Family German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Joshuaon

Looking for the perfect classic German Chocolate Cake recipe? This family favorite is rich, moist, and layered with the traditional coconut-pecan frosting everyone loves. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any special celebration, this homemade cake is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 4 oz (1 bar) Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, broken into pieces
  • ½ cup boiling water
  • 1 cup margarine or butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated white sugar
  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups sifted all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coconut Pecan Frosting

  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks, beaten
  • ¼ cup margarine or butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ⅓ cups sweetened flaked coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. Place chocolate pieces in boiling water and stir until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened margarine and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla and the melted chocolate mixture.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to the batter alternately with buttermilk, mixing until smooth.

Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites

  1. In a clean glass or metal bowl, beat the reserved egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  2. Gently fold them into the cake batter, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
  2. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Coconut Pecan Frosting

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 10–12 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let cool before spreading.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread frosting evenly on top.
  2. Repeat with the remaining layers, stacking as you go.
  3. Frost the top and sides generously.

Tips for the Best German Chocolate Cake

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
  • Do not overmix once egg whites are folded in—this keeps the cake airy and fluffy.
  • Toast the pecans for extra flavor in the frosting.
  • This cake can be made a day ahead; the flavors develop beautifully overnight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This authentic German Chocolate Cake recipe delivers:

  • Moist chocolate layers
  • Creamy coconut-pecan filling
  • A stunning presentation for any dessert table

Perfect for anyone searching for classic holiday cakes, homemade chocolate desserts, or traditional Southern baking recipes.