Prepare boxed cake mix using ingredients and instructions from box. When done baking, transfer cake pans to wire rack. Let cool for about 10 minutes, then carefully invert cake onto wire rack (place wire rack on top of cake pan, then quickly and carefully turn over, to release cake from pan. Let cake layers cool to room temperature before frosting.
To make frosting (make while cake is baking): Cook butter, evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks and vanilla in medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook for a full 12 minutes, stirring often, until mixture thickens. Remove pan from heat.
Stir in shredded coconut and chopped pecans until fully blended. Let frosting cool to room temperature before frosting cake layers. (You can speed up the cooling process by stirring the frosting often, if desired).
To frost cake, place one layer onto serving platter. Spread a thin layer of frosting over top of cake layer. Place another layer of cake on top of frosting. Carefully spread frosting over top and sides of cake until covered. Slice cake, serve... and ENJOY!
NOTE: This makes enough frosting for a 13x9 or two layer cake. If you want more frosting for your cake, use these ingredients: 1 can (12 oz.) evap. milk, 1½ cups sugar, 3/4 cup butter, 4 yolks, 1½ tsp. vanilla, 1 pkg (7 oz.) shredded coconut, and 1½ cups chopped pecans. (this will make 4½ cups total)
Easy German Chocolate Cake with Homemade Frosting https://www.thegratefulgirlcooks.com/german-chocolate-cake/