Crocker German chocolate cake

Moist chocolate cake with a gooey, nutty coconut-pecan frosting — made simple with a cake mix.

 Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

• Cooling Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: About 2 hours

• Difficulty: Easy to Medium

• Servings: 12–16 slices

 Ingredients

Cake:

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix (like Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker)

• Ingredients listed on the box (usually eggs, oil, water) — follow package instructions

Coconut-Pecan Frosting (Classic):

• 1 cup evaporated milk

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 egg yolks, beaten

• ½ cup unsalted butter

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup chopped pecans

 Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the German chocolate cake mix box.

3. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.

4. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

6. In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.

7. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and golden brown — about 12–15 minutes. This is key: keep stirring to prevent curdling.

8. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mix well and let cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

9. Once cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.

10. Spread a generous amount of coconut-pecan frosting over the top.

11. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the top and sides with remaining frosting.

12. For a rustic, homemade look, you can spread frosting with a spatula or spoon.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream

• Pair with a strong cup of coffee or iced tea

• Garnish with extra chopped pecans on top for crunch

 Storage

• Cover cake and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

 Nutrition Info (Per Slice – Approximate)

 Tips & Variations

• For an extra moist cake, brush layers lightly with sweetened coconut milk or simple syrup before frosting.

• Use toasted coconut and pecans for a deeper flavor.

• Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred.

• For a fancier finish, decorate with chocolate shavings or curls.

 Final Thoughts

This Crocker German Chocolate Cake recipe makes it easy to create the classic southern dessert that everyone loves — rich chocolate layers paired with that signature gooey coconut-pecan frosting. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want a slice of heaven