Family German Chocolate Cake
This Family German Chocolate Cake is a show-stopping dessert made with rich chocolate cake layers and a sweet coconut-pecan frosting. A Southern classic that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, and any celebration!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water or hot coffee
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease/flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth, then stir in hot water or coffee.
- Divide batter evenly among pans and bake 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and golden (about 12 minutes).
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Cool to room temperature.
- Assemble cake by layering frosting between each layer and on top. Frost sides if desired.
- Chill for 1 hour before slicing to set the frosting.
Notes
- Use coffee instead of water to deepen chocolate flavor.
- Toast pecans for extra nuttiness.
- Level cake layers with a serrated knife for a more polished presentation.
- Cake and frosting can be made a day ahead and stored separately.