If you have a sweet tooth and a love for classic, comforting desserts, you are going to fall head over heels for this Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe. It blends a rich, moist chocolate cake with a buttery, coconut-pecan frosting that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward steps that guarantee a show-stopping cake perfect for celebrations or any day that needs a little extra cheer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each contributes to the layered flavors and textures—from the tender crumb of the cake to the luscious, nutty frosting that makes this recipe truly unforgettable.
- 1 box German Chocolate cake mix: Provides the rich chocolate base with a convenient shortcut to deliciousness.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tangy moisture that keeps the cake tender and flavorful.
- ½ cup oil: Ensures the cake stays moist and soft for days.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the batter together for a perfect rise and texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- 1 (12-oz) can evaporated milk: A creamy base for the frosting that gives it an irresistible richness.
- 1½ cups sugar: Sweetens the frosting and balances the chocolate cake.
- ¾ cup butter: Adds decadence and smoothness to the frosting.
- 4 egg yolks, slightly beaten: Give the frosting its silky, custard-like consistency.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Pours extra flavor depth into the coconut-pecan frosting.
- 1 (7-oz) bag sweetened coconut flakes: Brings chewy texture and tropical sweetness.
- 1½ cups finely chopped pecans: Introduces a buttery crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft cake.
How to Make Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and generously greasing and flouring two 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans. This prevents sticking and ensures your cake layers come out perfectly smooth. In a mixing bowl, combine the German Chocolate cake mix, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a handheld mixer, beat everything on medium speed for about 2 minutes to make a smooth, velvety batter that promises a moist crumb.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans to ensure uniform baking. Place them in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely. This prevents cracks and keeps the texture perfectly light.
Step 3: Make the Classic Coconut-Pecan Frosting
While your cakes are cooling, it’s time to create the star topping. In a large saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and the beaten egg yolks. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly for about 12 minutes, until it thickens into a luscious, creamy custard. Remove it from the heat and immediately stir in the coconut flakes, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. This frosting is the hallmark of the Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe, bringing that irresistible texture and flavor.
Step 4: Cool and Assemble the Cake
Allow the frosting to cool slightly, then refrigerate until it firms up enough to spread easily without sliding off the cake. Once your cake layers are completely cool, spread a generous amount of frosting between them, then pile on the remaining frosting on top for that signature gooey finish. This layering of flavors truly brings the Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe to life.
How to Serve Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For extra flair, sprinkle some toasted pecans or additional coconut flakes on top of the cake. A few chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted chocolate can also make your presentation look like it came from a professional bakery without extra effort.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A cup of rich coffee or a glass of cold milk also heightens the indulgence, balancing the sweet, nutty flavors with a smooth, comforting contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices on elegant dessert plates with a garnish of fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. You could even serve the cake as mini individual trifle cups by layering chunks of cake with frosting and chopped pecans for a fun twist on the classic presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The frosting’s dairy content means refrigeration will keep it fresh for up to 4 days without drying out the cake layers.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake layers separately before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Once thawed, prepare the frosting fresh for best texture, or freeze the frosting in a separate container and thaw overnight before use.
Reheating
Because this cake is best served cool or at room temperature, reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if you prefer to soften the cake slightly, bring it to room temperature after refrigeration. Avoid microwaving as the frosting may soften too much or become runny.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake batter instead of the boxed mix?
Absolutely! While the Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe calls for a boxed mix for simplicity, you can substitute your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe and still follow the same frosting method for a fantastic cake.
Is there a way to make the frosting vegan or dairy-free?
Traditional German chocolate cake frosting relies on eggs, butter, and evaporated milk, which makes it tricky to veganize. However, there are plant-based substitutes you could try, such as coconut cream, vegan butter, and egg replacers, though the texture will differ somewhat from the classic.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can, by using a gluten-free German chocolate cake mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free. The frosting ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so no changes needed there.
Why does the frosting need to be cooked?
Cooking the frosting thickens the eggs and sugar into a custard base, which gives the frosting its signature creamy, fudgy texture and rich flavor—something you won’t get with a no-cook frosting.
What’s the best way to cut this cake without making a mess?
Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts, and wipe the blade with a warm damp towel between slices to prevent sticking and tearing of the luscious frosting layers.
Final Thoughts
This Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe is one you’ll want to keep close for any occasion that calls for a celebration or simply a sweet treat. It captures the perfect balance of rich chocolate cake and that unforgettable coconut-pecan frosting in a way that’s approachable and fun. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite dessert to share with the people you love!
Print
Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy German Chocolate Cake recipe is a delightful treat featuring moist chocolate layers paired with a rich, homemade coconut-pecan frosting. Utilizing a simple boxed cake mix combined with classic ingredients, it delivers an impressive dessert perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box German Chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 (12-oz) can evaporated milk
- 1½ cups sugar
- ¾ cup butter
- 4 egg yolks, slightly beaten
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (7-oz) bag sweetened coconut flakes
- 1½ cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Pans: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the German Chocolate cake mix, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a handheld electric mixer, beat at medium speed for 2 minutes until well blended.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cakes from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Frosting: In a large saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and slightly beaten egg yolks. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, for about 12 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
- Add Frosting Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the coconut flakes, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Allow the frosting to cool slightly, then refrigerate until it firms up.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes and frosting are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of frosting between the cake layers. Optionally, frost the top and sides as desired. Serve and enjoy your classic German Chocolate Cake!
Notes
- Ensure the frosting is cooled and firm enough to spread easily without melting.
- For added moisture, you can brush each cake layer with a little evaporated milk before frosting.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh.
- Use fresh pecans and coconut flakes for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute the buttermilk with regular milk plus 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
