German Chocolate

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White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center

Introduction:

White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center is an elegant and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of a classic German chocolate cake with the creamy, smooth texture of cheesecake. This showstopping dessert is perfect for special occasions, holidays, and gatherings where you want to impress guests with a unique and luxurious treat.

Unlike traditional German chocolate cake, which features a dark chocolate base, this variation uses a white cake for a delicate contrast to the coconut-pecan frosting and the rich cheesecake filling. The result is a fusion of textures and flavors that elevate this cake to a masterpiece.

History:

The origins of German chocolate cake can be traced back to 1852 when American baker Samuel German developed a type of dark baking chocolate for the Baker’s Chocolate Company. The cake gained widespread popularity in the 1950s when a recipe using “German’s Chocolate” was published in a Texas newspaper. Over time, creative bakers have experimented with different variations, including this white cake version that adds a creamy cheesecake layer for an extra indulgence.

Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Center:

  • 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs

For the White Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk

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
  • 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Center

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch round springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
  4. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the White Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the egg whites, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
  7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
  2. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans.
  4. Let the frosting cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one white cake layer on a serving plate.
  2. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top of the first cake layer.
  3. Place the second white cake layer on top of the cheesecake.
  4. Spread the coconut-pecan frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
  5. Let the cake set for at least an hour before slicing and serving.

Conclusion:

This White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center is a luxurious, multi-layered dessert that is sure to impress any crowd. The combination of light white cake, creamy cheesecake, and nutty coconut-pecan frosting creates a balance of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just because, this cake will quickly become a favorite among dessert lovers.

For the Dessert Lovers:

  • If you love extra sweetness, try adding a drizzle of white chocolate ganache over the top.
  • Toasting the pecans before adding them to the frosting enhances their nutty flavor.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Enjoy baking and indulging in this unforgettable dessert!

I’ve created a detailed recipe document for your White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center, including history, methods, and tips for dessert lovers. Let me know if you’d like any modifications or additional details!

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