White German Chocolate Cake

If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a dessert that is both decadent and visually stunning, a White German Chocolate Cake is the perfect choice. With its rich, velvety layers of moist white cake and sweet coconut-pecan frosting, this cake is a delicious twist on the classic German chocolate cake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

What is White German Chocolate Cake?

While traditional German chocolate cake features a rich dark chocolate cake base, a White German Chocolate Cake substitutes with a lighter, fluffy white cake. The frosting remains the star of this recipe, with its creamy combination of coconut, pecans, and chocolate, offering a satisfying contrast to the subtle flavor of the white cake layers.

Ingredients for White German Chocolate Cake

For the cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the frosting:

• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup German chocolate (melted) or white chocolate chips (for a lighter flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make White German Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Egg Yolks: Add the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
6. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter, ensuring that the mixture remains light and airy.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before turning them out onto a wire rack.

Step 2: Making the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

1. Cook the Frosting Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the butter has melted, and the mixture begins to thicken.
2. Add Coconut and Pecans: Stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and sticky.
3. Cool the Frosting: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the frosting to cool slightly. The frosting will thicken as it cools.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. Layer the Cake: Once the cake layers have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of the coconut-pecan frosting on top.
2. Top with Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently. Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
3. Decorate: For an extra touch, sprinkle additional chopped pecans and shredded coconut on top of the cake for a beautiful and textured finish.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Suggestions: Serve this cake chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat for any occasion. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The frosting tends to firm up in the fridge, which makes for a perfectly sliceable dessert. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Love White German Chocolate Cake

• Light and Moist: The white cake layers are incredibly moist, providing a perfect balance to the rich frosting.
• Decadent Frosting: The coconut-pecan frosting is rich, sweet, and nutty, adding a delightful texture and flavor that takes the cake to the next level.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or special gathering, this cake is sure to be a showstopper.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of the traditional German chocolate cake but prefer a lighter base, the White German Chocolate Cake is a must-try. The combination of fluffy white cake and sweet, creamy frosting makes for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any celebration or casual gathering. So, grab your ingredients and get baking – this cake is sure to become a favorite!

Serving and Storage Tips for White German Chocolate Cake

Serving Tips:

1. Chilled or Room Temperature: This cake can be served either chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a firmer frosting, serve it chilled. If you enjoy a slightly softer texture, let it come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
2. Pair with Beverages: White German Chocolate Cake pairs beautifully with a warm beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The sweetness of the cake complements the rich flavors of these drinks.
3. Decorative Touch: For a stunning presentation, sprinkle extra shredded coconut or chopped pecans on top of the cake just before serving. This adds texture and a visual appeal.
4. Slice Carefully: The frosting can be a bit thick, so use a sharp knife to cut clean slices. For best results, dip the knife in warm water between cuts to ensure smooth, clean slices.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Due to the creamy coconut-pecan frosting, it’s best to store the cake in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge. The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
2. Freezing: If you want to preserve your White German Chocolate Cake for a longer period, freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
3. Frosting Storage: If you have leftover frosting, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can easily reheat it by microwaving for a few seconds or gently warming it on the stove. Stir well before using it again.

By following these simple tips, you’ll ensure that your White German Chocolate Cake stays delicious and fresh, ready to enjoy at any time!

1. Can I use regular chocolate instead of German chocolate in the frosting?

While traditional German chocolate is recommended for its unique flavor, you can substitute it with any type of chocolate you prefer. If you choose to use regular milk or dark chocolate, it may alter the flavor of the frosting slightly, but it will still be delicious. You can also opt for white chocolate if you want to keep the cake’s overall flavor lighter.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers ahead of time! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance. Simply let them cool completely, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store them at room temperature. Assemble the cake with frosting just before serving to ensure it stays fresh and moist.

3. Can I use a different type of nut in the frosting?

While pecans are the traditional nut used in German chocolate cake frosting, you can definitely experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just keep in mind that it will change the texture and flavor slightly, but it will still be a delightful variation.

4. Is there a substitute for sour cream in the cake batter?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk. These options will provide the necessary moisture and tangy flavor to keep the cake light and tender. However, sour cream is ideal for giving the cake its rich texture, so if possible, it’s best to use it.

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