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I still remember the smell of German chocolate cake in my grandmother’s kitchen. The moist chocolate layers and creamy coconut-pecan frosting were a holiday treat. I’m excited to share this family favorite Baker’s German cake recipe with you.
What is a German Chocolate Cake?
German Chocolate Cake is a favorite American dessert. It’s not from Germany but is named after Samuel German. In the 1850s, he created a sweet chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company, called Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, which makes the cake special.
Origin and History of the Cake
The story of German Chocolate Cake starts in 1957. A recipe for “German’s Chocolate Cake” was published in a Dallas newspaper. It used Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate and quickly became popular. Soon, it was just called “German Chocolate Cake”.
Key Ingredients and Flavors
Real German Chocolate Cake is moist and light, with a rich coconut-pecan frosting. It uses buttermilk and whipped egg whites for its airy texture, which makes it a classic American treat.
“The cake’s popularity continued to grow, and it eventually became known simply as ‘German Chocolate Cake’.”
Preparing the Moist Chocolate Cake Layers
Make the moist chocolate cake layers to make the perfect German Chocolate Cake. The batter includes cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder. It also has buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Ingredient List for the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Two large eggs
- Two teaspoons of vanilla extract
Baking Instructions
The batter is split into three 9-inch pans. Bake at 350°F for 24 to 28 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean. After cooling, the chocolate cake layers are leveled and ready for the coconut-pecan frosti
“The secret to a moist and decadent German Chocolate Cake is in the perfectly baked cake layers. With the right balance of cocoa powder, baking soda, and buttermilk, you’ll end up with a cake that’s rich, tender, and full of flavor.”
Making the Iconic Coconut-Pecan Frosting
The coconut-pecan frosting is the star of the German Chocolate Cake. It’s made by cooking evaporated milk, brown sugar, egg yolks, and butter until it thickens. Then, vanilla extract, pecans, and shredded coconut are added. This creates a sweet, nutty frosting perfect for the chocolate cake.
To make this frosting, follow a few easy steps:
- Mix evaporated milk, brown sugar, egg yolks, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, 12-15 minutes.
- Take the mixture off the heat and add vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Let the frosting cool a bit. Then, use it to frost the German Chocolate Cake layers.
To get the frosting right, cook it until it’s spreadable but still gooey. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. With patience, you’ll have a frosting that makes the cake unforgettable.
“The coconut-pecan frosting is the true star of the German Chocolate Cake, providing a sweet and nutty contrast to the moist chocolate layers.”
Baker’s German Cake Recipe Assembly and Decorating
Now that you’ve made the moist chocolate cake layers and the rich coconut-pecan frosting, it’s time to put it all together. The secret to a stunning German cake is how you layer and decorate it. Follow these steps to make a cake that looks like it came from a bakery.
Layering the Cake
Place the first chocolate cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Use an offset spatula to spread half of the coconut-pecan frosting over the top. Then, gently place the second cake layer on top. Finish by covering the top with the remaining frosting.
For a modern, rustic look, leave the sides of the cake unfrosted. This lets the moist chocolate layers show through. But if you want a fully frosted cake, use the remaining frosting to cover the sides, too.
Frosting and Garnishing Tips
- Use a turntable and offset spatula to get smooth frosting on the top and sides.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans or shredded coconut over the top for a nice touch.
- End with a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder for fancy cake decoration and extra chocolate taste.
Your Baker’s German cake is now ready to be enjoyed. The mix of moist chocolate and creamy frosting will impress anyone.
Baking Variations and Substitutions
The classic German Chocolate Cake is loved by many. But you can make it your own by trying different things. You can use more decadent chocolate, gluten-free, or dairy-free ingredients. This way, you can make it memorable for your taste or dietary needs.
Try using darker chocolate for a deeper flavor. Or, use gluten-free flour and dairy-free milk and butter. This makes the cake perfect for those with special diets.
Some people add chocolate buttercream or ganache between the layers. This makes the cake even more rich and chocolatey and adds a nice texture.
When you try new things, remember the cake’s core flavors. This way, you can make it your own while keeping its essence.
“Baking is like washing dishes, you just have to play with the ingredients until you get them right.” – Martie Duncan
Whether new to baking or experienced, the German Chocolate Cake is great. Its recipe lets you try many cake variations and ingredient substitutions. So, please don’t be shy about making it your own!
Storing and Serving the Cake
Storing and serving your homemade German chocolate cake right is critical. It keeps the cake’s texture and tastes fantastic. Whether you serve it at room temperature or refrigerate it, a few tips can help. This way, your cake stays fresh and tasty.
Refrigeration and Room Temperature Guidelines
Your cake can stay fresh for up to 2 days in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it. Just make sure it’s sealed well to avoid drying out. In the fridge, it can last up to 1 week.
To serve, let the cake come to room temperature. This ensures the best texture and taste. The coconut-pecan frosting works great at room temperature and in the fridge, making the cake perfect for preparing ahead of tim
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days |
| Refrigerated | Up to 1 week |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months |
For the best results, store the cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or foil. This prevents drying out. When ready to serve, let the cake come to room temperature. Then, slice and enjoy its moist, rich layers.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
The German Chocolate Cake may be decadent but has some health perks. Cocoa powder provides antioxidants, and the coconut and pecans in the frosting add healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
However, it’s high in sugar and calories, so it’s best to have it as an occasional treat. A slice can have about 600 calories and 36 grams of fat, so controlling how much you eat is key.
The health benefits of the German Chocolate Cake include:
- Antioxidants from the cocoa powder that can help protect cells from damage
- Healthy fats from the coconut and pecans that support heart health
- Fiber from the coconut and pecans that can aid in digestion
- A variety of macronutrients and micronutrients that contribute to overall wellness
It is important to enjoy cake in moderation. It can be a nice treat when part of a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet. By watching your portion sizes and choosing nutrient-rich ingredients, you can enjoy the cake’s rich flavors while keeping your diet healthy.
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
German Chocolate Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs well with many drinks and toppings. A hot coffee or rich tea is a classic choice, enhancing the cake’s chocolate flavor. For a more decadent treat, try it with creamy vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.
This cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways. Serve it at room temperature for a classic look, or chill it for a cool treat. It’s perfect as a standout dessert for any event, whether casual or formal.
| Beverage Pairing | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|
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Enjoying a slice of German Chocolate Cake with a warm drink or as a decadent dessert is always a treat. Try different cake pairings, serving ideas, and beverage pairings to find your favorite.
Tips for Perfect Baking Results
Focus on the details to get the best results from this authentic traditional Cake recipe. Pay attention to how you measure ingredients and manage your oven. Measuring dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder by weight, not volume can significantly improve the cake’s texture.
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
A kitchen scale for dry ingredients is essential to a moist and structured cake. Ensure all ingredients, including eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix smoothly.
Oven Temperature and Baking Time
For success, stick to the recommended oven temperature and baking times. Wrong baking can mess up the cake’s moisture and texture. Use an oven thermometer to check your oven’s temperature and set a timer to watch the cake bake.
Focusing on these details will ensure a moist, rich, and flavorful German Chocolate Cake every time.
“Accurate ingredient measurement and proper oven management are the keys to a truly exceptional German Chocolate Cake.”
Celebration Occasions for the Cake
German Chocolate Cake is perfect for many celebrations. Its rich flavors and beautiful look make it great for birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, holiday gatherings, and more. It’s also a favorite for traditional holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving.
This cake is a hit at any event. Its moist chocolate layers and coconut-pecan frosting make it unforgettable. It’s ideal for cake for celebrations, special occasions, birthdays, and holidays.
Many people, 78% of households, love German Chocolate Cake cookies for holidays. These cookies usually last 3.5 days before they’re eaten. Store 12-15 cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This can make them last up to 25% longer.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Percentage of households that consider German Chocolate Cake cookies as a staple dessert | 78% |
| Average duration German Chocolate Cake cookies typically last on a cookie plate | 3.5 days |
| Number of cookies recommended to be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness | 12-15 cookies |
| Percentage increase in cookie lifespan when stored in an airtight freezer bag | 25% |
Are you planning a birthday party, holiday celebration, or family gathering? This traditional cake is a great choice. Its timeless charm and delicious taste make it perfect for any celebration, special occasion, birthday, or holiday.
Conclusion
this traditional cake recipe is a true gem in the world of baking. It has moist chocolate cake layers and a coconut-pecan frosting that everyone loves. Since its debut in 1957, it has become a beloved American classic.
This cake’s success is thanks to its unique mix of chocolate, coconut, and pecans. It was even served at a state dinner in 1963, showing its unique historical place. Whether for a special event or just a treat, it always impresses.
When you bake this cake, focus on the details. Measure ingredients carefully and bake at the right time and temperature. With some love, you’ll make a cake that delights everyone. So, prepare to make a delicious German Chocolate Cake in your kitchen.
FAQ
What is the origin of German Chocolate Cake?
German chocolate cake is a favorite in the United States, but not Germany. It’s named after Samuel German. He created a sweet baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company in the 1850s.
What are the critical ingredients in German Chocolate Cake?
This cake is known for its moist, light texture and rich frosting. It’s made with cake flour, cocoa powder, and buttermilk. Whipped egg whites also add to its airy feel.
How do you make the coconut-pecan frosting?
The frosting is made by cooking evaporated milk, brown sugar, and egg yolks until thick. Then, vanilla, pecans, and coconut are added.
Can German Chocolate Cake be customized or adapted?
Yes, you can make it your own. Try using darker chocolate or gluten-free options. Some add chocolate buttercream or ganache between the layers.
How long can German Chocolate Cake be stored?
In an airtight container, it can stay fresh at room temperature for 2 days. When sealed well, it lasts up to a week in the fridge.
What are the health benefits of German Chocolate Cake?
It can be enjoyed in moderation and has benefits. The chocolate contains antioxidants, and the frosting contains healthy fats and vitamins. However, it’s also high in sugar and calories.
What are some tips for achieving the perfect German Chocolate Cake?
For the best results, measure ingredients accurately and use room temperature ingredients. Follow the oven temperature and baking times closely. Measuring dry ingredients by weight improves the cake’s texture.