Name: Family German Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true celebration cake—moist, sweet, and filled with textures from toasted pecans and shredded coconut. It’s the perfect balance of richness and homemade comfort, and it tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake will leave a lasting impression.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Buttermilk
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Boiling water

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

Evaporated milk
Granulated sugar
Egg yolks
Butter
Vanilla extract
Sweetened shredded coconut
Chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until combined, then slowly add boiling water. Batter will be thin.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

To make the frosting:
7. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened—about 10–12 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let cool to room temperature.
9. Spread the frosting between cake layers and over the top. You may frost the sides if desired, but traditional German chocolate cake leaves them bare.

Servings and timing

Serves: 12–14 slices
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Cooling and assembling time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Add a layer of chocolate ganache between cake layers for extra richness.
Replace pecans with walnuts if preferred.
Use unsweetened shredded coconut for less sweetness.
Make cupcakes instead of a full cake for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

Is German chocolate cake actually from Germany?

No, it originated in the U.S. and is named after Samuel German, who developed the baking chocolate used in the original recipe.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, the coconut-pecan frosting can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Why is the cake batter so thin?

The boiling water added at the end helps create a moist and tender crumb. It’s normal for the batter to be thin.

Can I make this cake in a 9×13 pan?

Yes, though the presentation will differ. Just adjust the baking time to around 40–45 minutes and test for doneness.

Can I use store-bought frosting?

Homemade frosting is recommended for authentic flavor, but you can use a pre-made coconut-pecan frosting in a pinch.

How do I toast pecans for the frosting?

Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can substitute 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I frost the sides of the cake?

Yes, though traditionally, German chocolate cake is only frosted between the layers and on top.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, freeze unfrosted cake layers or frosted slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though texture and rise may vary slightly.

Conclusion

Family German chocolate cake is a timeless dessert full of charm, flavor, and nostalgia. With its rich chocolate layers and sweet, nutty frosting, it’s the kind of cake that brings people together and becomes a tradition in its own right. Whether you’re passing it down or trying it for the first time, it’s sure to be a family favorite.