Is there a difference between chocolate cake and German chocolate cake?

Yes, definitely. While a standard chocolate cake typically uses dark or unsweetened cocoa with a whipped buttercream or ganache frosting, German chocolate cake is defined by its sweet, mild chocolate base and unique coconut-pecan filling. The flavor is lighter, more caramelized, and the texture includes chewy coconut and crunchy nuts—nothing like your average chocolate cake.

What makes a cake German chocolate?

The term “German chocolate” actually comes from Samuel German, who developed a specific type of sweet baking chocolate in the 1850s. A deep dive into the origin offers more context if you’re curious. A German chocolate cake recipe typically uses this type of chocolate or replicates its flavor with added sugar and milk. But it’s the custard-style coconut-pecan frosting that truly defines the cake.

What cake mix is closest to German chocolate?

If you're short on time and prefer a shortcut, look for boxed mixes labeled specifically as “German chocolate.” These are typically lighter and sweeter than dark chocolate mixes. However, no mix can truly replace the richness of a homemade German chocolate cake made from scratch.

What is the world’s most famous chocolate cake?

Globally, cakes like the Sachertorte from Austria or the Black Forest cake from Germany are well known. But in the United States, the best German chocolate cake recipe is consistently among the most requested—especially for birthdays and celebrations—thanks to its nostalgic flavor and signature filling.

German Chocolate Cake Recipe – 1 Authentic Homemade Winner

Name: German Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 2 cups evaporated milk; 2 cups white sugar; 6 egg yolks; 1 cup butter; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups chopped pecans; 2 cups sweetened flaked coconut

Description

A rich and moist homemade German chocolate cake with layers of deep cocoa flavor and a signature coconut pecan frosting that’s gooey, nutty, and unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups granulated sugar

3/4 cup cocoa powder

2 tsp baking powder

1½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1 cup milk

½ cup vegetable oil

2 eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

2 cups evaporated milk

2 cups white sugar

6 egg yolks

1 cup butter

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups chopped pecans

2 cups sweetened flaked coconut

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 8-inch pans and line with parchment.

2. Whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

3. Beat eggs and sugar in a mixer on medium-high for 3 minutes.

4. Slowly add oil while mixing on low.

5. Mix in vanilla extract and lemon juice.

6. Add dry ingredients and sour cream alternately with milk.

7. Divide batter into pans and bake 35–40 minutes.

8. Cool in pans 15 minutes, then cool completely on wire racks.

9. Make frosting by combining sugars, butter, yolks, and milk over medium heat.

10. Cook until thickened (10–12 min), then stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.

11. Cool completely before spreading.

12. Layer cake with frosting between and on top.

13. Let set 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Serve at room temperature for best texture.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Cakes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520
Sugar: 45g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg

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