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German Chocolate Cake Recipe Decadent And Rich 2025 10 15 200236 150x150 1

German Chocolate Cake

This German Chocolate Cake is a decadent treat with layers of moist chocolate cake and rich, creamy frosting that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine German
Servings 12 servings
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Optional Garnish

  • Chocolate ganache (extra pecans)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 350°F and grease two 8-inch pans.
  • In a bowl, whisk dry ingredients together (flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt).
  • In another bowl, mix wet ingredients (eggs, buttermilk, oil, vanilla). Combine this with the dry mix and add boiling water.
  • Divide the batter into the greased pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let cool completely.

Frosting

  • For the frosting, cook evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter over medium heat for 8–10 minutes.
  • Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans, then adjust the sweetness to your liking. Allow to cool.

Assembly

  • Once cooled, frost the cake layers and assemble them on a white ceramic stand.
  • Garnish with extra pecans and serve alongside your favorite coffee!

Notes

Always measure your flour correctly; use the spoon and level method for best results. Replace buttermilk with yogurt or milk mixed with a little vinegar in a pinch! Consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the frosting for extra flavor.
Keyword Chocolate Cake, Decadent Cake, Dessert Recipe, easy cake recipe, German Chocolate Cake