First Cousin To German Chocolate Cake
A moist yellow cake with rich chocolate flavor, topped with classic German Chocolate Frosting, perfect for celebrations and chocolate lovers seeking a delicious, easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour batter into 3 greased or parchment-lined 8 or 9-inch cake pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Frost with German Chocolate Frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the water with buttermilk. If you want to reduce fat, you can use unsweetened applesauce in place of Crisco oil. Make sure to mix the pudding powder thoroughly to avoid lumps. This cake pairs beautifully with the German Chocolate Frosting, which enhances its chocolaty goodness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful cake at gatherings or parties, and consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. It also goes well with a light fruit salad, like the Fruit Dressing For Red Raspberry Salad, to balance the richness. This cake makes a fantastic centerpiece for birthday celebrations or holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through, being careful not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of First Cousin To German Chocolate Cake contains roughly 368 calories, with 6g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 543mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of pudding mix, such as white chocolate or butterscotch, to create a variation of this cake. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor profile will change, but it can still be delicious.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Start checking around the 30-minute mark, as baking times may vary depending on your oven and the pans used.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap after cooling and store them at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).