Classic German Chocolate Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350°.
2. 2
   In small saucepan, over low heat, melt chocolate in water; stir.
3. 3
   In large bowl, beat sugar and shortening until fluffy.
4. 4
   Beat in egg yolks and vanilla.
5. 5
   Stir in chocolate mixture.
6. 6
   In medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt; add to batter alternately with buttermilk until blended.
7. 7
   In small bowl, beat egg whites until stiff but not dry; fold into batter.
8. 8
   Spread evenly into 3 greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans.
9. 9
   Bake for 30 minutes, or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.
10. 10
    Cool 15 minutes.
11. 11
    Remove from pans; cool completely.
12. 12
    Frost and top with Coconut Pecan Topping.