German Chocolate Cake is a classic for a reason: the rich, dark chocolate frosting perfectly complements the moist, nutty cake. But sometimes, you crave that deliciousness without the commitment of a whole cake. That's where German Chocolate Cake Bars come in! These convenient squares deliver all the flavor in a manageable, shareable (or not!) package. This recipe provides a deliciously easy way to enjoy this beloved dessert.
What Makes a German Chocolate Cake Bar Recipe So Appealing?
The beauty of cake bars lies in their simplicity. They require less fuss than a layer cake, cutting down on preparation and baking time. They're perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or simply satisfying a sudden craving for something sweet. This recipe focuses on delivering a moist, flavorful cake base and a luscious, intensely chocolatey frosting, all in convenient bar form.
What are the key ingredients in a German Chocolate Cake Bar?
The core ingredients remain faithful to the classic cake:
- Cake: Butter, sugar, eggs, flour, buttermilk (or sour milk), baking soda, baking powder, salt, coconut, pecans (or walnuts), and cocoa powder. The combination of these creates a moist and flavorful cake base, enriched by the texture and flavor of the nuts and coconut.
- Frosting: Butter, powdered sugar, evaporated milk, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. This rich, dark chocolate frosting is the star of the show, balancing the sweetness of the cake and adding a decadent touch.
How do you make German Chocolate Cake Bars from scratch?
This recipe is designed for ease and delicious results.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Cream together butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Add coconut and nuts: Stir in the coconut, pecans, and cocoa powder.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Make the frosting: While the cake is cooling, make the frosting by beating together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the evaporated milk and cocoa powder, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top evenly with the chocolate frosting.
- Cut and serve: Cut into bars and enjoy!
How long do German Chocolate Cake Bars last?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal freshness and texture.
Can I freeze German Chocolate Cake Bars?
Yes! You can freeze frosted or unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Are there variations to this German Chocolate Cake Bar recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, add chocolate chips to the batter, or use a different type of frosting. You can even add a layer of caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of German Chocolate Cake. The ease of preparation and the satisfying result make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy!
