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German Chocolate Cake

Learn how to bake german chocolate poke cake with a dessert recipe focused on texture, sweetness, and consistent results.

5.0 · 32 reviewsRecipe card by Marg CaymanDesignsEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 18, 2026
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Total time

60 min

Servings

12

Calories

678.9

Category

Desserts

Indulge in the ultimate German Chocolate Cake, a classic dessert that combines rich chocolate layers with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. Ready in under an hour, this European-inspired treat serves 12 and is perfect for celebrations or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Makes 12 servings

  • 1/2 boiling water
  • 4 sugar
  • 2 butter
  • 1 vanilla
  • 4 cake flour
  • 1 baking soda
  • 2 1/2 salt
  • 1 buttermilk
  • 1 sugar
  • 1 butter
  • 4 evaporated milk
  • 1 vanilla
  • 1/2 flaked coconut
  • 1 pecans

Method

  1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 2 9-inch square pans or 3 8-inch round pans. Line bottom of pans with wax paper.

  2. Pour boiling water on chocolate, stirring until chocolate is melted; cool. Mix sugar and butter in large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs yolk, one at a time. Beat in chocolate and vanilla on low speed.

  3. Mix in flour, baking soda and salt alternately with buttermilk, beating after each addition until batter is smooth. Fold in egg whites.

  4. Divide batter among pans. Bake square pans 40-45 minutes or round pans 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness with toothpick in center. Cool and top with Coconut-Pecan Frosting.

  5. Coconut Pecan Frosting: Mix sugar, butter, milk, vanilla and egg yolks in saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thick, about 12 minutes. Take off heat. Stir in coconut and pecans. Beat until spreading consistency. Allow to cool & thicken before icing cake.

Cook's notes

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
  • Toast the pecans and coconut for deeper flavor before adding to the frosting.
  • Line pans with wax paper for easy removal.

Frequently asked

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, but for best results, use unsweetened baking chocolate as specified. Dark or semi-sweet will alter the sweetness and texture.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 5 minutes.

How do I know the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

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