
Here’s a detailed, unique article on German Chocolate Layer Cake, with a step-by-step guide to make it from scratch:
German Chocolate Layer Cake: A Rich and Decadent Delight
If you’ve ever wanted a cake that balances rich chocolate flavor with a sweet, nutty coconut frosting, the German Chocolate Layer Cake is your ultimate treat. Despite the name, it’s not from Germany—this classic American dessert was inspired by Samuel German, who developed a type of dark-baking chocolate in the 19th century. This cake features tender chocolate layers, separated by a gooey coconut-pecan filling, and topped with the same luscious frosting. Here’s how to make it from scratch, step by step.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Coconut-Pecan Filling/Frosting:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Optional Chocolate Ganache for Drizzle:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper for easy removal).
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water—the batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist, tender cake.









No Responses Yet