German Chocolate Filling

1 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: 12 m Total: 22 m Intermediate
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Perfect for cakes and sweet dough tarts! Being from a large family, we loved when Momma made her German chocolate cake with this coconut-pecan filling. The kids would fight to lick the spoon.

Ingredients

1 servings
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 block butter
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 1/4 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla (I only use Big Chief)
  • 1 cup pecans chopped
  • 1 1/4 cup coconut

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, blend egg yolks into sugar, then add butter, evaporated milk and vanilla.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture reaches a gentle rolling boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring very often, for 12 minutes until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and coconut.
  5. Cool completely before frosting cake. Makes enough filling to frost one box cake mix.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why did my filling turn out too thin?

A: The filling needs the full 12 minutes of cooking time on low heat to thicken properly. If you rush it or don't stir often enough, it won't set up right. Make sure it's cooled completely too—it thickens more as it cools.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Yes! This filling keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading on your cake, or it'll be too stiff to work with.

Q: Why is my filling grainy or curdled?

A: This usually happens if the heat is too high or you don't stir constantly at the beginning. The egg yolks can scramble if the heat isn't controlled. Keep it at medium heat until boiling, then reduce to low.

Tips and Techniques

Constant stirring is key—especially in the first few minutes when the eggs are heating up. Use a wooden spoon and scrape the bottom of the pan to prevent scorching. The filling should coat the back of a spoon when it’s done cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • evaporated milk: half-and-half or heavy cream
  • pecans: walnuts
  • Big Chief vanilla: any pure vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

  • medium saucepan
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons

Historical Context

Though German chocolate cake isn’t German at all (it’s named after Sam German who developed the chocolate), this coconut-pecan filling became a beloved tradition across the South. Many Cajun families have their own version, and it’s a staple at potlucks and family gatherings across Louisiana.