Description
Rich German chocolate cake delivers pure indulgence through layers of moist chocolate sponge and luscious coconut-pecan frosting. Ina Garten’s classic dessert promises a luxurious experience that delights with each delectable bite you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Base Ingredients:
- 400 grams (14.11 ounces) granulated sugar
- 220 grams (7.76 ounces) plain flour
- 75 grams (2.65 ounces) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 240 milliliters (8.12 fluid ounces) buttermilk
- 120 milliliters (4.06 fluid ounces) vegetable or sunflower oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 240 milliliters (8.12 fluid ounces) boiling water
Frosting and Filling Ingredients:
- 100 grams (3.53 ounces) light brown sugar
- 100 grams (3.53 ounces) granulated sugar
- 115 grams (4.06 ounces) unsalted butter
- 3 large egg yolks
- 180 milliliters (6.09 fluid ounces) evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 100 grams (3.53 ounces) chopped pecans
- 100 grams (3.53 ounces) shredded sweetened coconut
Chocolate Icing Ingredients:
- 115 grams (4.06 ounces) unsalted butter
- 75 grams (2.65 ounces) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 375 grams (
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 190°C (170°C fan)/375°F. Carefully coat two 20 centimeters (8-inch) or 23 centimeters (9-inch) round cake pans with butter and line with parchment paper.
- Create the cake mixture by combining dry ingredients: sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate vessel, thoroughly whisk eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Merge wet and dry ingredients by pouring liquid mixture into dry ingredients. Gently fold until completely incorporated. Carefully incorporate boiling water, which will create an unusually thin batter consistency.
- Distribute batter evenly between prepared cake pans. Slide into preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes, depending on pan size. Check doneness by inserting a clean skewer into cake center – it should emerge with minimal moist crumbs.
- Allow cakes to rest in pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire cooling rack. Meanwhile, prepare coconut frosting by combining brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, egg yolks, and evaporated milk in a medium saucepan.
- Simmer frosting mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until it reaches a gentle boil. Continue cooking and stirring for several minutes until mixture thickens noticeably. Remove from heat and fold in vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut.
- For chocolate buttercream, melt butter and blend with cocoa powder. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and evaporated milk, mixing until achieving a silky smooth texture. Adjust consistency by adding small amounts of milk if necessary.
- Assemble cake by positioning first layer on serving plate. Spread thin layer of chocolate frosting, then carefully distribute half of coconut mixture, leaving small border around edges.
- Carefully place second cake layer on top. Completely cover cake with remaining chocolate buttercream. Artfully spoon remaining coconut frosting over top layer, creating an elegant finish.
- Slice and serve German Chocolate Cake at room temperature, accompanied by preferred beverage for a delightful dessert experience.
Notes
- Elevate flavor by toasting pecans and coconut until golden brown, releasing their rich, nutty essence before mixing into the frosting.
- Prevent dense cake texture by gently folding ingredients, stopping the mixer the moment dry and wet components merge seamlessly.
- Select premium unsweetened cocoa powder to guarantee a deep, luxurious chocolate taste that transforms the entire dessert.
- Ensure ingredients reach room temperature, allowing smoother blending and helping create an incredibly light, tender cake crumb.
- Wait patiently for cake to cool completely, preventing frosting from sliding off and maintaining a pristine, professionally decorated appearance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks, Drinks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 85mg