Description

This Homemade German Chocolate Cake is pure decadence—moist, rich, and layered with glossy chocolate ganache and a crown of buttery pecans. It’s a celebration of flavor and texture, perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving an indulgent treat. With its irresistible chocolate base and beautifully crunchy topping, it checks every box for an easy recipe, dinner ideas dessert, or even party food ideas. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around your kitchen. It’s an elegant yet approachable cake that delivers both wow-factor and comfort.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups granulated sugar

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tsp baking powder

1 1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup hot water or brewed coffee

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream

8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

For the Topping:

1 cup chopped pecans

1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)

1/2 cup crushed chocolate toffee bars (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment.
Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine wet ingredients in a separate bowl: buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix well.
Gradually combine wet and dry mixtures. Stir in the hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth.
Pour batter evenly into pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn onto wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare ganache by pouring hot cream over chopped chocolate. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Assemble by spreading ganache between layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate with a ring of chopped pecans, coconut, and crushed toffee on top. Press cake crumbs onto the bottom edge if desired.
Chill for 30 minutes to set the ganache before slicing.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert