Family German Chocolate Cake

The BEST homemade German Chocolate Cake with layers of coconut pecan frosting and chocolate frosting. This cake is incredible!

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 cup hot water or brewed coffee (enhances the chocolate!)

2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

1 cup evaporated milk

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large egg yolks

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut

1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

Make the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment).

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.

Stir in hot water or coffee — batter will be thin.

Divide evenly among pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let cool completely before frosting.

Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:

Evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.

Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened — about 10–12 minutes.

Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.

Let cool to room temperature before using (it will thicken more as it cools).

Assemble the Cake

Place the first cake layer on a plate or stand.

Spread a generous layer of coconut-pecan frosting.

Repeat with remaining layers, finishing with frosting on top (sides traditionally left bare, or lightly frosted).

Optional Additions:

Drizzle melted chocolate or ganache on top for an extra wow factor.

Add a whipped chocolate buttercream to the sides if you prefer a fully frosted cake.

Storage:

Keep covered at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Enjoy!