Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this recipe for the best ever German chocolate cake! I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s a game changer. This cake is rich, decadent, and simply bursting with flavor. Picture this: layers of moist chocolate cake, each lovingly slathered with a luscious coconut pecan frosting that’s just the right amount of sweet. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for birthdays, holidays, and even just because! It’s the kind of dessert that makes your heart sing and your taste buds dance. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
How to Prepare the Best Ever German Chocolate Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly!
- Next, grab two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them with butter or cooking spray. Then, dust them with flour to prevent sticking. It’s a little extra step, but trust me, it’s worth it!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good whisk until everything is nicely blended.
- Add in the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Now, beat this mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes. You want it to be smooth and well combined, so don’t rush this step!
- Here’s where the magic happens: carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be quite thin, but that’s exactly what you want for a moist cake!
- Evenly pour the batter into your prepared pans. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect; it’ll rise beautifully in the oven.
- Pop those pans into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to remove them later without breaking.
- After 10 minutes, carefully turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial—don’t frost them while they’re still warm, or the frosting will melt!
- While the cakes are cooling, let’s whip up that delicious coconut pecan frosting! In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and evaporated milk, cooking for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a nice, thick consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and mix in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. This frosting is a showstopper, so don’t skimp on the mixing!
- Once your cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting between the cake layers and on top. Let it drizzle down the sides if you’re feeling fancy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual get-together, everyone will be asking for seconds.
- The combination of rich chocolate and sweet coconut pecan frosting is simply irresistible—it’s a flavor explosion!
- Preparation is straightforward and quick, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen.
- Each bite is moist and decadent, making it the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers.
- Perfect for making ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
- You can easily customize it! Add a scoop of ice cream or serve it with fresh berries for an extra touch.
- It’s beautiful! The layers and frosting make for a stunning presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: Trust me, it makes a world of difference! A good cocoa powder will elevate the chocolate flavor and give your cake that deep, rich taste it deserves.
- Don’t skip the cooling step: Letting your cakes cool completely is crucial. If you frost them while they’re still warm, the frosting will just melt right off, and nobody wants a cake puddle!
- Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so make sure you measure your ingredients precisely. I like to use a kitchen scale for the flour and sugar; it ensures consistency every time!
- Add the boiling water carefully: This step is essential for a moist cake, but be cautious when mixing it in. You want to avoid splashes—nobody wants a chocolatey kitchen disaster!
- Chill the frosting if needed: If your coconut pecan frosting is too runny, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before spreading it on the cake. It’ll firm up nicely and be easier to work with.
- Decorate with extra pecans: For a beautiful finish, sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top of your frosted cake. It adds a lovely crunch and looks super appealing!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delicious best ever German chocolate cake. Keep in mind that these are just estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 35g
- Protein: 5g
So, as you enjoy this decadent treat, you can keep these numbers in mind! It’s all about balance, right? Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! While the coconut pecan frosting is traditional and oh-so-delicious, feel free to experiment with a classic chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting if you prefer something different.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free!
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake keeps well! You can bake it a day ahead, just make sure to store it in an airtight container after it’s completely cooled. In fact, many say it tastes even better the next day!
What should I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries also add a lovely, refreshing touch to balance the richness of the cake.
Can I freeze leftover cake?
Definitely! Just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve baked this incredible best ever German chocolate cake, and now you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store it properly so it stays delicious for days to come.
First off, let the cake cool completely before storing it. This is super important because if you store it while warm, it can create moisture inside the container, which isn’t great for texture.
Once it’s cooled, you can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want it to last longer, pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out!
If you have more cake than you can eat in a week, you can freeze it! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy a slice of this heavenly cake anytime the craving strikes! It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw a slice in the fridge overnight. If you prefer it warm, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll end up with a dry piece of cake instead of the moist goodness you love!
Enjoy your cake, whether it’s fresh out of the oven or a delightful leftover treat!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this fabulous best ever German chocolate cake, let’s talk about how to elevate your dessert experience even further! The cake is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can take it to a whole new level.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic choice. The cold, sweet creaminess perfectly complements the rich chocolate and coconut flavors of the cake. Trust me, it’s a match made in dessert heaven!
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a lovely texture and balances the sweetness of the cake. You can even add a touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flair!
- Fresh Berries: Serve your cake with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Their tartness provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chocolate, making each bite even more delightful.
- Coffee: For the adults, a nice cup of coffee pairs beautifully with this cake. The slight bitterness of the coffee enhances the chocolate, making it a cozy treat for any gathering.
- Chocolate Ganache: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle some warm chocolate ganache over the top of your cake for an added layer of decadence. It’s chocolate on chocolate, and who could resist that?
These suggestions not only enhance the flavors but also create a delightful presentation. So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, these pairings will make your best ever German chocolate cake experience unforgettable!
Z nadrukami
Best Ever German Chocolate Cake: 5 Secrets to Bliss
- Całkowity Czas: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Ustępować: 12 servings 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
This is the best ever German chocolate cake, rich and decadent with layers of chocolate and coconut pecan frosting.
Składniki
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
Instrukcje
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in boiling water until well combined.
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans.
- For frosting, melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in brown sugar and evaporated milk. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and mix in coconut and pecans.
- Spread frosting between layers and on top of the cake.
Uwagi
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for better flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
- Czas Przygotowania: 30 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 35 minutes
- Kategoria: Dessert
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: German
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 slice
- Kalorie: 450
- Cukier: 35g
- Sód: 250mg
- Kwasy: 20g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 10g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 8g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 60g
- Włókno: 3g
- Białko: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Słowa kluczowe: best ever german chocolate cake, chocolate cake, german dessert
