Thank you so much for visiting! If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s guaranteed to impress, this White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. Imagine layers of soft white cake wrapped around a rich, creamy cheesecake center, all finished with the iconic coconut pecan frosting. It’s a beautiful combination of textures and flavors that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, family gatherings, or whenever you want to bake something truly unforgettable.
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Overview of Recipe Content
This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center puts a delicious twist on the classic German chocolate cake. Instead of chocolate cake layers, you’ll use a tender white cake that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake filling and rich coconut pecan frosting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich cheesecake surprise in the center
- Soft, fluffy white cake
- Classic homemade coconut pecan frosting
- Perfect celebration cake
- Great make-ahead dessert
- Beautiful presentation
- Easy using a cake mix shortcut
- Guaranteed crowd favorite
What It Tastes Like
Every slice is creamy, buttery, and perfectly balanced. The cheesecake layer adds richness without being overly heavy, while the sweet coconut pecan frosting provides the signature caramel-like flavor everyone loves.
Health & Nutritional Benefits
While this is certainly an indulgent dessert, making it from scratch lets you enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients without unnecessary preservatives.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Center
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
White Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- Eggs, oil, and water as directed on the package
Coconut Pecan Frosting
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Tools You’ll Need
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Offset spatula
- Cooling rack
Suggested Substitutions and Additions
- Add toasted pecans for deeper flavor.
- Sprinkle toasted coconut on top.
- Add almond extract to the cake batter.
- Garnish with white chocolate curls.
- Decorate with fresh berries for special occasions.
How to Make White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease and line one 9-inch cake pan.
Beat together:
- Cream cheese
- Sugar
Mix until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time.
Stir in the vanilla.
Pour into the prepared pan.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is just set.
Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 2: Bake the White Cake Layers
Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions.
Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch cake pans.
Bake according to the package instructions until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Coconut Pecan Frosting
In a medium saucepan, combine:
- Evaporated milk
- Sugar
- Egg yolks
- Butter
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10–12 minutes.
Remove from the heat.
Stir in:
- Vanilla
- Coconut
- Pecans
Allow the frosting to cool until spreadable.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one white cake layer on a serving plate.
Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top.
Add the second cake layer.
Spread the coconut pecan frosting generously over the top of the cake, allowing some to gently drip over the edges if desired.
Garnish with additional toasted coconut and pecans.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
What to Serve with White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center
This rich dessert pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh coffee
- Espresso
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Raspberry sauce
- Hot chocolate
- Champagne for celebrations
Tips for Making It Perfect
- Chill the cheesecake completely before assembling.
- Toast the pecans for extra flavor.
- Stir the frosting constantly to prevent curdling.
- Assemble the cake only after all layers have cooled.
- Refrigerate before slicing for clean layers.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store covered for up to 5 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
General Information
Despite its name, German chocolate cake actually originated in the United States and was named after Samuel German, who developed a type of baking chocolate. This white cake version offers a lighter twist while preserving the beloved coconut pecan frosting that makes the dessert so iconic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade white cake?
Absolutely! A homemade white cake works beautifully.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Prepare the cheesecake layer a day in advance and assemble the next day.
Do I have to refrigerate it?
Yes, because of the cheesecake layer.
Can I toast the coconut?
Definitely! Toasted coconut adds even more flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze individual slices for easy serving later.
Conclusion
This White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center is the ultimate celebration dessert. With fluffy white cake, a creamy cheesecake surprise, and rich coconut pecan frosting, every slice is pure indulgence. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, holiday, or family gathering, it’s guaranteed to become a recipe everyone asks for.
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
You’ll also enjoy these recipes from Poulef:
- https://poulef.com/church-lady-cream-cheese-pecan-dump-cake/
- https://poulef.com/creamy-baked-custard-cake-crustless-cheesecake-style/
- https://poulef.com/honey-roasted-coconut-cake/
- https://poulef.com/caramel-almond-cake/
- https://poulef.com/chocolate-vanilla-cream-cheese-swirl-loaf-cake/
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Interactive Elements
Have you made this White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center?
⭐ Leave a review and star rating below!
I’d love to hear if you added toasted coconut, white chocolate curls, or fresh berries.
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Nutritional Information
Approximate Per Slice (12 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 610 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 63g |
| Fat | 37g |
| Saturated Fat | 19g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 15g |
| Trans Fat | 0.5g |
| Cholesterol | 145mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 48g |
| Sodium | 340mg |
White German Chocolate Cake with Cheesecake Center
- Total Time: 1 Hour 35 Minutes
- Yield: 12 Servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich White German Chocolate Cake layered with creamy cheesecake and topped with homemade coconut pecan frosting.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 box white cake mix
Ingredients listed on cake mix box
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup sugar
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Bake the cheesecake layer and chill completely.
2. Prepare and bake the white cake layers according to package directions.
3. Cook the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter until thickened.
4. Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans and cool.
5. Layer one white cake, the cheesecake, and the second cake.
6. Spread coconut pecan frosting over the top.
7. Chill before slicing.
Notes
Chill the cheesecake before assembling.
Toast the pecans and coconut for even more flavor.
Store refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 35 Minutes
- Cook Time: 1 Hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Slice
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 48g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Table of Contents
Gianna Poulef
I’m Gianna Poulef from Poulef Recipes. I love sharing perfected dishes from my kitchen. I’m sure they’ll earn a spot in your heart. Let’s savor this journey together!.
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