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For as long as I can remember, German Chocolate Sheet Cake has held a special place in our hearts and on our dessert table. It’s a beloved family favorite, passed down through generations, with my grandmother’s renowned recipe carefully tucked away in every family member’s recipe box. My dad, in particular, has always requested this cake on his birthday. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that this cake isn’t actually German! Regardless of its origins, this cake is undeniably a classic that brings everyone together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich, chocolatey, and topped with a decadent frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this sheet cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, the combination of coconut and pecans in the frosting adds a delightful texture and flavor that’s hard to resist.
Nutritional Benefits
- Coconut adds healthy fats and fiber.
- Pecans are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, contributing to heart health.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter
- ½ cup shortening
- 4 oz. German baking chocolate
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1 can (12 oz.) evaporated milk
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup grated coconut
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Cooking Tips
- For an extra chocolatey flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder.
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a sheet pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cocoa powder, whisking to blend.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, butter, shortening, and German baking chocolate. Bring to a boil, then pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
- Add the eggs, baking soda, buttermilk, salt, and vanilla, stirring well after each addition.
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
2. Make the Frosting:
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg yolks, and evaporated milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook, stirring regularly, for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours before serving to allow the frosting to set.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this rich cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. This cake is also perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet end to a long day.
Conclusion
This German Chocolate Sheet Cake is more than just dessert; it’s a slice of family tradition and a delightful way to celebrate special moments. Each bite is a reminder of the love and joy that comes from sharing food with those we care about. Let us know how your version turns out and share your favorite memories with this classic treat!
