German Chocolate Cake

German Chocolate Cake is a delightful dessert known for its rich chocolate layers and decadent coconut-pecan frosting. This classic cake is perfect for celebrations or simply to satisfy a chocolate craving. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

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

For the Frosting:

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round baking pans.

1. Mix the Cake Batter:

• In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until well combined.
• Reduce the speed and carefully add the boiling water. Beat on high speed for about 1 minute to incorporate air into the batter.

1. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove from the oven and let cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.

1. Make the Frosting:

• In a saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 12 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in the coconut and pecans. Allow the frosting to cool until thick enough to spread.

1. Frost the Cake:

• Frost the cake with the coconut-pecan frosting between the layers, on top, and around the sides.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 12-16

Variations

• For a different flavor profile, try adding espresso powder to the cake batter for a mocha twist.
• You can replace the pecans with walnuts if preferred, or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover German Chocolate Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

10 FAQs

1. What is the difference between German chocolate and regular chocolate?
   German chocolate refers to a specific type of dark-baking chocolate that was named after an American named Samuel German, not the country Germany.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost.
3. What can I use instead of eggs?
   For an egg substitute, you can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg).
4. Is it possible to make this cake in one pan?
   Yes, you can use a 9×13 inch pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly (around 40-50 minutes).
5. What if my frosting doesn’t thicken?
   Make sure to stir constantly and allow it to cook long enough. If it’s still runny, you can refrigerate it briefly to help it set.
6. Can I use a different type of milk?
   Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% or even a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk.
7. How do I know when the cake is done?
   A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. What should I do if my cake layers domed?
   You can level the tops with a serrated knife once they have cooled for a more even frosting surface.
9. Can I add food coloring to the frosting?
   Yes, you can add food coloring to the frosting to match a theme or occasion.
10. How should I serve this cake?
    Serve at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

German Chocolate Cake is a beloved classic that brings rich flavors and textures to the table. With its moist chocolate layers and luscious coconut-pecan frosting, it’s perfect for any celebration or just because you deserve a treat. Enjoy this delightful cake and share it with friends and family for a truly memorable dessert experience!

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