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Classic German Chocolate Cake Frosting Recipe

Classic German Chocolate Cake Frosting Recipe


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4.5 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Rich layers of German chocolate cake shine with a luxurious coconut-pecan frosting that whispers sweet memories of traditional German baking. Creamy caramel notes and nutty crunch make this dessert a delightful celebration of flavor you’ll want to savor slowly.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

Coconut and Nut Components:

  • 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Flavor Enhancer:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk egg yolks and evaporated milk together, creating a smooth base for the frosting.
  2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching, until it thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency (approximately 10-12 minutes).
  3. Remove the pan from heat and incorporate granulated sugar, mixing until completely dissolved.
  4. Add softened butter to the warm mixture, stirring until it melts completely and creates a silky, uniform texture.
  5. Pour in vanilla extract, blending it thoroughly to enhance the flavor profile.
  6. Gently fold shredded coconut and chopped pecans into the warm mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
  7. Allow the frosting to cool to room temperature, which will help it set and become spreadable.
  8. Once cooled, apply the frosting generously between cake layers and over the entire surface of the cake.

Notes

  • Toast pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add depth to the frosting’s richness.
  • Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to control the overall sweetness and create a more balanced taste profile.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth blending and prevent lumpy texture during cooking.
  • Cool the frosting completely before spreading to achieve the ideal spreadable consistency and prevent melting on the cake.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 295
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 19 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 83 mg