Classic German Chocolate Cake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic German Chocolate Cake.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   While it warms up, take three 8-inch cake pans and give them a good greasing and flouring, then line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure your cakes come out perfectly.

3. Step 3

   In a separate bowl, combine sweet baking chocolate with boiling water, stirring until it melts into a smooth, glossy mixture.

4. Step 4

   Set this aside to cool while you move on to the next steps.

5. Step 5

   In a large mixing bowl, grab your electric mixer and cream together 1 cup of softened margarine and 2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is where the magic begins! Next, add in 4 egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

6. Step 6

   Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the cooled chocolate mixture until everything is beautifully combined.

7. Step 7

   Now, let’s tackle the dry ingredients.

8. Step 8

   In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

9. Step 9

   Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk.

10. Step 10

    Mix until the batter is smooth and velvety, which should take about a minute.

11. Step 11

    In a separate bowl, beat the reserved egg whites until they form stiff peaks.

12. Step 12

    This step is crucial for giving your cake that delightful lightness.

13. Step 13

    Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, being careful to keep that airy texture intact.

14. Step 14

    Once your batter is ready, divide it evenly among the prepared cake pans.

15. Step 15

    Pop them in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

16. Step 16

    While the cakes are baking, take a moment to enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.

17. Step 17

    After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

18. Step 18

    Now, let’s whip up that irresistible frosting! In a large saucepan, combine evaporated milk, 1 cup of sugar, 3 egg yolks, 1/4 cup of margarine, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

19. Step 19

    Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium.

20. Step 20

    Stir constantly as it thickens, which should take about 12 minutes.

21. Step 21

    Once thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in coconut and pecans until the frosting is cool and spreadable.

22. Step 22

    When your cakes are completely cooled, it’s time for the fun part—frosting! Generously frost and fill your layers with the luscious coconut-pecan frosting, creating a beautiful and delicious masterpiece.

23. Step 23

    Enjoy every bite of your homemade creation!.