Bon Appetit German Chocolate Cake

Imagine taking a bite of a rich, decadent slice of cake that simply melts in your mouth, the perfect combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans bursting with flavor. Welcome to our recipe for Bon Appetit German Chocolate Cake! This classic dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion, from cozy gatherings with friends to special celebrations. With its moist chocolate layers and luscious coconut-pecan frosting, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

**Ingredients:**

For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup hot water

For the coconut-pecan frosting:
– 1 cup evaporated milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/3 cups shredded coconut
– 1 cup chopped pecans

**Instructions:**

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

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until well combined.

5. Slowly pour in the hot water and mix until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. While the cakes are baking, prepare the coconut-pecan frosting. In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 10-12 minutes.

8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Allow the frosting to cool slightly.

9. Once the cakes have finished baking, let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

10. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of coconut-pecan frosting on top. Repeat with the second and third layers, stacking them on top of each other.

11. Use the remaining frosting to cover the sides of the cake, creating a rustic finish.

12. Slice and serve your Bon Appetit German Chocolate Cake to enjoy a taste of delicious indulgence!

Delight your loved ones with this scrumptious cake that brings a taste of indulgence to any gathering. The combination of rich chocolate cake and luscious coconut-pecan frosting is a match made in dessert heaven. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and get ready to bake up a storm with this irresistible recipe. Cheers to baking joy and happy memories shared around the table!