Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: a rich white German chocolate cake with a cheesecake center! This cake is like a hug in dessert form, with layers of moist cake and a creamy cheesecake filling that just melts in your mouth. I remember the first time I baked it for a family gathering; the oohs and aahs from everyone as they took their first bite were simply priceless! It’s such a showstopper, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to impress your friends or family. This cake stands out not just for its flavor but for its beautiful presentation, too. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg (for cheesecake filling)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
How to Prepare the White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a properly preheated oven helps the cake rise beautifully. While that’s warming up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them with a little bit of unsalted butter. Then, sprinkle a bit of flour in each pan, shaking them around until they’re evenly coated. This little trick keeps your cake from sticking like glue!
Making the Cake Batter
Now, let’s get to the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. You’ll want to scrape down the sides of the bowl a couple of times to make sure everything gets mixed well. Next, add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps create that fluffy texture we’re after! Finally, stir in the milk and vanilla extract until everything is just combined.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps get rid of any lumps and ensures a lighter cake. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make your cake dense. We want it light and airy!
Preparing the Cheesecake Center
For the cheesecake filling, in another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar, one egg, and lemon juice. Beat it until it’s smooth and creamy—this should only take a minute or two. Make sure there are no lumps, as you want that silky texture to shine through in every bite!
Assembling the Cake
Time to layer! Pour half of your cake batter into the prepared pans, spreading it evenly. Then, with a spoon or spatula, carefully spread the cheesecake mixture on top of the batter. Finally, pour the remaining cake batter over the cheesecake layer. Don’t worry about it being perfect; it’ll all meld together beautifully as it bakes!
Baking the Cake
Now, pop those pans into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial; it helps the cake set and makes it easier to remove from the pans without breaking. Ooh, the smell is going to be heavenly!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Heads up! The nutritional information for this white German chocolate cake with a cheesecake center can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can give you some typical values, they’re just estimates. For instance, one slice of this delicious cake generally has around 350 calories, but that can change depending on how much sugar or butter you decide to add. So, if you’re tracking your macros or just curious about the details, keep in mind that these numbers are not set in stone. Enjoy every rich bite, and remember that baking is all about finding what works best for you!
Tips for Success
Alright, here are my top tips to make sure your white German chocolate cake with a cheesecake center turns out perfectly every time! First, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature—this helps them blend better and creates that dreamy texture. I also recommend using fresh baking powder and baking soda; they lose potency over time, and we want our cake to rise like a champ! Don’t rush the cooling process; letting the cake cool in the pans for that 10 minutes makes all the difference in keeping it intact. And lastly, if you want an extra layer of wow, sprinkle some toasted coconut and chopped pecans on top before serving. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Variations of the White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch things up with this white German chocolate cake with a cheesecake center! For starters, try swapping out the classic cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate cheesecake—oh wow, it’s like a double chocolate dream! Or, how about a fruity twist? A raspberry or strawberry cheesecake filling would add a delightful pop of color and flavor. You can also experiment with different toppings; imagine a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed Oreos on top for a fun crunch!
Feeling nutty? Consider adding some almond extract to the batter for a lovely twist, or incorporate some toasted almonds into the cheesecake center. You could even change the shredded coconut for crushed pineapple for a tropical vibe. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this cake so special! Just remember to have fun and let your creativity shine through. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked this gorgeous white German chocolate cake with a cheesecake center, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum delight! This cake is absolutely divine on its own, but if you really want to elevate the experience, try pairing it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The lightness of the cream complements the richness of the cake beautifully!
Another fantastic option is to serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The creaminess will create a heavenly contrast with the cake’s texture, and trust me, it’s a match made in dessert heaven! You might also consider drizzling some warm chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
If you’re looking to add a bit of freshness, a side of mixed berries—like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries—will not only brighten up the plate but also provide a juicy burst with each bite. It’s like having a little summer on your dessert table!
And don’t forget about presentation! A sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped pecans on top of each slice can add both flavor and a lovely crunch. Whatever you choose, just know that this cake is sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s all about making those moments sweeter together!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious white German chocolate cake with a cheesecake center fresh for as long as possible! First off, if you have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a rare situation), make sure to store them in an airtight container. This helps keep the moisture in and prevents it from drying out. You can pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay good for about 3-5 days. Just make sure to cover it well, as we don’t want any fridge odors sneaking in!
If you want to save some for later, you can also freeze slices of this cake. Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy a little piece of heaven whenever you’re craving it! It should stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. No need to reheat it; this cake is delightful served straight from the fridge, but if you prefer it warm, you can pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the cheesecake center. Yum!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of cheese for the cheesecake center?
Absolutely! While cream cheese is traditional for that rich, creamy texture, you can experiment with mascarpone for a lighter taste or even ricotta for a slightly grainier texture. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor a bit!
What’s the best way to tell if the cake is done baking?
Great question! The best way to check is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, you’re good to go! If it has wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Definitely! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day ahead, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge. Just remember to cover it well to keep it fresh!
What if my cheesecake center is too runny?
If your cheesecake filling is too runny, it might be because it wasn’t mixed enough or perhaps the cream cheese wasn’t softened properly. Make sure to mix until smooth, and if it’s still a bit too loose, you can add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it up!
Can I substitute the coconut and pecans?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of coconut or pecans, you can leave them out or replace them with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. You could even add chocolate chips for a delightful twist! The cake is super versatile, so feel free to get creative!
White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich white German chocolate cake with a creamy cheesecake center.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- In another bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pans.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the batter.
- Top with remaining cake batter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can be decorated with additional coconut and pecans.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: white german chocolate cake, cheesecake center, dessert recipe
