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Homemade German Chocolate Cake

A rich and decadent cake with layers of chocolate and a sweet coconut pecan frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup boiling water
For the Coconut Pecan Frosting
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup evaporated milk
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, alternating between the two, and mix until smooth. Stir in the boiling water until well combined.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Making the Frosting
  1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and butter, and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla extract.
Assembling the Cake
  1. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter and spread a generous layer of coconut pecan frosting. Top with the second layer and frost the top and sides.
Serving
  1. Slice and serve your delicious Homemade German Chocolate Cake, and prepare for compliments!

Notes

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. For a zesty contrast, pair with cherry compote.