German Chocolate Sheet Cake Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in one of the most decadent desserts ever created? The German Chocolate Sheet Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful treat that will have your taste buds dancing. This classic cake, often made for special occasions, combines layers of luscious chocolate with a unique coconut-pecan topping, making it an unforgettable dessert that’s easy to share with a crowd.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bake the perfect German Chocolate Sheet Cake. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe will ensure your cake is not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy!

Ingredients for German Chocolate Sheet Cake

To make this delicious dessert, you’ll need two main parts: the cake base and the coconut-pecan frosting.

Cake Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process for richer flavor)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Coconut-Pecan Frosting Ingredients:

• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Equipment

Before starting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re fully mixed.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until fully combined.
3. Gradually stir in the boiling water. The batter will appear thin, but this is what makes the cake moist and tender.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

While the cake is baking, it’s time to make the signature coconut-pecan frosting:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking or burning.
2. Once the mixture thickens (about 12-15 minutes), remove it from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
3. Let the frosting cool down until it thickens further. The consistency should be spreadable but firm enough to hold on top of the cake.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has fully cooled, evenly spread the coconut-pecan frosting over the top. Make sure to cover every corner for that perfect bite. If desired, you can add extra chopped pecans or even drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a more decadent look.

Tips for Success

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth and well-mixed batter, make sure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature. This allows for a more consistent texture.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be gentle and mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
3. Allow the Cake to Cool Completely: Don’t rush the cooling process before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty, runny topping that won’t hold.
4. Store Properly: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, it freezes well. Just wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

Why You’ll Love This German Chocolate Sheet Cake

• Moist and Tender Cake: Thanks to the boiling water and cocoa, the cake is perfectly moist, with a deep chocolate flavor.
• Unique Coconut-Pecan Frosting: The rich, buttery frosting adds an irresistible texture and nutty flavor, making every bite a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
• Ideal for Gatherings: As a sheet cake, this recipe is perfect for sharing at family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday parties.
• Simple to Make: Despite the luxurious taste, this cake is straightforward and uses basic ingredients that you likely already have at home.

Variations and Customizations

If you want to put your personal spin on the traditional German Chocolate Sheet Cake, try these fun variations:

1. Chocolate Ganache: For an extra layer of chocolatey goodness, drizzle a rich ganache over the coconut-pecan frosting.
2. Caramel Swirl: Add swirls of caramel sauce to the frosting for an additional depth of flavor.
3. Nut-Free Option: If you’re allergic to nuts or serving someone who is, you can omit the pecans and replace them with more shredded coconut or even toasted oats for texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The German Chocolate Sheet Cake is a timeless dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. The combination of moist chocolate cake and indulgent coconut-pecan frosting creates a truly special treat that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a foolproof recipe that you can return to again and again. Enjoy baking, and even more importantly, enjoy eating this decadent creation!