White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress friends and family, this White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is just the ticket! This cake is a delightful combination of rich, creamy cheesecake nestled between layers of fluffy white chocolate cake, all topped off with a luscious coconut pecan frosting. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve something special.

What makes this recipe so close to my heart is how it combines two beloved desserts into one fabulous treat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, I promise this cake will bring smiles all around. So, let’s dive into the sweet details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent flavor: The combination of white chocolate and cheesecake creates an indulgent taste that everyone will adore.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can tackle this delicious cake.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the cheesecake layer in advance, making assembly a breeze when you’re ready to serve.
• Show-stopping presentation: Your guests will be wowed by the beautiful layers and rich frosting!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create something truly special. Let’s gather what we need for each component of our cake!

For the Cheesecake Center

• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the White German Chocolate Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz white German chocolate (or white chocolate), melted and cooled
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coconut Pecan Frosting (White Chocolate Version)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 4 oz white chocolate, melted

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize your White German Chocolate Cake:

• Add different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a unique texture and flavor twist.
• Change up the frosting: Try using a cream cheese frosting instead of coconut pecan for an extra tangy taste.
• Mix in fruit: Add diced strawberries or raspberries between the layers for a fruity surprise.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those who need it.

How to Make White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Adding sugar next helps to sweeten it perfectly. Mix in the eggs one at a time—this keeps everything nice and fluffy! Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour before pouring your batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake for about 40–45 minutes until just set in the center. Cooling completely is crucial here, so pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours—or overnight if you can wait!

Step 2: Make the White German Chocolate Cake

Now let’s get that delicious cake going! Preheat your oven again, but this time to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another larger bowl, cream together your room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy; this step adds air to your batter! Beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract before stirring in melted white chocolate—this is where that wonderful flavor comes from. Alternate adding your dry mixture with buttermilk until everything is combined. Divide your batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown—use a toothpick to check doneness! Once baked, let them cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Pecan Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, evaporated milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Stir constantly as it cooks until thickened—this usually takes about 10–12 minutes. Once thickened beautifully, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract along with shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Don’t forget that melted white chocolate; it adds such richness! Allow your frosting to cool completely before diving into assembly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

It’s finally time to put everything together! Start by placing one of your cooled cake layers on a serving plate. Carefully place that chilled cheesecake layer on top—it should fit perfectly! Add your second cake layer on top of the cheesecake gently. Now spread that lovely cooled frosting evenly over both the top and sides of your cake so every bite is full of flavor. Chill again for at least 30 minutes before slicing; this helps keep those layers intact!

And there you have it—a stunning White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center that’s sure to delight anyone lucky enough to enjoy it! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Making this cake is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep Ahead: Allow the cheesecake layer to chill overnight. This not only enhances its flavor but also makes it easier to handle when assembling the cake.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a light and fluffy batter, making your cake incredibly tender.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than a light cake.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate for both the cake and frosting. This elevates the flavor and gives your dessert that luxurious touch.

• Chill Before Serving: Letting the assembled cake chill for at least 30 minutes helps the layers set properly, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

How to Serve White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Serving your White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center can be as fun as making it! A little creativity goes a long way in making this dessert truly shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on top for a pop of color and tartness that balances the sweetness.

• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint can brighten up the presentation and add an aromatic touch that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this rich cake, providing a cool contrast to its warmth and texture.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve fluffy whipped coconut cream on the side. It adds extra coconut flavor that matches beautifully with the frosting.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can lighten up the meal and offers a crunchy contrast to the soft cake layers.

• Coffee or Tea: Consider serving slices of this cake alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The warmth and bitterness of these beverages complement the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Enjoy serving this indulgent dessert! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, your guests will surely be impressed by both its looks and taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert whenever the craving strikes! Here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it will keep well for about a week.
• Always cover the exposed parts of the cake with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• You can also slice the cake and freeze individual pieces for easy serving.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake slightly warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid reheating the whole cake as it can dry out; instead, let it come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your baking journey!

Can I make the White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare both the cheesecake center and the cake layers in advance. Just store them separately until you’re ready to assemble and frost.

How do I store leftover White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing!

Can I substitute ingredients in the White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter if you want a vegan version. Make sure to choose suitable alternatives that fit your dietary needs.

What is the best way to serve White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center?

For optimal enjoyment, chill the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps set everything nicely and makes serving a breeze!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this delightful White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center as I am! It combines rich flavors and textures that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Enjoy every moment of creating this beautiful dessert, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy baking!