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White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center

An airy white cake layered with a creamy cheesecake center and topped with a glossy coconut-pecan frosting, perfect for celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 package white cake mix
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut Optional: for toasting before adding to frosting
  • 1 cup chopped pecans Optional: for toasting before adding to frosting
For the Cheesecake Layer (Optional)
  • 8 ounces softened cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans.
  2. Combine the white cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg whites, and vanilla extract in a bowl and mix until smooth.
  3. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
Making the Frosting
  1. Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan, then add the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
  2. Cook on medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, then let cool.
Optional Cheesecake Layer
  1. Blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth; chill briefly.
Assembly
  1. Spread frosting on the first layer of cake. If using, add the cheesecake layer, then place the second cake layer on top.
  2. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Chilling
  1. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to make slicing easier.

Notes

Serve chilled or just cool from the fridge. Slice with a warmed, wiped knife for clean edges. Finish with extra toasted pecans or coconut on top.