White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center
Introduction
This decadent dessert is a creative twist on two beloved classics — the delicate sweetness of white German chocolate cake and the rich creaminess of cheesecake. The result is a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you want to impress. Imagine slicing into a moist, tender cake only to reveal a creamy cheesecake layer in the middle. The contrasting flavors and textures make every bite an indulgent surprise.
Ingredients (Serves 12–14)
For the Cheesecake Center:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the White German Chocolate Cake:
- 4 oz (115 g) white chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup boiling water
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups cake flour (or all-purpose flour sifted)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
For the Frosting (Traditional Coconut-Pecan Style, White Version):
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted)
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Cheesecake Center
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
- Mix in vanilla and sour cream until creamy.
- Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes or until set. Cool completely, then refrigerate.
Step 2 – Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Pour boiling water over the chopped white chocolate; stir until melted and smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Stir in melted white chocolate.
Step 3 – Assemble and Bake
- Pour half of the cake batter into one cake pan.
- Place the chilled cheesecake layer gently on top.
- Spread the remaining cake batter over the cheesecake layer.
- In the second cake pan, pour the rest of the batter for the top cake layer.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 4 – Make the Frosting
- In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10 minutes).
- Remove from heat; stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Cool to room temperature.
Step 5 – Frost and Serve
- Place the cheesecake-filled cake layer on a serving plate.
- Top with the plain cake layer.
- Spread coconut-pecan frosting over the top and sides.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Methods & Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top for added elegance.
- Mini Versions – Make cupcakes with mini cheesecake centers for parties.
- Nut-Free Option – Replace pecans with toasted coconut flakes only.
- Extra Creamy – Use mascarpone instead of cream cheese for the cheesecake center.
History
Despite its name, German chocolate cake is not from Germany — it was named after Samuel German, who created a type of dark baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. This white chocolate variation is a modern twist, replacing the dark chocolate base with white chocolate for a milder, creamier flavor. Adding a cheesecake center is a 21st-century innovation, marrying two dessert traditions into one irresistible creation.
Benefits
- Two Desserts in One – Cake lovers and cheesecake fans both rejoice.
- Visually Stunning – The layered effect makes it a conversation starter.
- Customizable – Works with other cake flavors like red velvet or lemon.
- Celebration-Worthy – Perfect for weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays.
- Rich Flavor – Sweet white chocolate pairs perfectly with tangy cheesecake.
Formation (Components)
- Cheesecake Center – Smooth, tangy, and rich.
- Moist Cake Layers – Soft white German chocolate cake.
- Frosting – Creamy coconut-pecan blend.
- Final Presentation – A tall, elegant dessert ready for slicing.
Conclusion
This White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center is the ultimate indulgence — a dessert that blends creamy luxury with fluffy sweetness. Each slice tells a story of creativity and love for baking.
For the Dessert Lovers
If your heart beats faster for a dessert that’s rich, elegant, and slightly over the top, this recipe was made for you. Every bite is a love letter to the art of baking.
Methods (Reiterated)
- Keep cheesecake well-chilled before layering.
- Alternate dry and wet ingredients for a tender crumb.
- Cook frosting slowly to avoid curdling.
Conclusion (Reiterated)
This cake isn’t just dessert — it’s a celebration in itself, an edible masterpiece that will be remembered long after the last slice is gone.