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easy German chocolate cake recipe with rich coconut-almond frosting on top

3-Step Easy German Chocolate Cake Recipe That Tastes


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This easy German chocolate cake recipe combines the ease of a boxed mix with the richness of a homemade coconut-almond frosting for a truly unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re craving a German chocolate cake with coconut frosting, looking for a simple German chocolate cake to whip up quickly, or want a German chocolate cake recipe that’s easy enough for any skill level, this one’s a keeper. It’s the ultimate boxed German chocolate cake with homemade frosting moist, nostalgic, and perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just-because days.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Cake:
  • 1 (15.25 oz) package German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • For the Coconut-Almond Frosting:
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tbsp vanilla
  • 1 (7 oz) package sweetened flaked coconut
  • 1 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

  • Prep the Oven and Pans
    Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Set aside.
  • Mix the Cake Batter
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
  • Bake the Cake
    Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool the Layers
    Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and place on wire racks to cool completely.
  • Make the Frosting
    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, evaporated milk, and beaten eggs. Cook, stirring constantly, for 10–12 minutes or until thickened.
  • Add Flavor and Texture
    Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla, shredded coconut, and sliced almonds. Let the frosting cool to a spreadable consistency.
  • Assemble the Cake
    Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top (and sides, if desired).

Notes

  • No buttermilk? Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  • Make ahead tip: The frosting can be made 1 day in advance. Refrigerate, then bring to room temp before using.
  • Don’t skip stirring the frosting constantly this keeps the eggs from scrambling.
  • You can use pecans instead of almonds for a more traditional Southern-style touch.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 42g
  • Sodium: 370mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 64g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: easy german chocolate cake recipe, german chocolate cake recipe, coconut almond frosting, chocolate cake with frosting, boxed cake mix recipes