German Chocolate Cake Recipe
German Chocolate Cake, despite its name, is a quintessentially American dessert with a rich history and an even richer taste. This decadent cake is known for its layers of moist chocolate cake filled and topped with a distinctive coconut-pecan frosting.
Contrary to popular belief, the cake doesn’t have German origins; it’s named after Samuel German, an English-American chocolate maker who developed a type of sweet baking chocolate for the Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852.
The cake as we know it today was created by Mrs. George Clay, a homemaker from Dallas, Texas. Her recipe was published in a Dallas newspaper in 1957 and quickly became a national sensation.
The combination of sweet chocolate cake with the unique coconut-pecan frosting created a flavor profile that was irresistible to many, and it has remained a beloved dessert ever since.
This recipe yields a classic German Chocolate Cake that balances the sweetness of the frosting with a rich, not-too-sweet chocolate cake.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious treat, this cake is sure to impress with its complex flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Coconut Pecan Frosting:
- 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups (120g) shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans
For the Chocolate Ganache (optional):
- 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
How to Make:
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and vanilla.
Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10-12 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
Allow to cool until spreadable, stirring occasionally.
Optional Chocolate Ganache:
Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
Heat cream until just simmering, then pour over chocolate chips.
Let stand for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread with 1/3 of the coconut-pecan frosting.
Repeat with the second and third layers.
If using, drizzle chocolate ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to allow the frosting to set.
Chef’s Notes:
Coffee Enhancement: The coffee in the cake batter enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. For a non-caffeinated version, you can use decaf coffee or hot water.
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Frosting Consistency: The coconut-pecan frosting will thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick to spread, you can gently reheat it.
Nut Allergies: For those with nut allergies, the pecans can be omitted from the frosting.
Cake Texture: For an extra moist cake, brush each layer with simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until sugar dissolves) before adding the frosting.
Make-Ahead Tips: The cake layers can be baked a day in advance, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and stored at room temperature. The frosting can also be made ahead and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before using.
Storage: Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing: Unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent treat, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Decoration: For a finishing touch, consider garnishing the cake with additional chopped pecans or chocolate shavings.
Nutritional Value:
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. The following nutritional information is for one slice, assuming the cake is cut into 12 slices:
- Calories: 650-700
- Total Fat: 35-40g
- Saturated Fat: 15-18g
- Cholesterol: 90-100mg
- Sodium: 400-450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 80-85g
- Dietary Fiber: 4-5g
- Sugars: 60-65g
- Protein: 8-10g
German Chocolate Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, it does offer some nutritional benefits:
Antioxidants: The cocoa powder and chocolate contain antioxidants that may have health benefits.
Fiber: The coconut and pecans provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.
Protein: Eggs and milk contribute protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
Minerals: Pecans are a good source of minerals like manganese and copper.
Despite these benefits, the cake is high in sugar and saturated fat, so it’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
Conclusion:
German Chocolate Cake stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation in American baking. Its unique combination of rich chocolate cake and sweet, nutty frosting has made it a beloved dessert for over half a century.
This cake is more than just a treat; it’s a piece of culinary history that continues to delight dessert lovers across generations.
The process of making a German Chocolate Cake from scratch is a labor of love that rewards the baker with a truly special dessert.
From crafting the moist chocolate layers to preparing the signature coconut-pecan frosting, each step offers an opportunity to engage with the rich tradition behind this iconic cake.
The result is a dessert that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort to those who enjoy it.
While German Chocolate Cake is undoubtedly an indulgence from a nutritional standpoint, it’s important to remember that food is not just about sustenance—it’s also about pleasure, celebration, and cultural connection.
The joy of sharing this luxurious cake with friends and family, the way it can elevate a simple gathering into a special occasion, has a value that goes beyond mere calories and nutrients.
For those mindful of their dietary intake, German Chocolate Cake can still be part of a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation. Its rich flavors mean that even a small slice can be deeply satisfying.
Additionally, the recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs, such as using alternative sweeteners or gluten-free flour, although these modifications may alter the traditional taste and texture.
In preparing and serving German Chocolate Cake, you’re not just creating a dessert—you’re participating in a culinary tradition that has brought joy to countless people over the years.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at this recipe for the first time, the process of creating this iconic cake is an adventure in itself.
The combination of chocolate cake, coconut, pecans, and optional ganache creates a symphony of flavors and textures that continues to captivate dessert enthusiasts of all ages.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on the delightful journey of creating your own German Chocolate Cake.
Whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday celebration, or simply to bring a touch of sweetness to an ordinary day, this cake is sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.
With its layers of flavor and its rich history, German Chocolate Cake is a dessert that not only satisfies the palate but also brings a sense of tradition and indulgence to any table it graces.
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