Elegant German Chocolate Cake: A Slice of Heavenly Delight
Let’s talk about cakes. Not just any cakes, but the kind that feel like a warm hug in dessert form. Enter the Elegant German Chocolate Cake. Perfect for family celebrations or to brighten a gloomy Tuesday, this decadent dessert is packed with rich chocolate flavor and topped with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting that’s going to make you the star of any gathering. So, whether you’re looking to impress at your next dinner party or simply treat yourself (because you deserve it!), this cake is the answer!
Why You’ll Love This Elegant German Chocolate Cake
This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill cake recipe; it’s a comforting embrace for your taste buds. The contrast of rich chocolate layers and sweet, nutty frosting creates a symphony of flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds). Plus, it’s a fun baking project that doesn’t require a culinary degree—just a bit of love and patience.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the magical world of cake making, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful cake. Here’s what you’ll require:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Steps to Cake Perfection
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well mixed (think of it as the dry team’s pep talk).
- Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until fully blended. Finally, mix in the boiling water. Yes, it will be runny—that’s how it’s supposed to be!
- Pour equal amounts into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Frosting
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 12-15 minutes). Stay close—this isn’t the time to check your social media!
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let it cool to room temperature; this will thicken it up even more.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cake layers are cool, place one layer on a cake stand or plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides. Feel free to add extra toasted pecans on top for that fancy touch!
- Slice, serve, and watch your friends and family indulge in chocolatey bliss.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: A warm cake and frosting don’t play well together. Patience is key—allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting!
- Make It Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator; it may taste even better the next day (if that’s possible!).
- Frosting Phobia?: If you’re nervous about frosting, remember: it doesn’t have to be perfect. Embrace those little imperfections—it’s a homemade cake, after all!
A Personal Touch
This Elegant German Chocolate Cake is a staple in my home, shared at countless family birthdays and holiday celebrations. I remember the first time I made it for my sister Patricia. As I pulled it from the oven, the aroma had us both singing "Happy Birthday"—even if it wasn’t anyone’s special day. It became our go-to sweet treat, and I hope it finds a special place in your heart (and kitchen) too!
FAQs
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use flax eggs if you’re looking for a vegan option (1 flax egg = 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes!).
How can I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you have any left after that—you deserve a medal!
Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of regular?
Yes, you can! It’ll give your cake an even richer chocolate flavor. Just be aware that it may alter the cake’s color slightly.
Now that you have the scoop on this fabulous Elegant German Chocolate Cake, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and dive into some baking magic! Trust me, each bite is worth every second missed on the treadmill. So grab your apron, turn up the music, and let’s create some delectable memories together in the kitchen!
Meta Description: Elegant German Chocolate Cake is the perfect recipe for sweet tooths. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dessert will become your go-to treat.
Explore more delightful recipes at Al3ab.tech! And don’t forget to check out our Coconut Cream Pie and Classic Vanilla Cupcakes for more sweet inspiration!
Elegant German Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
- Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until fully blended.
- Mix in the boiling water until combined. Pour equal amounts into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickens (about 12-15 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Allow cooling to room temperature.
- Once the cake layers are cool, place one layer on a cake stand or plate.
- Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.
- Add extra toasted pecans on top if desired and serve.
