Indulge in the rich flavors of this German Sweet Chocolate Cake. Moist chocolate cake layers are filled with a luscious coconut and pecan frosting, creating a truly decadent dessert. This classic homemade cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this easy recipe and enjoy the heavenly combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces German sweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups white sugar
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- Place the German sweet chocolate in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool.
- In a separate bowl, pour boiling water over the chocolate and stir until smooth. Set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir in the melted chocolate until well blended.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter until no streaks remain.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Tap the pans on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a saucepan, combine the chopped pecans, sweetened flaked coconut, and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 12 minutes.
- Once the frosting has thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Then spread the coconut pecan frosting between the cake layers and on top of the cake.
- Serve the German Sweet Chocolate Cake immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
German Sweet Chocolate Cake is not actually German. It was named after the brand of chocolate used in the original recipe, which was developed by German chocolate maker Samuel German.
The coconut pecan frosting used in this cake is also known as 'German Chocolate Frosting'.
German Sweet Chocolate Cake gained popularity in the United States after it was featured in a recipe contest sponsored by Baker's Chocolate Company in 1957.