German chocolate frosting is an icing that is traditionally served with German chocolate cake. This frosting, despite its name, does not contain chocolate; it is simply used with a cake that does contain chocolate and gives the icing its name. This is usually made by heating evaporated milk, egg yolks, sugar, and a pinch of salt together until it thickens to the desired consistency. After the German chocolate frosting has thickened, shredded coconut and chopped pecans are added, and the mixture is allowed to cool before being used to ice a cake.
German chocolate frosting gets its name from the fact that it’s often served with German chocolate cake, which is made with semi-sweet chocolate and buttermilk. Although this frosting can be used on almost any cake, it is almost always used to top German chocolate cake, so the two have a strong connection. Coconut pecan frosting, on the other hand, is another name for it. If you’re looking for a recipe for German chocolate frosting, look for German chocolate cake recipes, as they frequently include icing instructions.
German chocolate frosting is simple to make, and it starts with evaporated milk, egg yolks, and sugar in a small pot or sauce pan. These ingredients are then heated, stirring constantly, until they begin to bubble but do not quite reach a rolling boil. They thicken and take on the right consistency for German chocolate frosting, which is slightly creamy and about the same color as peanut butter, as they heat together.
The coconut flakes and chopped pecans used in German chocolate frosting can be purchased pre-packaged, but they can also be made using other methods. Fresh coconut can be shredded or grated to make the required amount of flakes, but it is a time-consuming process. Whole pecans, lightly roasted in a pan or oven, are preferred by some. After that, they’re chopped into small pieces that can be used in the icing.
The coconut and pecans are then combined with the heated, thickened icing to make German chocolate frosting. Allow to cool on the counter or in the refrigerator after thoroughly stirring together. After the frosting has thickened and cooled, it can be used to ice a cake, which is usually made up of two or more layers.