White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

If you’re looking for a cake that’s sure to impress, then let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorites: the White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center. This delightful dessert features layers of moist white chocolate cake and a rich, creamy cheesecake tucked right in the middle. It’s not just an indulgence; it’s a labor of love that brings happiness to any gathering—be it birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy family dinner.

What makes this cake even more special is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for a special occasion or simply to sweeten your weeknight. Trust me, once you slice into this beauty and see that luscious cheesecake layer, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to follow: Even if you’re not an experienced baker, these simple steps make it accessible for everyone.
• Family-friendly: This cake is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: The cheesecake layer can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of serving.
• Deliciously unique flavor: The combination of white chocolate and cheesecake creates a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients should feel like an exciting part of the process! For this White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that are likely already in your pantry.

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! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add fruit: Incorporate fresh berries between the layers for added freshness and flavor.
• Switch the nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans if that’s what you prefer.
• Try a different frosting: Swap out the coconut pecan frosting for a classic buttercream or ganache if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make mini cakes: Bake in smaller pans for individual servings—a fun twist for parties!

How to Make White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

First things first—let’s get that delicious cheesecake layer ready! Preheat 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 together the softened cream cheese until it’s super smooth. Add in the sugar and mix until well combined. One by one, incorporate each egg, followed by vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour. Pour this creamy goodness into your prepared pan and bake for about 40–45 minutes until it’s just set in the center. Once baked, cool completely before chilling in the refrigerator for at least two hours—or overnight if time allows.

Step 2: Make the White German Chocolate Cake

Now let’s create those beautiful cake layers! Preheat your oven again—this time to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans while you whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. In a larger bowl, cream together room-temperature butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this step is crucial as it adds airiness to your cake! Beat in eggs one at a time before adding in vanilla extract. Gently stir in your melted white chocolate; this will give your batter an amazing depth of flavor. Alternate adding your dry ingredients and buttermilk starting and ending with dry ingredients. Divide this luscious batter evenly between your pans and bake for about 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. After letting them cool in their pans for ten minutes, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Pecan Frosting

Time for frosting magic! In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, evaporated milk, sugar, and egg yolks. Stir constantly as it cooks—this helps thicken it up beautifully over about 10–12 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract along with coconut, chopped pecans, and melted white chocolate. Allow this heavenly frosting to cool completely before we assemble our masterpiece!

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Start by placing one layer of cake on your serving plate. Carefully add that chilled cheesecake layer right on top—it’s okay if it wobbles a bit; it’s going to be delicious regardless! Next up is adding your second cake layer right on top of everything else. Now take that cooled coconut pecan frosting and spread it evenly over both tops and sides of the cake—it should look utterly divine! To ensure perfect slices later on, chill everything for at least half an hour before serving.

Enjoy every bite of this White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center! It’s truly something special that will leave everyone smiling—and coming back for more!

Pro Tips for Making White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Baking this delicious cake is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your cream cheese, butter, and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and cheesecake layer.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light texture we’re aiming for.

• Check for Doneness: Rather than relying solely on baking time, use a toothpick to test for doneness. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. This ensures your cake remains moist.

• Cool Layers Completely: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures that each slice looks beautiful when served.

• Chill Before Serving: Chilling the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes not only helps set the frosting but also makes slicing easier and cleaner!

How to Serve White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Presenting this stunning cake can enhance its appeal even further! Here are some fun ideas to consider.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries on top add a pop of color and a fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich cake.

• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint placed strategically around the cake can bring a refreshing touch that brightens up the presentation.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the cake, making every bite a blissful experience.

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the indulgent cake, balancing out the meal nicely.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For an extra tropical flair, serve some whipped coconut cream alongside or on top of each slice. It’s light and complements the coconut in your frosting beautifully.

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting beverage choice that enhances the overall dessert experience, making it feel cozy and inviting.

Embrace these serving suggestions to elevate your White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center into an unforgettable treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is perfect for meal prep and special occasions! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your event.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
• If you have individual slices, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, let frozen slices thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• If you prefer warm cake, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid overheating to keep the cheesecake center creamy and delicious!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert.

Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate for the cake?

While this recipe specifically calls for white German chocolate, you can certainly experiment with regular chocolate! Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile from a classic white chocolate taste.

How do I make a White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center more festive?

Decorate your cake with fresh fruit, edible flowers, or even a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut and chopped pecans on top. A drizzle of melted white chocolate can also add an elegant touch!

How long does it take to prepare the White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center?

Preparation can take around 1-1.5 hours including baking and cooling time. However, chilling the cheesecake layer overnight improves its texture and flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Additionally, using dairy-free alternatives can work if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.

Final Thoughts

This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is truly a showstopper that brings joy to any gathering. With its rich flavors and creamy layers, it’s bound to impress your family and friends! I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to share your creations or ask any questions along the way—happy baking!