White German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake

Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
For the White Chocolate Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
- 6 oz (170g) white chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans
For the White Chocolate Ganache (optional):
- 6 oz (170g) white chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
Instructions:
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Make the White Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, sour cream, and melted white chocolate.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk mixture to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans. Let the filling cool completely.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one layer of the white chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of the coconut-pecan filling over the cake.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on top of the first cake layer.
- Add the second cake layer on top of the cheesecake. Spread the remaining coconut-pecan filling over the top and sides of the cake.
Make the White Chocolate Ganache (optional):
- Place the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the white chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir until smooth.
- Drizzle the ganache over the top of the cake for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips:
- For easier assembly, freeze the cheesecake layer for 30 minutes before placing it between the cake layers.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.
- This cake is perfect for special occasions and will impress anyone who loves the combination of white chocolate, coconut, and cheesecake.
- Enjoy this indulgent and unforgettable dessert!