German Chocolate Sheet Cake holds a special place in many households, including mine. Passed down through generations, this decadent dessert has become synonymous with birthdays and special occasions in my family. However, its origins are not quite what we initially assumed. Join me on a journey as we explore the rich history and flavors behind this beloved treat, and learn how to create a unique rendition that will surely become a new family favorite.
Recipe: German Chocolate Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a cherished tradition in my family. This delightful cake boasts a rich cocoa flavor, complemented by a luscious coconut-pecan frosting that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the secrets to crafting this indulgent delight.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups white sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- ½ cup shortening
- 4 oz German baking chocolate
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
For the delectable frosting, you’ll need:
- 12 oz can evaporated milk
- 3 egg yolks
- ¾ cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups shredded coconut
- 1 ½ cups pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
Preparation: Now that we have our ingredients assembled, it’s time to embark on the baking journey:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and generously grease a sheet pan, ensuring that every corner is coated to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cocoa powder, whisking until well incorporated.
- In a small saucepan, bring the water, butter, shortening, and German baking chocolate to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once melted and smooth, pour this decadent mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Gradually add the buttermilk, baking soda, salt, eggs, and vanilla to the batter, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before proceeding.
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting: No German Chocolate Sheet Cake is complete without its signature frosting, so let’s whip up a batch of creamy goodness:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, egg yolks, butter, sugar, and brown sugar over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for 10-12 minutes or until thickened to perfection.
- Once the frosting has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
- Allow the frosting to cool slightly before generously spreading it over the cooled cake, ensuring every inch is covered in a layer of deliciousness.
Conclusion:
German Chocolate Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of love, tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious treats with loved ones. While its origins may not be as German as we once thought, its irresistible flavors and rich history continue to captivate taste buds around the world. So, the next time you’re craving a slice of something sweet, why not whip up a batch of this beloved cake and create new memories with those you hold dear? After all, there’s nothing quite like the simple pleasure of indulging in a slice of homemade goodness.
Source of the picture : allwecook
