Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water.
2. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on low speed for 30 seconds, then on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
2. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake according to the cake mix package instructions. Typically, this will take about 25-30 minutes for round pans or 35-40 minutes for a 9×13 inch pan.
3. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
4. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Add the Frosting

1. Once the cakes have cooled completely, you’re ready to frost.
2. If using round cake pans, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the coconut pecan frosting over the top of the first layer.
3. Place the second layer on top and spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides.
4. For a 9×13 inch cake, simply spread the entire can of frosting over the top of the cooled cake.

Step 5: Serve

1. After frosting the cake, slice and serve your German Chocolate Cake immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.