Luscious, Decadent, and Layered with Love A Showstopper in Every Bite!
OMG your fork won’t know what hit it! This White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center is the ultimate celebration dessert. Imagine: soft and fluffy white cake layered with a rich, creamy cheesecake center, all crowned with a dreamy coconut-pecan frosting that’s sweet, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth good. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because—you’re about to become everyone’s favorite baker.
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Center:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
For the White Cake:
1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup water
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large egg whites
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
½ cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions for White German Chocolate Cheesecake Cake:
1️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Layer:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add sugar and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Beat in eggs one at a time.
Pour into prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, until set.
Cool completely, then chill in the fridge 1–2 hours, until firm.
2️⃣ Bake the White Cake Layers:
Prepare white cake batter according to box instructions with water, oil, and egg whites.
Divide evenly between two 8-inch round pans.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool completely on wire racks.
3️⃣ Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened—about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
Cool to room temperature before frosting.
4️⃣ Assemble the Cake:
Place one white cake layer on a cake plate or stand.
Carefully place the cheesecake layer on top.
Top with the second white cake layer.
Generously spread coconut-pecan frosting over the top and sides.
Slice and prepare for oohs, ahhs, and second helpings.
Quick Snapshot:
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Bake Time: 1 hour
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: ~3 hours
Servings: 12–14
Pro Tips for Cheesecake-Layered Cake Perfection:
Chill is Key: Let your cheesecake layer chill completely for easy stacking and clean slices.
Level Up: Trim cake tops for flat layers if needed—it makes for a prettier final result.
Make Ahead: Bake the cheesecake and cake layers a day before for stress-free assembly.
Frosting Tip: Stir frosting occasionally as it cools to keep it spreadable and smooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The Layers! Three stunning textures in every bite—fluffy, creamy, crunchy.
Impressively Easy: Uses cake mix, but tastes homemade and gourmet.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to wow.
Customizable: Swap the white cake for chocolate or red velvet if you’re feeling bold.
FAQ About White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake:
Can I use store-bought cheesecake?
You could—but homemade gives the best flavor and texture for stacking.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge overnight.
Do I need to use parchment paper?
Highly recommended for easy cheesecake removal and neat layers.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Cheesecake cracked? Don’t worry—it gets hidden between cake layers.
Frosting too runny? Cook a little longer, or chill briefly to thicken.
Cake sliding? Chill before serving so the frosting sets and layers hold.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
Switch the Cake: Use yellow or chocolate cake for a new twist.
Add Chocolate Chips: Fold mini chips into the cheesecake batter.
Bourbon Boost: Add a splash of bourbon to the frosting for a grown-up upgrade.
Fruit Forward: Add raspberry preserves between layers for a sweet-tart contrast.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
From birthdays and baby showers to potlucks and holiday tables, this White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is the ultimate statement dessert. It’s rich, it’s layered, and it’s impossible to forget.
Dessert Goals: Achieved.
Cheesecake, cake, and coconut frosting—what more could a dessert lover want? Every slice is a sweet surprise that melts in your mouth and leaves you wanting another bite.
Made it? Tag your slice of creamy coconut-cheesecake heaven and let the cake love roll in!