Go Back
–+ servings
Chocolate Pecan Frosting
Coconut–Pecan Frosting is a beloved classic most famously paired with German chocolate cake, though it enhances many other desserts with its rich, nutty sweetness. This stovetop frosting blends creamy canned milk, butter, and egg yolks with sugar to form a custard-like base before being folded together with shredded coconut and crunchy pecans. The result is a thick, spoonable frosting with a uniquely chewy texture and caramelized flavor profile. Popularized in American baking during the mid-20th century, this frosting stands out because it is cooked rather than whipped, creating depth of flavor and a glossy finish perfect for spreading over cakes, cupcakes, and bars.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 52 minutes
Course condiment
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 288 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup canned milk (evaporated milk)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 egg yolks
  • ¼ lb butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick )
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ⅓ cups coconut (shredded )
  • 1 cup pecans (chopped )

Instructions
 

Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients

  • In a medium saucepan, combine canned milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Cook and Thicken

  • Cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes.
  • Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and coats a spoon.

Step 3: Add Mix-ins

  • Remove from heat.
  • Stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans.

Step 4: Cool and Finish

  • Beat or stir until the frosting cools and reaches a spreadable consistency.
  • Use immediately or refrigerate and gently bring back to room temperature before spreading.

Tips

  • Toast pecans first for deeper nutty flavor.
  • Use unsweetened coconut if you prefer less sweetness.
  • Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
  • Substitute brown sugar for part of the granulated sugar for caramel notes.
  • Add 1 to 2 tbsp of rum or bourbon for adult desserts.
  • Spread on warm cake for slight soaking effect.
  • Chill slightly to thicken faster before spreading.
  • Use as filling between cake layers or on bars and brownies.
  • Store refrigerated up to 5 days in an airtight container.
  • Gently warm to soften if too thick.

Nutrition

Calories: 288kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 4gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 65mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 2gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 0.7mgCalcium: 95mgIron: 0.9mg
Keyword classic frosting, coconut pecan frosting, comfort food, german chocolate cake, holiday baking, homemade frosting, vintage baking
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!