Introduction
Baker German Chocolate Cake Recipe is an iconic dessert that has been delighting taste buds for generations. Despite its name, this cake is not actually German—it was named after Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, a product developed by Samuel German in the 1850s. The cake became famous in 1957 when a Texas homemaker’s recipe using this chocolate was published in a newspaper, and it quickly became a household favorite.
This classic cake features three layers of moist chocolate cake, each generously filled and topped with a rich, buttery coconut-pecan frosting. Unlike other chocolate cakes, Baker’s German Chocolate Cake has a distinct lighter, sweeter chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with its creamy, nutty topping.
Ready to make this old-fashioned, bakery-style German Chocolate Cake at home? Follow this step-by-step guide to bake the most indulgent, perfectly moist cake for any occasion! 🎂✨
What Makes Baker’s German Chocolate Cake Special?
🍫 Unique Sweet Chocolate Flavor – Uses Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate, which is less bitter than dark chocolate.
🥥 Signature Coconut-Pecan Frosting – A buttery, caramel-like topping filled with toasted pecans and coconut flakes.
🎂 Moist & Soft Cake Layers – Made with buttermilk and melted chocolate for a rich yet light texture.
🔥 Timeless Classic – A traditional recipe loved by generations and perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients for Baker German Chocolate Cake Recipe
For the Cake:
- 1 package (4 oz) Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate (chopped)
- ½ cup boiling water
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
How to Make Baker’s German Chocolate Cake (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate
1️⃣ Chop the Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.
2️⃣ Pour boiling water over the chocolate and stir until completely melted. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
1️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3️⃣ Add egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4️⃣ Mix in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth.
5️⃣ Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk, mixing just until combined.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites (For an Extra Light Cake!)
1️⃣ In a separate clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
2️⃣ Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter to make the cake extra light and fluffy.
Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
3️⃣ Divide the batter evenly among the pans.
4️⃣ Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5️⃣ Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Make Coconut-Pecan Frosting
1️⃣ In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
2️⃣ Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 10-12 minutes, until thickened.
3️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans.
4️⃣ Let the frosting cool until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
Assembling the German Chocolate Cake
1️⃣ Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread ⅓ of the coconut-pecan frosting over the top.
2️⃣ Repeat with the second and third layers, spreading frosting between each layer and on top.
3️⃣ For a classic look, do not frost the sides—this cake traditionally has only the top and layers covered.
4️⃣ Let the cake set for 30 minutes before slicing.
How to Serve German Chocolate Cake
✔ Warm or Room Temperature – This cake is delicious either way!
✔ Paired with Ice Cream – Vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the rich cake.
✔ With a Cup of Coffee – The light chocolate pairs well with coffee or espresso.
✔ Drizzled with Extra Chocolate – For a more decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top.
Baker German Chocolate Cake Recipe Tips & Tricks
🔥 Use Fresh Pecans & Coconut – The frosting tastes best with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
🔥 Cool the Cake Completely – A warm cake will cause the frosting to slide off.
🔥 Chill Before Slicing – If you want clean slices, refrigerate for 30 minutes before cutting.
🔥 For a Richer Cake – Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to the batter.
Variations of German Chocolate Cake
🍫 Double Chocolate Version – Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the batter for a richer chocolate taste.
🥥 Extra Coconut Frosting – Use 2 cups of coconut instead of 1 ½ cups for more texture.
🔥 Sheet Cake Style – Bake in a 9×13-inch pan for an easier, one-layer cake.
🧁 German Chocolate Cupcakes – Bake in cupcake liners and top each one with a spoonful of frosting.
Final Thoughts: Why This is the Best Baker German Chocolate Cake Recipe!
This Baker German Chocolate Cake Recipe is a timeless, elegant dessert that’s rich, moist, and packed with flavor. The light chocolate cake layers, paired with the sweet coconut-pecan frosting, make every bite irresistible.
Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or special gathering, this cake is guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can bake a bakery-quality German Chocolate Cake at home!
So why wait? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake this classic chocolate masterpiece today! 🍫🎂
