Desserts > Cake > German

German Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Electric mixer
- Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the coconut flakes, pecans, and chocolate chips.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Assembly:
1. Place one of the cooled cakes on a serving plate.
2. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top of the cake.
3. Place the second cake on top of the frosted cake.
4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Time:
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 590
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 69g
Protein: 6g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple syrup.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with almond milk.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips can be substituted with dark chocolate chips.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to the cake batter for added crunch.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the frosting for a nutty flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to sift the dry ingredients together to ensure a light and fluffy cake.
- Make sure to grease and flour the cake pans to ensure the cakes don't stick.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to ensure the frosting doesn't melt.

Storage Instructions:
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
- The cake can be reheated in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

Presentation Ideas:
- Decorate the cake with fresh berries or edible flowers.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake.

Garnishes:
- Shaved chocolate
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Chopped nuts

Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh fruit
- Whipped cream

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Potato salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a tablespoon of buttermilk to the batter.
- If the cake is too dense, add an extra egg to the batter.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
- Make sure all utensils and surfaces are clean before use.
- Make sure to store the cake in the refrigerator.

Food History:
German chocolate cake is a classic American dessert that was first created in the 1950s. It is believed to have been inspired by a type of baking chocolate that was created by an American baker named Sam German.

Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a rich and decadent flavor with notes of chocolate, coconut, and pecans. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the cake perfectly.

Serving Suggestions:
This cake is best served at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Chocolatey, Creamy, Decadent