White German Chocolate Cake

Name: White German Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 slices
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 8 oz white chocolate, melted; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich flavors of this White German Chocolate Cake, a unique twist on the classic dessert.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:50:06.312Z

This White German Chocolate Cake combines the classic flavors of German chocolate with a delightful white chocolate twist, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Unique Twist on a Classic

White German Chocolate Cake is a delightful variation that brings a fresh perspective to the traditional chocolate cake. Unlike the classic version, this recipe incorporates white chocolate and citrus zest, creating a dessert that is both rich and refreshing. The addition of orange zest brightens the flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. This cake is perfect for those who appreciate a unique take on beloved classics.

The use of white chocolate not only adds a creamy texture but also balances the sweetness, making it an ideal choice for celebrations. Whether you're hosting a birthday party or a holiday gathering, this cake will surely impress your guests. The combination of flavors is sophisticated yet accessible, making it a great option for bakers of all skill levels.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of White German Chocolate Cake is its versatility. It can serve as a stunning centerpiece for formal occasions or a casual treat for a family gathering. The cake's elegant appearance, topped with creamy frosting and sprinkled with coconut and pecans, makes it visually appealing and inviting. Its rich flavors ensure that it will be a hit with both children and adults alike.

Additionally, this cake can be customized for various occasions. You can enhance it with seasonal fruits, adapt the frosting, or even add layers of fruit preserves for an extra touch of flavor. No matter how you choose to serve it, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your White German Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar. Room temperature ingredients mix together more smoothly, so let your butter and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking. This small step can make a significant difference in the texture of your cake.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while gently folding in the ingredients will result in a light, fluffy texture. Keep an eye on the baking time as well; every oven is different, and you want to pull the cakes out as soon as a toothpick comes out clean to prevent them from drying out.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting the preparation.

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
8 oz white chocolate, melted

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for best results.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Fold in the melted white chocolate until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread frosting between the layers and on the top and sides of the cake.

Serve

Slice and serve your delicious White German Chocolate Cake!

Enjoy your cake with a cup of coffee or tea!

Storing Your Cake

Once your White German Chocolate Cake is fully frosted, it's best to store it in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a couple of days. This will keep the cake moist and fresh. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider placing it in the refrigerator, but be aware that the cold may affect the texture of the frosting.

For optimal freshness, you can also freeze the cake. Wrap individual layers in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, allow the layers to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then frost them just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of your White German Chocolate Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert experience. Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, also make a beautiful and tasty garnish that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.

For an added touch, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from melted white chocolate over the top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate flavor, making each bite even more delectable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

While it would change the flavor profile, you can substitute dark chocolate if preferred.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the cakes can be baked a day in advance and stored wrapped in plastic wrap until ready to frost.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.