German Chocolate Cake: A Classic, Decadent Dessert

If you love rich chocolate cake, creamy coconut-pecan filling, and luscious chocolate frosting, then German Chocolate Cake is the ultimate indulgence. This iconic dessert isn’t actually from Germany—it was named after Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, developed by Samuel German in the 19th century.

With its moist chocolate cake layers, sweet caramelized coconut filling, and a silky chocolate ganache, this cake is pure decadence.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

✅ Classic & Timeless – A well-loved recipe that’s been a favorite for generations.
✅ Ultra Moist & Rich – The perfect balance of chocolate, coconut, and caramel flavors.
✅ Great for Special Occasions – Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and celebrations.
✅ Homemade Goodness – Tastes way better than store-bought German Chocolate Cake!
✅ Impressively Beautiful – Looks stunning on any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chocolate Cake

½ cup boiling water
4 ounces sweet cooking German chocolate, chopped
2 cups sugar
1 cup butter, softened
4 large eggs, separated
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups cake flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk

For the Coconut-Pecan Filling

1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup sugar
3 large egg yolks
½ cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Frosting

1 cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch cake pans.
Pour boiling water over the chopped German chocolate, stirring until smooth.
In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and melted chocolate.
In another bowl, sift together cake flour, baking soda, and salt.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the chocolate mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling

In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 10-12 minutes, until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
Let cool before spreading onto the cake layers.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Frosting

In a bowl, beat butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add more cream if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread ⅓ of the coconut-pecan filling over it.
Repeat with the second layer and more filling.
Top with the final cake layer and cover the sides with chocolate frosting.
Use the remaining coconut-pecan filling for the top of the cake.

(💡 For an extra stunning cake, drizzle melted chocolate ganache over the top!)

Step 6: Slice & Enjoy!

Let the cake set for 30 minutes before slicing. Serve and watch it disappear!

Serving Ideas & Pairings

🍨 With Vanilla Ice Cream – A creamy contrast to the rich cake.
☕ With a Cup of Coffee – The perfect afternoon treat.
🍷 With Dessert Wine – A sweet Moscato or Port wine pairs beautifully.
🍫 With Extra Chocolate Drizzle – Because you can never have too much chocolate!

Tips for the Best German Chocolate Cake

🔹 Use Cake Flour – Creates a softer, lighter crumb than all-purpose flour.
🔹 Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth, well-mixed batter.
🔹 Fold Egg Whites Gently – Keeps the cake light and airy.
🔹 Cool Completely Before Frosting – Prevents melting or sliding layers.
🔹 Store Properly – Cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days for freshness.

Fun Variations to Try

🍫 Double Chocolate German Cake – Add chocolate chips to the batter.
🥥 Extra Coconut Flavor – Add ½ teaspoon coconut extract to the filling.
🔥 Spiced Chocolate Cake – Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for warmth.
☕ Mocha German Cake – Mix 1 teaspoon espresso powder into the frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! The cake layers can be baked 1 day ahead and stored at room temperature. The frosting and filling can also be made in advance and refrigerated.

Can I Freeze German Chocolate Cake?

Absolutely! Wrap individual cake layers or fully assembled cake in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What’s the Difference Between German Chocolate Cake & Regular Chocolate Cake?

German Chocolate Cake is lighter, sweeter, and features a coconut-pecan filling.
Regular Chocolate Cake is richer and often paired with buttercream or ganache.

Do I Have to Use German Chocolate?

No, but Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate gives it an authentic flavor. You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate, but the cake will be less sweet.

Final Thoughts

This homemade German Chocolate Cake is a showstopper with its moist chocolate layers, gooey coconut-pecan filling, and silky chocolate frosting. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or special celebration, this timeless classic never disappoints.

Try this decadent recipe today—it’s chocolate heaven in every bite!