- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Slowly add the vegetable oil and mix well.
- Gradually add the hot water to the batter and mix until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Coconut Pecan Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until the mixture thickens, about 12-15 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mix well and let the frosting cool to room temperature.
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Stir in the cocoa powder and remove from heat.
- Add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Mix until the frosting is smooth.
To Assemble:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of the coconut pecan frosting on top of the first cake layer.
- Add the second cake layer on top and cover it with more coconut pecan frosting.
- Finally, place the third cake layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the chocolate frosting.
- You can decorate the cake with additional chopped pecans or chocolate shavings if desired.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy this classic German Chocolate Cake!
This indulgent cake will be a hit at any gathering, thanks to its rich, chocolatey layers and the sweet, nutty coconut pecan frosting.