Decadent German Chocolate Cake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Decadent 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 two 9-inch cake pans and give them a good greasing.

3. Step 3

   For extra assurance, line the bottoms with parchment paper and grease the parchment too—this will help your cakes slide out effortlessly later on.

4. Step 4

   Now, let’s melt some chocolate magic! In a double boiler, combine semisweet chocolate, unsweetened chocolate, and a splash of water.

5. Step 5

   Stir it gently and watch as the chocolate transforms into a silky smooth delight, which should take about 5 minutes.

6. Step 6

   In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 1/4 cups of sugar and butter until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take around 5 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Gradually mix in that luscious melted chocolate, and then add the egg yolks one at a time, making sure each yolk is fully blended before introducing the next.

8. Step 8

   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

9. Step 9

   Add half of this dry mixture to your creamed butter and chocolate, mixing until just combined.

10. Step 10

    Next, pour in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, followed by the remaining flour mixture, stirring gently until everything is just blended.

11. Step 11

    Now, let’s whip those egg whites! In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.

12. Step 12

    Gradually sprinkle in the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve stiff peaks.

13. Step 13

    Gently fold about a third of the egg whites into your cake batter, then carefully fold in the rest, being mindful not to overmix—this will keep your cake light and airy.

14. Step 14

    Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans and pop them in the oven.

15. Step 15

    Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

16. Step 16

    Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.

17. Step 17

    While the cakes are cooling, let’s whip up the filling.

18. Step 18

    In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and egg yolks, mixing well.

19. Step 19

    Cook this over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens and reaches 170°F (76°C).

20. Step 20

    In a separate bowl, mix together coconut, pecans, butter, and a pinch of salt.

21. Step 21

    Pour the hot custard over this mixture and stir until the butter melts.

22. Step 22

    Set this delicious filling aside to cool to room temperature.

23. Step 23

    Next, we’ll make a simple syrup.

24. Step 24

    In a small saucepan, heat water and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

25. Step 25

    Once it’s ready, remove it from the heat and stir in some dark rum for that extra kick.

26. Step 26

    Now, let’s create the frosting! In a bowl, combine chopped chocolate, butter, and corn syrup.

27. Step 27

    Heat cream in a saucepan until it just starts to boil, then pour it over the chocolate mixture.

28. Step 28

    Let it sit for a minute before stirring until it’s smooth and melted.

29. Step 29

    Allow this to cool to room temperature.

30. Step 30

    Once your cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Using a serrated knife, carefully cut each layer in half horizontally.

31. Step 31

    Place the first layer on a cake plate and brush it generously with the syrup.

32. Step 32

    Spread 3/4 cup of the filling on top, making sure to reach the edges.

33. Step 33

    Repeat this process with the remaining layers, finishing with the top layer.

34. Step 34

    Finally, it’s time to frost! Cover the sides of the cake with your rich chocolate frosting.

35. Step 35

    For a touch of elegance, use a piping bag to create a decorative border around the top and bottom of the cake.

36. Step 36

    And there you have it—a stunning cake that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every delicious bite!.