Baker’s German Choc Cake Recipe | Easy Classic Dessert
The Baker’s German Choc Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that captures the essence of true homemade baking rich, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable. I still remember the first time I baked this cake in my own kitchen. The aroma of freshly melted chocolate mixed with coconut and pecans filled the air and made my whole house smell heavenly. It wasn’t just a dessert; it was a delightful experience that took me back to traditional American baking roots.
What makes this cake special is how every bite melts in your mouth soft chocolate layers paired with a creamy coconut-pecan frosting that’s both sweet and nutty. Over the years, I’ve tried several variations of German cakes, but nothing beats this authentic, old-fashioned flavor that’s stood the test of time. So today, let’s explore this recipe deeply, from its history to its baking secrets, so you can recreate this classic right in your own kitchen.
What is Baker’s German Chocolate Cake Recipe?
The Baker’s German Chocolate Cake Recipe is a moist, multi-layered chocolate cake filled and topped with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. Unlike traditional chocolate cakes that use unsweetened cocoa, this one is made with sweet baking chocolate, which gives it a milder, richer flavor. It’s an ideal treat for birthdays, family gatherings, or whenever you want to make something truly special at home.

Reasons to Try This German Choc Cake
There are dozens of chocolate cake recipes out there, but this one stands apart because of its balance of sweetness, texture, and nostalgia. You don’t just bake this cake; you create a tradition. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this homemade German chocolate cake guide ensures consistent results every time. The ingredients are simple, but the results are extraordinary a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Equipment Needed
Before starting, gather all the tools you’ll need to make baking smooth and enjoyable.
- Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Electric mixer or whisk: To ensure the batter is light and fluffy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy matters for perfect texture.
- Spatula: Helps fold ingredients gently and scrape down sides.
- Cake pans (two 9-inch round pans): Creates the classic layered structure.
- Cooling rack: Prevents sogginess and helps cakes cool evenly.
- Saucepan: For preparing the signature coconut-pecan frosting.
Having these ready in advance keeps your process organized and stress-free.
Ingredients of German Cake
Here’s the complete list of what you’ll need to make the best Baker’s German cake recipe:
For the Cake:
- 1 package (4 oz) Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate
- ½ cup boiling water
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 large egg whites, beaten until stiff
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 egg yolks, beaten slightly
- ½ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ⅓ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Each ingredient plays a vital role in flavor and texture, so use fresh, high-quality products for the most authentic taste.
How to Bake This German Choc Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Break the Baker’s German sweet chocolate into small pieces and pour ½ cup boiling water over it. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly. This gives the cake its signature deep flavor.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing them separately ensures even distribution and prevents clumping later.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step traps air, giving your cake a soft texture.
5. Add Yolks and Chocolate: Add egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. Blend well until everything is evenly mixed.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to your butter-chocolate mix. Start and end with flour for a smooth, lump-free batter.
7. Fold in Beaten Egg Whites: Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter using a spatula. This adds volume and makes the cake lighter.
8. Bake: Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Prepare the Frosting: In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10–12 minutes). Remove from heat, then stir in coconut and pecans. Cool before spreading.
10. Assemble: Place one cake layer on a plate, spread a generous amount of frosting on top, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides. Your classic homemade German chocolate cake is ready!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: ~550 per slice
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fats: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Fiber: 3g
(Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion size.)
How to Serve This Recipe
This cake is best served at room temperature with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of milk. For a fancier presentation, garnish with chocolate shavings or extra toasted pecans. You can also serve it chilled for a firmer texture perfect for summer gatherings or celebrations.

FAQs
1. Can I use regular chocolate instead of Baker’s German sweet chocolate?
You can, but it will slightly alter the flavor. Baker’s German chocolate gives the authentic mild sweetness this cake is famous for.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake layers a day before and frost them the next day after cooling.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for 5 minutes your homemade buttermilk is ready.
5. How do I make the frosting thicker?
Cook it longer on medium heat, stirring constantly until it coats the back of a spoon.
Conclusion
The Baker’s German Choc Cake Recipe isn’t just a dessert it’s a story of tradition, flavor, and pure joy baked together. Every layer captures the rich history of authentic American baking while delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, following this guide guarantees a perfect, bakery-style cake every time. Try it once, and it’ll become your favorite recipe for life a delicious memory worth sharing.
Baker’s German Choc Cake Recipe | Easy Classic Dessert
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy10–12 slices
servings25
minutes1
hour5
minutes~550 per slice
kcalOne or two lines describing the cake and what makes it special.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 package (4 oz) Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate
½ cup boiling water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup butter (softened)
2 cups sugar
4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
4 large egg whites, beaten until stiff
- For the Frosting:
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup sugar
3 egg yolks, beaten slightly
½ cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ⅓ cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Melt the Chocolate: Break the Baker’s German sweet chocolate into small pieces and pour ½ cup boiling water over it. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly. This gives the cake its signature deep flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing them separately ensures even distribution and prevents clumping later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step traps air, giving your cake a soft texture.
- Add Yolks and Chocolate: Add egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. Blend well until everything is evenly mixed.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to your butter-chocolate mix. Start and end with flour for a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Fold in Beaten Egg Whites: Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter using a spatula. This adds volume and makes the cake lighter.
- Bake: Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10–12 minutes). Remove from heat, then stir in coconut and pecans. Cool before spreading.
- Assemble: Place one cake layer on a plate, spread a generous amount of frosting on top, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides. Your classic homemade German chocolate cake is ready!
Notes
- Always use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overbake it can make the cake dry. Check with a toothpick early.
- Toast your pecans and coconut lightly for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- For extra richness, add a spoonful of coffee to your melted chocolate.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; it stays moist for up to 3 days.