A rich and indulgent dessert that combines moist layers of German chocolate cake with a creamy cheesecake center, all topped with a silky frosting and toasted nuts. This cake is a showstopper perfect for holidays, birthdays, or when you want something truly decadent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A unique twist on classic German chocolate cake

• Creamy cheesecake center adds richness and surprise

• Silky homemade chocolate frosting

• Perfect for celebrations and special occasions

• Gorgeous presentation with simple steps

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1½ cups (6 oz) German chocolate, chopped

• ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter

• 1½ cups granulated sugar

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• 4 large eggs, separated

• 1½ tsp vanilla extract

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• ¾ tsp baking soda

• ¾ tsp salt

• 1½ cups buttermilk

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 12 oz cream cheese, softened

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 1 cup (4 oz) German chocolate, chopped

• ½ cup unsalted butter

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted if desired)

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Bake Time: 55–60 minutes total
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: About 2½ hours
Yields: 12–14 servings

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Preheat a separate oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla; beat until creamy. Pour into a parchment-lined 9-inch round pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until set. Cool completely, then refrigerate until firm.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the German chocolate and butter together. Set aside to cool. In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and egg yolks until fluffy. Stir in the cooled chocolate mixture and vanilla. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture in three parts, alternating with buttermilk. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites to stiff peaks and gently fold into the batter.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the cake batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the German chocolate and butter for the frosting. Let cool slightly. In a separate bowl, beat powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract. Add the melted chocolate mixture and beat until smooth and spreadable.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Place the first cake layer on a serving platter and spread with a layer of frosting. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top. Add the second cake layer and more frosting. Finish with the third cake layer, then frost the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts over the top as a finishing touch.

Tips & Variations

• Use parchment rounds to prevent sticking when removing layers

• Chill the cheesecake at least 1 hour before assembly

• For clean cuts, chill the assembled cake before slicing

• Swap walnuts for pecans or omit nuts if preferred

• Add shredded coconut to the frosting for a classic German chocolate flavor twist

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the cheesecake layer ahead of time?
Yes, the cheesecake can be made a day in advance and kept chilled until you’re ready to assemble.

Can I use boxed cake mix instead?
You can use a German chocolate cake mix for convenience, but the from-scratch version adds superior flavor and structure.

Can I freeze the assembled cake?
It’s best to freeze individual slices. Wrap well and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Do I have to toast the nuts?
Toasting brings out their flavor but is optional. You can also skip the nuts entirely.

Final Thoughts

White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center is a stunning dessert that tastes as incredible as it looks. With layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy cheesecake, and smooth frosting, it’s a slice of pure indulgence. Perfect for celebrations or when you want to impress, this cake is sure to become a favorite centerpiece recipe.