A frosting recipe no Southern baker should be without.

Or Mama, for that matter.

German chocolate frosting, also known as coconut-pecan frosting, is the perfect icing for aGerman chocolate cake.

coconut pecan frosting - Southern Living

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Coconut-pecan frosting begins withtoasted pecans.

You will want to verify you’ve got a glass of milk on hand, though.

It can also be frozen for for up to three months for longer storage.

ingredients for coconut-pecan frosting - Southern Living

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Bring to room temperature before using for a spreadable consistency.

Why This Recipe Gets Rave Reviews

It’s hard to doubt so many five-star reviews.

If you’ve bought pre-made coconut-pecan frosting in the past, this is your sign to upgrade to homemade.

pecans on baking sheet

Credit:Courtney West / Southern Living

The ease and flavor of this coconut-pecan frosting recipe just can’t be beat.

OneSouthern Livingcommunity member said, “OMG, so easy and the taste is unbelievable!

I will never buy coconut pecan frosting pre-made again.”

ingredients in sauce pan

Credit:Courtney West / Southern Living

My southern grandmother took the recipe and she makes it and we will never use another recipe again."

Cool completely (about 20 minutes).

saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, 3 to 4 minutes or until butter melts and sugar dissolves.

coconut pecan frosting in sauce pan

Credit:Courtney West / Southern Living

Transfer mixture to a bowl.

Let stand, stirring occasionally, 45 minutes or until cooled and spreading consistency.

Use as directed by your recipe.

coconut-pecan frosting on chocolate cake layer

Credit:Courtney West / Southern Living

you might test the final consistency by placing a spoonful onto a frozen plate.

Walnuts or other types of nuts can be substituted in the place of the pecans.

The sugar may not have dissolved completely into the frosting while cooking, or it may have crystallized.

Try heating the frosting again with a spoon of corn syrup to help smooth it out.