What Makes German Chocolate Cake Distinct From Its Classic Counterpart?
By Allie Ward
While German chocolate cake and classic chocolate cake share a chocolatey foundation, the type of chocolate used and coconut-pecan frosting set the German version apart.
German chocolate cake uses a particular kind of baking chocolate as its base, which has a milder, sweeter profile thanks to lecithin, a fatty substance derived from egg yolks.
German chocolate cake's signature frosting features shredded coconut and chopped pecans mixed into a thick, caramel-like sauce made from evaporated milk, sugar, and egg yolks.
The frosting is decorated with pecans and coconut, and its unique texture and flavor set it apart from the traditional chocolate ganache or buttercream for classic chocolate cakes.