White German Chocolate Cake

Name: White German Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This delightful White German Chocolate Cake combines layers of moist cake with a creamy frosting that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:51:02.854Z

This White German Chocolate Cake is a twist on the classic German chocolate cake, featuring a lighter, creamier flavor profile. Ideal for special occasions, it’s sure to impress your guests!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coconut and pecans
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Origin of German Chocolate Cake

Despite its name, German Chocolate Cake has roots not in Germany but in the United States. The cake is named after Samuel German, an American chocolate maker who developed a dark-baking chocolate for Baker's Chocolate Company in 1852. The cake gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in Texas, where a recipe featuring German’s chocolate was published in a local newspaper. This delicious treat has since evolved, and today, we celebrate it in various forms, including this delightful white version.

The unique aspect of German Chocolate Cake is its layered structure, often filled and topped with a rich coconut and pecan frosting. This recipe takes the traditional flavors and presents them in a lighter, white cake form, making it suitable for various occasions. The combination of chocolate with coconut and nuts creates a delightful contrast, ensuring every bite is a treat for your taste buds.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply want to indulge yourself, this White German Chocolate Cake is a versatile dessert that fits any occasion. Its elegant appearance and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. You can easily dress it up with additional decorations or serve it as is for a more rustic look.

This cake is not just about taste; it also offers a visual appeal that will impress your guests. The creamy frosting, dotted with coconut and pecans, provides a beautiful contrast against the white cake layers. It's perfect for special events, yet simple enough to whip up for a family gathering or a cozy Sunday afternoon treat.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your White German Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs. This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air effectively, leading to a lighter cake. Additionally, do not overmix your batter; mix until just combined to avoid a dense texture.

When baking, keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time. Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s best to check for doneness a few minutes early. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start baking.

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cake.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in coconut, pecans, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, layer them with frosting between and on top. Decorate as desired.

Allow the cake to chill slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.

Storage Instructions

To keep your White German Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. However, note that the texture may change slightly when chilled.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.

Serving Suggestions

This White German Chocolate Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess complements the rich chocolate and coconut flavors, making each bite even more indulgent. You might also consider serving it alongside fresh berries for a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness.

For a fun twist, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the top for an extra layer of flavor. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delicious chocolatey richness that chocolate lovers will adore. Don't forget to sprinkle some extra coconut and pecans on top for added texture and presentation.

Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up, consider adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cake layers. Raspberry or apricot preserves would add a lovely tartness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy frosting. This is a great way to incorporate seasonal fruits and add a personal touch to your cake.

Another variation could be to experiment with different nuts. While pecans are traditional, walnuts or even hazelnuts can bring a unique flavor profile that complements the cake beautifully. Just remember to toast any nuts you use to enhance their flavor and crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for pecans?

You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.