Easy classic chocolate in a 9x13 pan with decadent, gooey coconut-pecan topping.

Essentially, this frosting is a thick, butterscotch custard with tons of shredded coconut and pecans folded in.

It’s what that makes this cake so delicious and unique.

german chocolate sheet cake

Cindy Rahe

What Is German Chocolate Cake?

It’s delicious, when done right.

(My guess is that they can cut costs by supplementing the traditional topping with plain chocolate frosting.)

German Chocolate Cake

Cindy Rahe

I find that unacceptable.

It’s basically a snackable sheet cake.

I think this stands up better to the sweet frosting.

German Chocolate Snack Cake

Cindy Rahe

How To Make Gooey Coconut-Pecan Frosting

This coconut-pecan frosting is made like no other frosting.

Then you fold in your coconut and pecans and that’s it!

Can I Make This as a Layer Cake?

German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Cindy Rahe

Cool the cakes completely and level the tops if needed.

Make-Ahead Tips for German Chocolate Cake

Yes!

you might make both the cake and frosting ahead of time.

German Chocolate Cake

Cindy Rahe

The frosting should be stored in an airtight container and can be refrigerated for day or two.

Bring the frosting to room temperature and stir before using.

Who Invented German Chocolate Cake?

German Chocolate Cake

Cindy Rahe

Sift the flour, cocoa, baking powder, soda, and salt into a large mixing bowl.

In a measuring cup combine the boiling water, chocolate, and espresso.

Cover and let the hot water melt the chocolate, about 10 minutes, and whisk until smooth.

German Chocolate Cake

Cindy Rahe

Stop periodically and scrape the bottom of the bowl.

Whisk together the egg yolks, evaporated milk, and brown sugar in a saucepan.

Add the butter and warm over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.

German Chocolate Cake

Cindy Rahe

Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and salt, followed by the coconut and pecans.

The frosting should be thick, creamy, and nubbly with coconut and pecans.

Cool the frosting to room temperature and spread generously onto the cake.

German Chocolate Cake

Cindy Rahe

Serve the cake from the pan.

This cake is best served the same day it’s frosted.

Leftovers can be kept, covered, for 2 to 3 days at room temperature.