The Ultimate German Chocolate Cake Recipe

The Most Perfect, Delectable, Gooey German Chocolate Cake Recipe

If there’s one dessert that has stood the test of time, tantalized taste buds across generations, and caused more than a few sugar-induced daydreams, it’s the German Chocolate Cake. Rich layers of chocolate cake, sandwiching and smothered in a coconut-pecan caramel filling so luscious it should be illegal—it’s everything a dessert should be: indulgent, messy, and downright irresistible.

But here’s the thing—you haven’t had the best German Chocolate Cake yet. Not until you’ve made this one. I promise, this is THE recipe to beat all others. It’s gooey, ultra-chocolatey, with just the right balance of sweet and nutty crunch. And guess what? It’s actually easier to make than you think.

So, grab your apron (or just embrace the inevitable flour-covered chaos) and let’s dive into the most perfect, delectable, gooey German Chocolate Cake recipe ever!

A Little Cake History—Because We’re Fancy Like That

Fun fact: German Chocolate Cake isn’t actually German. Yep, shocking. It was named after Samuel German, an American baker who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. A recipe using his chocolate was later published in a newspaper in the 1950s, and boom—German Chocolate Cake became an instant classic.

Now that we’ve covered our sweet little history lesson, let’s get to the good stuff: making this gooey masterpiece from scratch.

The Ultimate German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (the darker, the better)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup hot water (yes, hot—it blooms the cocoa for a richer flavor)

For the Legendary Coconut-Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• ½ cup unsalted butter (because life is better with butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Silky Chocolate Frosting (Optional, But Let’s Be Real—Necessary):

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-By-Step Instructions for Gooey Cake Perfection

Step 1: Prep Like a Pro

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper. Trust me, you don’t want to wrestle with stuck cake layers later.

Step 2: Mix That Batter!

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

In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Now, add this to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Here’s the magic touch: slowly pour in the hot water while mixing on low speed. It’s gonna look thin—that’s okay. This is what makes it incredibly moist.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely. Yes, patience is hard, but it’s worth it.

Step 4: Make That Coconut-Pecan Filling (AKA The Star of the Show)

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Keep stirring—no walking away! The mixture will slowly thicken into a glorious caramel-like sauce.

Once thick and golden, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and pecans. Let it cool until it’s spreadable but still gooey.

Step 5: Whip Up the Frosting (Optional, But Highly Recommended)

Beat the softened butter until fluffy. Sift in cocoa powder and powdered sugar, then add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix until silky smooth.

Step 6: Assemble Like a Cake Boss

• Place the first cake layer on a plate. Slather on a hefty scoop of coconut-pecan filling.
• Repeat with the second layer.
• On the top layer, spread the rest of the coconut-pecan goodness—don’t be stingy.
• If using chocolate frosting, spread it around the sides for extra indulgence.

Step 7: Serve, Eat, and Enter Dessert Nirvana

Slice into this beauty and admire the gooey filling dripping down the sides. Take a bite. Experience chocolate-coconut-pecan heaven. Close your eyes, sigh in happiness. Repeat as necessary.

Tips for the Absolute Best German Chocolate Cake

Use high-quality cocoa powder – This is where the deep, rich chocolate flavor comes from.
Don’t skip the hot water step – It brings out the best in cocoa.
Let the cake cool before assembling – Warm cake + gooey filling = sliding disaster.
Toast the pecans for extra flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container. The filling can also be made a day ahead.

2. Can I use store-bought German chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes! If using German’s sweet chocolate, reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

3. Does it need to be refrigerated?

Yep! Because of the egg-based filling, keep it in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

4. Can I make it without nuts?

Of course! Just leave them out—though they do add that signature crunch.

5. What if I want an extra-gooey cake?

Double the coconut-pecan filling and add a layer of chocolate ganache. You won’t regret it.

6. Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yep! Just bake for 18-20 minutes and top each cupcake with the gooey filling.

This German Chocolate Cake isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience. It’s rich, gooey, chocolatey, and absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because life demands more cake, this recipe will never let you down.

Now go forth, bake, and make the world a little sweeter—one slice at a time.

Discover the Midnight Hour 8" Plate for the perfect dessert.

And don't forget your cup and saucer set!