When it comes to classic desserts, few can match the rich, indulgent allure of German Chocolate Cake. Just hearing the name can make your mouth water. This iconic cake is a true masterpiece, combining layers of moist chocolate cake with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. In this blog post, we’ll explore the delicious history of German Chocolate Cake, its intriguing origins, and share an easy recipe for you to try at home.
The Irresistible Taste of German Chocolate Cake
German Chocolate Cake is a symphony of flavors and textures. The chocolate layers are moist, tender, and deeply chocolaty, serving as the perfect canvas for the creamy, sweet, and slightly nutty coconut-pecan frosting. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that has captured the hearts and taste buds of dessert enthusiasts around the world.
The Surprising Origins
Despite its name, German Chocolate Cake doesn’t have its roots in Germany. The cake is actually named after Samuel German, an American baker who developed a type of dark baking chocolate in 1852. This chocolate, known as “German’s Chocolate,” was originally used in the creation of the cake.
The recipe for German Chocolate Cake, as we know it today, was popularized by a 1957 issue of American Home magazine. A Texas homemaker submitted the recipe, which quickly gained nationwide attention. The use of sweet, flaky coconut and chopped pecans in the frosting added a unique twist to the traditional chocolate cake. The cake’s popularity soared, and it soon became a staple dessert in American households.
An Easy Recipe to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings
Now, let’s bring the magic of German Chocolate Cake into your kitchen with this straightforward recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting:
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 ⅓ cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Prepare 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, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for about two minutes.
• Stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin. Pour evenly into prepared pans.
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on wire racks.
2. Make the Frosting:
• In a medium saucepan, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes.
• Remove the saucepan from heat, and stir in the vanilla, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
• Allow the frosting to cool to room temperature before using it to frost the cake.
3. Assemble the Cake:
• Place one layer of cake on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
• Add the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
• If desired, garnish with additional pecans and coconut.
4. Enjoy!
Slice yourself a piece of this decadent delight and savor the rich, sweet, and nutty goodness of German Chocolate Cake.
German Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to the joy of baking. Whether you’re indulging in a slice at a local bakery or trying your hand at making it yourself, this cake is a true classic that continues to win hearts with every bite.