White German Chocolate Cake With A Cheesecake Center Recipe

Heavenly White German Chocolate Cake Cheesecake Center Recipe

Sweet layers of white german chocolate cake have been my secret weekend indulgence for years.

Creamy cheesecake nestled between delicate chocolate layers creates an unexpected dessert experience.

Rich frosting complements the delicate cake texture perfectly.

Bakers looking for something extraordinary will adore this recipe’s unique combination.

Smooth cream cheese filling adds surprising depth to each decadent slice.

Professional pastry techniques merge with home kitchen comfort in this elegant dessert.

FAQs

  • Why is it called a White German Chocolate Cake?

The name comes from using white cake mix instead of traditional chocolate cake, and the classic German chocolate frosting with coconut and pecans, creating a unique twist on the original recipe.

  • Can I make this cake without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

  • What makes the frosting different from regular frosting?

This traditional German chocolate frosting is cooked on the stovetop, creating a rich, caramel-like texture with toasted coconut and pecans, which gives it a unique flavor and consistency compared to standard buttercream.

White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center: Decadence Defined

  • Craft Delectable Layers: This white German chocolate cake creates stunning, moist layers with a luxurious cheesecake center that transforms an ordinary dessert into a spectacular showstopper.
  • Foolproof Baking Adventure: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, the recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward mixing techniques, guaranteeing delicious results without complicated steps.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Celebration Treat: Ideal for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings, this decadent cake impresses guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
  • Customizable Culinary Experience: Easily adaptable with potential variations like adding different nuts or adjusting frosting thickness, making it a versatile dessert for creative home bakers.

Ingredients for White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

For the Cake Base:
  • White Cake Mix: A convenient foundation for creating a light and tender cake.
  • Buttermilk: Adds moisture and helps create a soft, tender crumb.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures a moist and delicate cake texture.
  • Egg Whites: Provide structure and help the cake rise.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
For the Frosting:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and creamy texture to the frosting.
  • Sugar: Sweetens and helps thicken the frosting.
  • Evaporated Milk: Creates a smooth and silky consistency.
  • Egg Yolks: Add richness and help create a custard-like frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.
For the Frosting Additions:
  • Shredded Coconut, Chopped Pecans: Add texture, crunch, and traditional German chocolate cake flavor.

How to Bake White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

How to Bake White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Warm up the oven to 350F. Coat two round cake pans with butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Set aside clean baking tools and wire cooling rack.

Step 2: Create Cake Batter

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine these ingredients:
  • White cake mix
  • Buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil
  • Egg whites
  • Vanilla extract

Blend everything using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture looks smooth and silky.

Step 3: Fill Cake Pans

Divide the batter equally between the two prepared pans, making sure the surface looks even.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Slide the pans into the preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 5: Cool Cake Layers

Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes. Gently transfer to a wire rack and let them cool completely.

Step 6: Craft Decadent Frosting

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add:
  • Sugar
  • Evaporated milk
  • Egg yolks
  • Vanilla extract

Stir constantly until the mixture transforms into a golden, thick consistency (about 10-12 minutes).

Step 7: Finish Frosting

Remove from heat and fold in:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans

Let the frosting cool slightly and become spreadable.

Step 8: Assemble Delightful Cake

Layer the frosting between cake rounds, then generously cover the top and sides with the remaining mixture.

Step 9: Serve and Savor

Slice the White German Chocolate Cake and enjoy every luxurious bite!

Tips for Perfect White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

  • Swap buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of white vinegar for a quick substitute if you don't have buttermilk on hand.
  • Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for smoother cake batter and better volume when beating.
  • Prevent cake from sticking by lining cake pans with parchment paper in addition to greasing and flouring.
  • Cool frosting completely before spreading to achieve the ideal thick, spreadable consistency without running down the cake sides.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain moisture and freshness.

Variations on White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Replace white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Dairy-Free Dream: Swap buttermilk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace evaporated milk with coconut cream for a lactose-free version.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Omit pecans from the frosting and substitute with toasted sunflower seeds or skip nuts entirely, maintaining the cake's rich flavor profile.
  • Vegan Transformation: Use a plant-based egg replacer, coconut cream, vegan butter, and a dairy-free white cake mix to create a completely animal-product-free dessert.

Pairing Ideas for White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

  • Pair with Rich Coffee Companions: Serve alongside a velvety cappuccino or smooth espresso to complement the cake's sweet coconut-pecan frosting, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
  • Enhance with Dessert Wine Magic: Select a sweet Moscato or Late Harvest Riesling that matches the cake's creamy texture and balances its rich, decadent profile.
  • Create Creamy Contrast Plate: Accompany the cake with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or smooth custard, which will cool down the warm frosting and add extra luxurious dimensions.
  • Elevate with Nutty Side Treats: Add roasted almonds or candied pecans on the side plate to echo the cake's pecan notes and provide a delightful crunchy texture contrast.

Storage Suggestions for White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.

Carefully wrap the entire frosted cake in two layers of plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Place individual cake slices in sealed containers or wrap them separately in plastic wrap. Keep refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for best taste and texture.

If serving within 24 hours, keep the cake covered at room temperature in a cake carrier or under a cake dome to maintain moisture and freshness.

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White German Chocolate Cake With A Cheesecake Center Recipe

White German Chocolate Cake With A Cheesecake Center Recipe


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4.6 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet layers of white German chocolate embrace a luscious cheesecake center, creating a dessert masterpiece that delights sophisticated palates. Creamy, indulgent textures and rich flavors invite you to savor each memorable bite of this extraordinary cake.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Cake Ingredients:

  • 1 package white cake mix
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) evaporated milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping/Garnish Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans with grease and flour coating.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together white cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg whites, and vanilla extract until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture.
  3. Distribute the batter equally between the prepared cake pans, ensuring an even surface.
  4. Place pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge clean when inserted into the cake’s center.
  5. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire cooling rack for complete cooling.
  6. Create the frosting by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then incorporate sugar, evaporated milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
  7. Continuously stir the mixture, cooking until it transforms into a golden-brown, thick consistency, which typically takes 10-12 minutes.
  8. Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in shredded coconut and chopped pecans, allowing the frosting to cool and slightly thicken.
  9. Assemble the cake by spreading the coconut-pecan frosting between cake layers and covering the entire exterior of the cake.
  10. Slice the cake and serve this luxurious white German chocolate dessert, ready to be savored.

Notes

  • Customize the cake mix by using a premium white cake mix for enhanced flavor and texture.
  • Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better incorporation and smoother batter.
  • Replace buttermilk with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a richer, tangier taste and added moisture.
  • Check cake doneness early to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry cake.
  • Stabilize frosting by chilling it briefly if it becomes too runny during preparation.
  • Transform into a gluten-free version by selecting a gluten-free white cake mix and verifying all ingredients.
  • Create a lighter option by using reduced-fat ingredients and substituting some nuts with toasted coconut flakes.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 392 kcal
  • Sugar: 31 g
  • Sodium: 196 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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