White German Chocolate Cake: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert
Looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further than this White German Chocolate Cake. Combining a light and fluffy white cake with a rich, decadent coconut-pecan frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday celebration, a holiday dinner, or simply a treat to enjoy on a cozy evening.
A Sweet Tradition with a Twist
German chocolate cake is often associated with its dark chocolate base and signature coconut-pecan frosting. However, this White German Chocolate Cake offers a unique twist by using a white cake mix as the base, making it even lighter and airier. The contrast between the soft, pillowy cake and the rich, creamy frosting creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors. If you’ve ever made a classic German chocolate cake, this variation will definitely win you over!
In addition to its mouthwatering taste, this cake is a breeze to make with easily accessible ingredients. You don’t need to be an expert baker to pull this off—just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to serve in under an hour!
Ingredients for the Perfect White German Chocolate Cake
To make this indulgent dessert, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 package white cake mix – This saves time while still giving you a fluffy, moist cake.
- 1 cup buttermilk – The buttermilk helps make the cake soft and tender while adding a subtle tang.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil – This ensures the cake remains moist.
- 4 large egg whites – Using egg whites instead of whole eggs results in a lighter, airier cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that warm, comforting vanilla flavor.
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – This gives the frosting richness and a smooth texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the frosting, helping to balance the flavors.
- 1 cup evaporated milk – Adds creaminess to the frosting without being overly heavy.
- 3 large egg yolks – Adds richness to the frosting, making it thicker and more luxurious.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut – The star ingredient of the frosting, adding sweetness and texture.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – The nuts provide a delightful crunch that complements the coconut and frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Create the Ultimate White German Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preparing the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent the cake from sticking. This ensures that your cake layers come out clean and easy to frost.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg whites, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans, making sure they’re level so the cakes bake evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking at the 25-minute mark.
Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to avoid the cakes breaking apart while you’re handling them.
Step 2: Making the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the decadent coconut-pecan frosting.
Start by melting 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of evaporated milk, 3 egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir the mixture constantly to ensure the ingredients are well combined and the sugar dissolves.
Let the mixture cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, it will thicken and turn a golden-brown color. Be patient during this step, as the caramelization of the sugar gives the frosting its signature flavor. Once it reaches the desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, then allow the frosting to cool slightly before using. This cooling step is essential because it prevents the frosting from melting into the cake when applied.
Step 3: Assembling the Cake
Once both the cake and frosting have cooled, it’s time to assemble the cake.
Place one layer of the cooled cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to adhere it.
Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it with a spatula. Be sure to coat every surface with the coconut-pecan frosting, as it’s the highlight of the cake. For an extra touch, garnish with a few more chopped pecans or extra coconut flakes.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
Once your White German Chocolate Cake is frosted and assembled, slice it up and serve! This cake is best served at room temperature so the frosting holds its shape and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Moist and Fluffy Cake: The combination of buttermilk and egg whites ensures a cake that’s light yet tender with every bite.
- Decadent Frosting: The rich coconut-pecan frosting is the perfect complement to the fluffy white cake, creating a heavenly contrast of textures.
- Easy to Make: While this cake looks impressive, it’s surprisingly simple to make with just a few easy steps. The most time-consuming part is waiting for the cake to cool!
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family dinner, or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this White German Chocolate Cake is the answer. With its soft, moist cake layers and creamy coconut-pecan frosting, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. The perfect combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds. Make this cake for your next event or indulge in it as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per Slice: 520 kcal
Servings: 12 slices
For more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other dessert ideas! You won’t want to miss these mouthwatering treats.