Name: White German Chocolate Cake: A Decadent Delight
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup white chocolate, chopped or white chocolate chips; 1/4 cup milk (to melt the white chocolate); 1 cup evaporated milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut; 1 cup pecans, chopped

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White German Chocolate Cake offers a delightful twist on the classic German chocolate cake, known for its rich flavor and luxurious texture. This version swaps the traditional dark chocolate base for a lighter, fluffier white chocolate cake, creating a delectable contrast with the signature coconut-pecan frosting. The result is a stunning dessert that’s not only visually beautiful but also a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors.

German chocolate cake’s rich history dates back to the use of “Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate” in the original recipe. While the original version features a dark chocolate base, this white variation adds a fresh, lighter flavor that pairs beautifully with the gooey, indulgent coconut-pecan frosting. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, holiday, or simply a special treat, White German Chocolate Cake is sure to impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The pairing of white chocolate cake with the traditional coconut-pecan frosting creates a unique flavor combination that’s both sweet and satisfying.

2. Light and Fluffy Texture

The white chocolate cake is light and fluffy, offering a tender crumb that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, crunchy frosting.

3. Perfect for Special Occasions

This cake is a showstopper, making it ideal for celebrations such as birthdays, weddings, or holiday gatherings.

4. Simple Yet Elegant

While this cake is rich and flavorful, it’s also surprisingly easy to make. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward techniques makes it approachable for bakers of all skill levels.

5. Customizable

You can customize the frosting by adjusting the sweetness or adding extra ingredients like toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
White chocolate (melted)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Buttermilk
Vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

Sweetened condensed milk
Unsalted butter
Egg yolks
Vanilla extract
Coconut flakes (sweetened)
Pecans (chopped)

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: For added decadence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of the cake or between the layers.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans if you want a nut-free version or substitute them with another type of nut like almonds.
Coconut Frosting: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, consider making a coconut whipped cream frosting as a lighter alternative to the traditional coconut-pecan frosting.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the White Chocolate Mixture

Melt the white chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Add the White Chocolate

Fold the melted white chocolate into the batter, mixing gently to combine.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and egg yolks over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from the heat and stir in vanilla extract, coconut flakes, and chopped pecans.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the coconut-pecan frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with additional chopped pecans and coconut flakes if desired.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve! Enjoy the fluffy texture of the white chocolate cake paired with the creamy, nutty coconut-pecan frosting.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure your cake is fully cooled before frosting it to prevent the frosting from melting.
Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Check the doneness of the cake with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cakes.
Let the frosting cool slightly before applying it to the cake to avoid it running off.
Use fresh coconut for a more authentic and fragrant flavor in the frosting.

How to Serve

White German Chocolate Cake is best served at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For an extra touch, serve it alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to balance out the sweetness of the cake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, you may want to store it in the refrigerator.

Freezing

You can freeze White German Chocolate Cake by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave the slices at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy a warm slice of cake, you can reheat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar for a buttermilk substitute.

2. Can I use white chocolate chips instead of a bar of white chocolate?

Yes, white chocolate chips can be used, but melting them may require a bit more care to avoid burning.

3. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to grease and flour the cake pans, or use parchment paper to line the bottoms of the pans for easy removal.

4. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before frosting the cake.

5. Can I use store-bought frosting?

While homemade coconut-pecan frosting gives the best flavor, you can use store-bought frosting if you’re short on time.

6. How can I make the cake even more decadent?

Consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top of the cake for extra indulgence.

7. How do I prevent the frosting from running off the cake?

Make sure the cake is completely cooled before applying the frosting, and allow the frosting to set slightly before spreading it on the cake.

8. Can I add a layer of frosting between the cake layers?

Yes, you can add frosting between the cake layers for extra flavor and texture.

9. Can I substitute pecans with another nut?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer, though pecans are traditional.

10. Can I decorate the cake with something other than coconut and pecans?

Feel free to get creative with your decoration! You could use white chocolate curls, edible flowers, or even fresh berries.

Conclusion

White German Chocolate Cake is a delightful and elegant twist on the traditional German chocolate cake. With its light and fluffy white chocolate cake base paired with the rich, coconut-pecan frosting, this cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a decadent dessert, this cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give it a try and indulge in a slice of sweet, nutty bliss!