Homemade German Chocolate Cake Recipe

German Chocolate Cake is a beloved American classic with roots dating back to 1957, when the original recipe appeared on Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate bar packaging.

This cake is celebrated for its deep, rich chocolate layers and a signature coconut-pecan filling that creates a perfect harmony of texture and flavor.

In this recipe, we combine Dutch process cocoa, real semisweet chocolate, and a tangy buttermilk base to ensure a cake that is both moist and decadent.

Whether you’re recreating nostalgic memories or discovering this classic for the first time, this detailed guide will help you bake the best German Chocolate Cake from scratch.

Ingredients Checklist

To create the ultimate German Chocolate Cake, use fresh, high-quality ingredients and measure them accurately for best results. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

• ¾ cup (65g) Dutch process or natural cocoa powder

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

• 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee or water

• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 120g (4oz) semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled

• ½ cup (120g) sour cream, at room temperature (for added moisture)

For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cubed

• 3 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1⅓ cups (110g) sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup (120g) pecans, toasted and chopped

• ⅛ teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Frosting (Optional but recommended):

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted

• ⅔ cup (55g) cocoa powder

• ⅓ cup (80ml) evaporated milk or heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Equipment Needed:

• Three 9-inch round cake pans

• Parchment or wax paper

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer

• Large and medium mixing bowls

• Spatula, whisk, and wooden spoon

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Saucepan (for filling)

• Cooling rack

• Serrated knife or cake leveler

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these carefully detailed steps for the most authentic, moist, and flavorful German Chocolate Cake.

1. Prepare Cake Pans and Ingredients

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease and line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment, dust with cocoa powder.

• Toast pecans in a dry pan for 5–8 minutes until fragrant, then cool and chop.

• Melt the semisweet chocolate and let it cool slightly.

2. Make the Chocolate Cake Batter

• In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

• In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs until pale and thick (about 3 minutes).

• Mix in melted chocolate, oil, vanilla, sour cream, and buttermilk.

• Add dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with hot coffee. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix only until just combined; do not overmix.

• Divide batter evenly among pans. Tap to release bubbles.

• Bake 18–24 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.

• Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to racks to cool fully.

3. Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, evaporated milk, egg yolks, and butter.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (8–12 minutes). It should coat the back of a spoon and look glossy.

• Remove from heat; stir in vanilla, coconut, pecans, and salt.

• Cool completely before assembling the cake. The filling thickens as it cools.

4. Make the Chocolate Frosting

• Beat butter until creamy and pale.

• Gradually mix in powdered sugar and cocoa until combined.

• Add evaporated milk and vanilla; beat until smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.

• Adjust with more milk or sugar for consistency, if needed.

5. Assemble the Cake

• Level cakes if needed for even stacking.

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with a generous amount of coconut-pecan filling, leaving a small border.

• Add the next cake layer and repeat with filling.

• Top with the final cake layer.

• Frost the sides and edge of the top layer with chocolate frosting, leaving the coconut-pecan filling visible in the center for a classic look.

• Decorate with extra pecans or coconut, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth batter and even rise.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold dry into wet just until combined for a tender crumb.

• Test for Doneness Early: Check cakes a few minutes before the minimum time.

• Thicken Filling Properly: The filling must be thick enough to hold its shape between layers.

• Cool Everything Completely: Both cake and filling must be cool before assembly.

Pro Tip: For neat slices, chill the assembled cake for 30–60 minutes before cutting.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve at room temperature with a cup of coffee.

• Elegant: Decorate with chocolate shavings, piped frosting, or whole pecans.

• Festive: Add a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for an indulgent finish.

Definition: Crumb Coat
A thin first layer of frosting that traps crumbs before a final, smooth layer is applied.

Storage and Make-Ahead Advice

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days; bring to room temp before serving for best flavor.

• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly; freeze up to 3 months. Thaw and frost as desired. For leftovers, freeze slices individually wrapped.

• Make-Ahead: Cake and filling can be made 1–2 days ahead; assemble and frost on the day you serve for maximum freshness.

Tips for High Altitude Baking

• Increase flour by 2 tablespoons per cup.

• Reduce sugar slightly and increase baking temperature by 15–25°F.

• Test for doneness early, as cakes may bake faster.

Final Thoughts

A homemade German Chocolate Cake is a showstopper that honors a time-tested tradition of comfort and celebration. By using quality ingredients, following expert guidance, and embracing a few pro baking tips, you’ll create a decadent cake that leaves a lasting impression. Share a slice with family and friends, and enjoy the sweet memories you make along the way.