German Chocolate Cake, though named for a type of baking chocolate, is a beloved American dessert recognized for its deep chocolate flavor and indulgent coconut-pecan frosting. This sheet cake version makes it easy to serve a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups white sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 4 oz German baking chocolate
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 12 oz evaporated milk
• 3 egg yolks
• 3/4 cup butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Grease a sheet pan and set it aside.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, white sugar, and cocoa powder.
3. Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a saucepan, melt butter, shortening, and German chocolate over medium heat until smooth.
4. Combine with Dry Ingredients: Pour the melted chocolate into the dry ingredients. Add buttermilk, baking soda, salt, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for 20–22 minutes. Let it cool completely.
6. Prepare the Frosting: In a saucepan, mix evaporated milk, egg yolks, butter, and both sugars. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
7. Add Coconut and Pecans: Remove from heat. Stir in coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
8. Frost and Chill: Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Chill for 1–2 hours before serving.

Serving Tips

Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.