Family German Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake:
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
1 cup hot water
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks, beaten
½ cup unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. In a small bowl, stir cocoa powder into hot water until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
5. Add wet ingredients and cocoa mixture to the dry ingredients. Beat until well combined and smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.

To Make the Frosting:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
2. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened—about 10 to 12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and pecans.
4. Let cool until spreadable.

Assembly:

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a third of the frosting on top.
2. Add the second layer and repeat.
3. Top with the final layer and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

History
German Chocolate Cake is not from Germany but named after Samuel German, who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. The original recipe was published in a Texas newspaper in 1957 and quickly became a classic American dessert.

Benefits
This cake provides a rich source of antioxidants from cocoa and healthy fats from pecans and coconut. Though indulgent, it’s a perfect occasional treat for family gatherings.

Conclusion
The Family German Chocolate Cake is a timeless dessert that combines moist chocolate layers with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. Its balance of sweetness and texture makes it an enduring favorite for celebrations and holidays.