White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress your friends and family, then you’ve come to the right place! This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is not just any cake; it’s a delightful combination of rich, creamy cheesecake nestled between layers of fluffy white chocolate cake. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a holiday gathering, or simply a cozy weekend treat, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy cheesecake center complements the lightness of the white German chocolate cake perfectly. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! You’ll find that it’s a wonderful way to indulge without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent flavors: This cake combines creamy cheesecake and sweet white chocolate for a dessert experience like no other.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love this cake—from kids to grandparents. It’s perfect for gatherings!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the cheesecake layer in advance, making assembly a breeze when it’s time to serve.
• Beautiful presentation: With its stunning layers and frosting, this cake is as lovely to look at as it is delicious to eat.
• Versatile treat: Perfect for celebrations or just because—this cake fits any occasion beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this wonderful White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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 flexible! You can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Add fruit: Layer fresh strawberries or raspberries in between the cheesecake and cake for a fruity twist.
• Change up the nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile in your frosting.
• Go chocolatey: Swap out the white chocolate for semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a richer taste.
• Flavor enhancements: Try adding lemon zest or orange zest to the cheesecake layer for a refreshing citrus note.

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). Greasing a 9-inch springform pan and lining the bottom with parchment paper helps ensure your cheesecake layer comes out beautifully. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth—it should be creamy without any lumps. Then add the sugar and mix until everything is well combined. Adding eggs one at a time keeps your mixture airy. Stir in vanilla, sour cream, and flour before pouring this luscious batter into your prepared pan. Bake it for 40–45 minutes until just set; allow it to cool completely before chilling it in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight—it really enhances those flavors!

Step 2: Make the White German Chocolate Cake

Preheat your oven again, this time to 350°F (175°C), and grease two 9-inch round cake pans—this ensures easy release later on! In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; this step helps distribute leavening evenly throughout your batter. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy—it should look pale and smooth. Add eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract; each addition brings more air into your batter. Next comes melted white chocolate—stirring this in gives richness to your cake. Alternate adding your dry ingredients with buttermilk; starting and ending with flour helps keep everything light. Divide evenly between pans and bake for about 25–30 minutes until done; let them cool before transferring them onto wire racks.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Pecan Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine unsalted butter, evaporated milk, sugar, and lightly beaten egg yolks; stirring constantly is key here! Cook until thickened—about 10–12 minutes—this creates that delicious creamy texture we love in frosting! Once thickened, stir in vanilla extract along with shredded coconut and chopped pecans; mixing these adds flavor bursts throughout each bite! Finally, fold in melted white chocolate after removing from heat—it adds sweetness that pairs beautifully with our cake layers.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Now comes the fun part! Place one layer of cake on your serving plate as a base. Gently place that chilled cheesecake layer on top—this adds such an exciting surprise! Carefully add another layer of cake over it—the height looks fantastic! Spread cooled frosting generously over both top and sides of your creation; take care to cover every inch so each bite is heavenly! Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving—this allows everything to settle nicely together.

Enjoy creating this delightful treat full of love and flavor!

Pro Tips for Making White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Creating a stunning White German Chocolate Cake with a creamy cheesecake center is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your baking experience goes smoothly and the results are absolutely delicious.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring that your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming tough. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, which can lead to uneven texture.

• Chill the cheesecake layer thoroughly – Allowing the cheesecake to chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) ensures it sets properly. This makes it easier to slice and helps it hold its shape when layered with the cake.

• Test for doneness – Oven temperatures can vary, so always perform a toothpick test to check if your cakes are done. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!

• Let the frosting cool completely – This not only makes it easier to spread but also helps it set properly on the cake, giving you that beautiful finish you’re aiming for.

How to Serve White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center

Presentation can elevate your dessert from simply tasty to truly spectacular! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful cake that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries – A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on top adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream on each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the tropical notes of coconut in the frosting.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich layers of cake and cheesecake, creating a delightful temperature contrast.

• Fruit salad – A light fruit salad brings brightness to your plate, balancing out the richness of the cake while providing a refreshing bite.

• Coffee or tea – Serving this cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements its flavors beautifully and provides a comforting experience after dinner.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll create not just a dessert but an entire experience that everyone will love. Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store and freeze your cake for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• If you notice the frosting softening, consider chilling the cake again briefly before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its deliciousness.
• Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, slice individual pieces and microwave them on low heat for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry! Here are some answers to common queries about this delightful dessert.

How do I make White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center from scratch?

Making this cake from scratch is simple! Follow our detailed recipe above, ensuring you prepare both the cheesecake center and white chocolate cake layers before assembling them together with frosting.

Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate in the White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center?

While white chocolate is essential for that signature flavor, you can experiment with other types of chocolate. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall taste of the cake!

How long does the cheesecake layer need to chill?

For optimal results, chill the cheesecake layer for at least 2 hours or overnight. This helps it set perfectly before layering with the cake.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk if needed. Just ensure that any replacements maintain similar textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is not just a dessert; it’s a sweet experience that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture! I hope you find joy in making this special treat for yourself or your loved ones. Remember, baking is all about sharing love and happiness—so enjoy every moment! Happy baking!