German Chocolate Surprise Cake
Dive into decadence with this German Chocolate Surprise Cake, a rich masterpiece that combines moist chocolate cake, a luscious coconut-pecan filling, and a velvety ganache frosting. This indulgent dessert takes classic German chocolate cake to the next level, adding a surprise layer of nutty, caramelized goodness nestled between two perfectly baked chocolate layers. Made with pantry staples like cocoa powder and sweetened condensed milk, along with the irresistible crunch of pecans and shredded coconut, this cake is as delightful to make as it is to eat. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a show-stopping treat, this cake is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoy it solo—every bite promises a blissful balance of textures and flavors.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1.5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1.25 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Dust with a little cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, and beat on medium speed until smooth.
Slowly mix in the boiling water until the batter is thin and smooth. Set aside.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cakes are baking, prepare the coconut-pecan surprise filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and pecans. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
To make the ganache frosting, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and add the butter. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool and thicken slightly.
Once the cakes have cooled completely, level the tops of the layers with a serrated knife if necessary.
Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread the coconut-pecan filling evenly across the top.
Place the second cake layer on top and press gently to secure. Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a rustic look.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the ganache to set.
Slice and serve your German Chocolate Surprise Cake, and enjoy the delightful layers of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
8685 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 462.0 g | 592% | |
| Saturated Fat | 195.2 g | 976% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 68.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 838 mg | 279% | |
| Sodium | 6042 mg | 263% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1155.4 g | 420% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 104.8 g | 374% | |
| Total Sugars | 796.0 g | ||
| Protein | 141.7 g | 283% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.5 mcg | 28% | |
| Calcium | 1836 mg | 141% | |
| Iron | 51.5 mg | 286% | |
| Potassium | 5617 mg | 120% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
