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German Chocolate Sheet Cake

This German Chocolate Sheet Cake. It's one of those desserts that has been passed down through the generations in my family, and for good reason!
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, German
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients

Cake:

Frosting:

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a 13x18 inch sheet pan.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder.
  • In a saucepan, combine the water, butter, shortening, and chopped chocolate. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth.
  • Pour the chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until fully incorporated.
  • Whisk in the buttermilk, baking soda, salt, eggs, and vanilla until you have a smooth batter.
  • Pour batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it out evenly.
  • Bake for 20-22 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
  • For the frosting: In a saucepan, whisk together the evaporated milk, egg yolks, butter, and both sugars. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  • Once simmering, continue cooking for 10-12 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened to a spoonable consistency.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the coconut, pecans, and vanilla.
  • Let frosting cool slightly for 5-10 minutes until no longer piping hot.
  • Pour frosting over the cooled cake and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly.
  • Refrigerate the frosted cake for 1-2 hours before slicing and serving.