Go Back

Easy German Chocolate Cake

A delightful dessert featuring rich chocolate layers topped with a mixture of sweetened coconut and crunchy pecans, perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients

  • 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice.
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water This will thin out the batter.

Topping Ingredients

  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup caramel sauce

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
  • In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Stir in the boiling water into the batter. The batter will be thin.

Baking

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Topping and Assembly

  • Combine the sweetened shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and caramel sauce in a bowl. Mix until well coated.
  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread half of the coconut-pecan mixture over it, and then top with the second layer. Frost the top with the remaining mixture.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for three months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for best texture.
Keyword Baking, Chocolate Dessert, Easy Cake Recipe, German Chocolate Cake, Homemade Cake