggs: Binds ingredients and provides structure.

Vanilla: Enhances the flavor of both cake and frosting.

All purpose flour: Forms the base structure of the cake.

Cocoa: Gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor.

Baking soda: Helps the cake rise.

Salt: Enhances overall flavor.

Baking powder: Works with baking soda to help the cake rise.

Hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Cream: Used in the frosting and ganache for richness.

Egg yolks: Adds richness to the frosting.

Unsalted butter: Adds flavor and richness to the frosting.

Sweetened shredded coconut: Key ingredient for the frosting for texture and flavor.

Pecans: Adds crunch and flavor to the frosting.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting's flavor.

Dark chocolate: Used in ganache for a rich chocolate layer.

Heavy cream: Combines with chocolate for smooth ganache.

One reader, Dionisio Mather says:

This German chocolate cake recipe is a winner! The cake is moist and rich, and the coconut pecan frosting adds the perfect touch of sweetness. The ganache is a delightful bonus. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious!

Dionisio Mather

Techniques Required for Making German Chocolate Cake

How to grease and flour cake pans: Coat the cake pans with a thin layer of grease (such as butter or oil) and then dust them with flour, tapping out any excess to ensure the cakes do not stick. How to whisk ingredients: Use a whisk to combine ingredients until smooth and well-mixed, ensuring there are no lumps. How to divide batter evenly: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans, distributing it as evenly as possible to ensure uniform baking. How to check cake doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out dry or with moist crumbs, the cake is done. How to cook frosting: Heat the mixture of cream, sugar, and egg yolks with butter over medium heat, whisking often until it thickens. How to cool frosting quickly: Transfer the frosting to a clean bowl and place it in the refrigerator, stirring often to reach a spreadable consistency. How to melt chocolate and cream: Combine chocolate and cream in a small pot over low heat, stirring frequently until melted and smooth. How to assemble a layered cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread frosting, repeat with remaining layers, and finish with ganache and frosting as directed.

How To Make German Chocolate Cake

This German chocolate cake recipe is a must-try for any chocolate lover. It’s moist chocolate cake and rich chocolate ganache with a coconut-pecan frosting.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cake:

2cupsgranulated sugar
½cupcanola oil
1cupmilk
2eggs
1tspvanilla
1¾cupall purpose flour,fluffed and leveled
¾cupcocoa
2tspbaking soda
1tspsalt
1tspbaking powder
1cuphot coffee,or water

For Frosting:

1cupcream,or evaporated milk
1cupgranulated sugar
3egg yolks
½cupunsalted butter
1½cupssweetened shredded coconut
1cuppecans,finely chopped
1tspvanilla extract

For Ganache:

100gdark chocolate,about ¾ cup chopped
¼cupheavy cream

Instructions

Cake:

Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, tapping firmly to remove any excess flour once coated. Turn the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, and oil until combined.
Add milk, eggs, and vanilla and whisk until smooth.
Add flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and baking powder and whisk until combined.
Slowly stir in hot coffee until batter is smooth.
Divide evenly between prepared pans and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out dry or with moist crumbs. Set aside to cool completely.

Frosting:

In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, sugar, and egg yolks.
Add butter, and cook over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes, whisking often, until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla.
Let cool completely to room temperature (to a spreadable consistency) before frosting cooled cakes. If you need to cool quickly, pour into a clean bowl and place in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring often.

Ganache & Assembly:

In a small pot, melt chocolate and cream together over low heat, stirring often. Set aside to cool slightly.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Top with ⅓ of the coconut pecan frosting.
Repeat with the remaining two layers, spreading chocolate ganache on the top cake layer and letting set completely before topping with remaining frosting. Let chocolate cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 706.74kcal
Fat: 42.70g
Saturated Fat: 18.83g
Trans Fat: 0.35g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.53g
Carbohydrates: 79.55g
Fiber: 4.71g
Sugar: 59.25g
Protein: 7.36g
Cholesterol: 119.77mg
Sodium: 459.54mg
Calcium: 102.23mg
Potassium: 307.03mg
Iron: 3.32mg
Vitamin A: 200.65µg
Vitamin C: 0.32mg

Helpful Technique Tip for German Chocolate Cake Recipe

When making the frosting, ensure you whisk the cream, sugar, and egg yolks continuously while cooking over medium heat. This helps prevent the mixture from curdling and ensures a smooth, thickened consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to save time during the baking process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can speed up the process of combining cake batter and frosting ingredients.

Make frosting ahead: Prepare the coconut pecan frosting a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Quick cool cakes: Place cake layers in the freezer for a few minutes to cool them quickly before frosting.

Microwave ganache: Melt the chocolate and cream in the microwave in short bursts to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For German Chocolate Cake Recipe

granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness level and adds a slight caramel flavor.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil has a neutral flavor and similar fat content, making it a good replacement.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan substitute.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cake denser.
cocoa - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder has a similar color and sweetness but a different flavor profile.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder as baking soda, but it may slightly alter the texture.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same amount and provides a slightly different mineral content.
baking powder - Substitute with self-rising flour: Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, so adjust other ingredients accordingly.
hot coffee - Substitute with hot water: Hot water can be used if you want to avoid caffeine, though it will lack the coffee flavor.
cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative that adds a slight coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a different flavor and is less processed, but adjust the liquid content in the recipe.
egg yolks - Substitute with cornstarch: Use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water per egg yolk for thickening.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a non-dairy alternative with a similar fat content.
sweetened shredded coconut - Substitute with unsweetened shredded coconut: Add a bit more sugar to compensate for the lack of sweetness.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and flavor profile.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract provides a different but complementary flavor.
dark chocolate - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate has a similar texture but is slightly sweeter.
heavy cream - Substitute with evaporated milk: Evaporated milk has a similar consistency but is less rich.

Presentation Ideas for German Chocolate Cake

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are fresh and of the highest quality, especially the dark chocolate, pecans, and sweetened shredded coconut.
Layer the cake precisely: Carefully stack the cake layers with an even spread of coconut pecan frosting between each layer to create a uniform and visually appealing structure.
Smooth the frosting: Use a spatula to evenly spread the coconut pecan frosting and chocolate ganache for a sleek and professional finish.
Garnish with finesse: Decorate the top layer with a delicate sprinkle of shredded coconut and finely chopped pecans to add texture and visual appeal.
Serve on elegant plates: Present the cake slices on pristine, white plates to highlight the rich colors of the chocolate cake and frosting.
Add a touch of gold: For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding edible gold leaf accents to the top of the cake.
Use precise cuts: Slice the cake with a hot, clean knife to ensure each piece is perfectly cut, showcasing the distinct layers.
Complement with a beverage: Serve with a side of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of milk to enhance the flavors of the German chocolate cake.
Highlight the textures: Emphasize the contrast between the moist cake and the crunchy pecans and coconut in the frosting.
Create a balanced presentation: Ensure the plate is balanced with the cake slice as the focal point, perhaps adding a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added elegance.

Essential Tools for Making German Chocolate Cake

Oven: Used to bake the cake layers at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
8-inch round cake pans: Three pans are needed to bake the cake layers evenly.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the cake batter and ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the cake ingredients.
Medium saucepan: Used to cook the frosting mixture until it thickens.
Small pot: Used to melt the chocolate and cream together for the ganache.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the frosting and ganache smoothly on the cake layers.
Toothpick: Used to check the doneness of the cake layers by inserting it into the center.
Cooling rack: Allows the cake layers to cool completely before frosting.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring both dry and liquid ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract, baking soda, and baking powder.
Serving plate: Used to assemble and serve the finished cake.
Refrigerator: Can be used to cool the frosting quickly if needed.
Knife: Useful for slicing the cake once it is assembled and ready to serve.

Storing and Freezing German Chocolate Cake

Let the german chocolate cake cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
To store the cake, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cake:
- Wrap the cooled cake layers individually in plastic wrap, making sure to cover them tightly and remove any excess air.
- Place the wrapped layers in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- When ready to serve, thaw the cake layers in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
If you have leftover frosted cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
To freeze frosted cake slices, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
If you have leftover coconut pecan frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before using.

How To Reheat German Chocolate Cake Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover german chocolate cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through. The foil will help prevent the cake from drying out while it reheats. This method works best for larger pieces of cake.
For smaller pieces or individual slices, you can use the microwave. Place the cake slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on medium power for 30-45 seconds. If the cake isn't warm enough, continue heating it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it can become rubbery or dry.
If you want to maintain the texture of the frosting and keep it from melting, you can use a steamer basket. Boil a pot of water, place the cake in a steamer basket above the water, and cover it with a lid. Steam the cake for 5-10 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method will gently warm the cake without melting the chocolate ganache or coconut pecan frosting.
For a quicker option, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cake slice on a small baking sheet or piece of aluminum foil. Heat the cake for 5-7 minutes, or until it's warmed to your liking. Keep an eye on the cake to ensure it doesn't burn or dry out.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover german chocolate cake. Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) and place the cake slice in the basket. Heat the cake for 3-5 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method will give you a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and tender.

Interesting Fact About German Chocolate Cake

A random fact about this German chocolate cake recipe is that it actually originated in the United States, not Germany. The name comes from Samuel German, who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for the Baker's Chocolate Company in 1852.

Is Making German Chocolate Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

This German chocolate cake recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cocoa, and eggs, are common pantry staples, while items like sweetened shredded coconut and pecans might be pricier. The ganache adds a touch of luxury but is manageable. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20 USD. Considering the quality and indulgence, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10.

Is German Chocolate Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This German chocolate cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The cake itself is high in sugar and fat, with the addition of oil, milk, and eggs. The frosting is also rich in sugar, cream, and butter, which can contribute to high calorie and fat content. The use of dark chocolate in the ganache is a slightly healthier choice compared to milk chocolate, but the overall recipe still leans towards being an indulgent treat rather than a nutritious snack.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter and frosting, or replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
Replace some of the oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to reduce the fat content
Use low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative in the cake batter
Opt for a lighter frosting, such as a whipped cream cheese frosting, or reduce the amount of frosting used
Incorporate more nuts and unsweetened coconut into the frosting for added nutrients and fiber
Serve smaller portion sizes to control calorie intake

Editor's Opinion on This German Chocolate Cake Recipe

This German chocolate cake recipe is a delightful blend of rich, moist cake layers and a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. The use of hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, making the cake deeply flavorful. The frosting, with its creamy texture and nutty sweetness, complements the cake perfectly. The addition of a chocolate ganache adds a luxurious touch, making it an indulgent treat. However, the recipe could benefit from more detailed instructions on cooling times and assembly to ensure perfect results. Overall, it's a decadent dessert that promises to impress.

Enhance Your German Chocolate Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts, perfectly caramelized and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the German Chocolate Cake, creating a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Their smooth texture and rich flavor provide a delightful counterpoint to the decadent layers of the cake. The subtle hint of garlic adds a savory note that complements the sweetness of the dessert.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Crisp and tender grilled asparagus, kissed by the grill and brightened with a sprinkle of lemon zest, offers a refreshing and light side. The citrusy zing cuts through the richness of the German Chocolate Cake, making each bite feel like a new adventure.

Mixed Berry Salad with Mint: A vibrant mixed berry salad, featuring a medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, tossed with fresh mint leaves. This fruity delight adds a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the cake, making it a perfect palate cleanser.

Butternut Squash Soup: Silky and smooth butternut squash soup, with its warm, comforting flavors, provides a cozy companion to the German Chocolate Cake. The natural sweetness of the squash and the hint of nutmeg create a delightful prelude to the dessert, making each spoonful a comforting embrace.

Alternative Recipes Similar to German Chocolate Cake

Black Forest Cake: Dive into the rich and decadent layers of chocolate cake filled with luscious cherry filling and topped with whipped cream. This classic German dessert is perfect for any special occasion.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the gooey, molten center of this chocolate lover's dream. Each bite of this warm dessert reveals a rich, flowing chocolate ganache that pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Red Velvet Cake: Experience the velvety texture and subtle cocoa flavor of this iconic dessert. Topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Carrot Cake: Enjoy the moist and flavorful layers of this vegetable-infused cake, packed with grated carrots, walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon. Finished with a creamy cream cheese frosting, it's a delightful treat for any time of the year.

Tiramisu: Savor the classic Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. This no-bake treat is perfect for impressing guests.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with German Chocolate Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These delightful bites are then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky filling, making them an irresistible start to any meal. Serve them hot, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Picture crispy slices of baguette topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. This classic Italian appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for entertaining guests.

Main Courses:

Beef Wellington: Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that combines tender beef fillet, mushroom duxelles, and prosciutto, all wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry. The beef is seared to lock in the juices, then coated with a savory mushroom mixture and wrapped in prosciutto. The entire package is then encased in puff pastry and baked to perfection. Serve with a rich red wine sauce and roasted vegetables for an unforgettable dining experience.

Chicken Marsala: Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender chicken breasts sautéed in a rich Marsala wine sauce. The chicken is lightly coated in flour and pan-fried until golden brown, then simmered in a sauce made from Marsala wine, mushrooms, and butter. The result is a flavorful, aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Why trust this German Chocolate Cake Recipe:

This German chocolate cake recipe is a trusted classic, combining rich cocoa and hot coffee for a moist, flavorful cake. The coconut pecan frosting adds a delightful texture and sweetness, while the dark chocolate ganache provides a luxurious finish. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With clear instructions and high-quality ingredients like unsalted butter and sweetened shredded coconut, this recipe guarantees a delicious and impressive dessert every time. Trust in the tried-and-true methods and enjoy a slice of indulgence.

Want to share your experience making this classic German Chocolate Cake recipe or have any tips to perfect it? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola oil?

Yes, you can substitute canola oil with vegetable oil or even melted coconut oil. Just keep in mind that coconut oil might add a slight coconut flavor to the cake.

Do I have to use hot coffee in the cake batter?

The hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and helps dissolve the cocoa powder. If you prefer not to use coffee, you can substitute it with hot water or hot milk.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the frosting a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the cake.

What if I don't have three 8-inch cake pans?

No worries! You can use two 9-inch pans instead. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes and keep an eye on the cakes to ensure they don't overbake.

How do I store the finished cake?

You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.