Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 package of white cake mix
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg whites, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the ingredients on medium speed until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the batter evenly into the two prepared pans.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if the cakes are done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
- Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here!
3. Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously to avoid curdling and cook for 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a lovely golden brown.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Allow the frosting to cool slightly before assembling the cake.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Once your cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter.
- Generously spread the coconut-pecan frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Continue to frost the entire cake, making sure the top and sides are evenly covered.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your White German Chocolate Cake!
Notes
- Substitute alert: Don’t have buttermilk? No worries! Simply mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, and voilà—homemade buttermilk.
- Egg whites: Using egg whites only helps keep the cake light and fluffy. If you prefer a richer cake, you can use whole eggs, but this will slightly alter the texture.
- Cooling is crucial: Make sure the cakes are fully cooled before applying the frosting. A warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
- Storage tip: This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420kcal
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: White German Chocolate Cake recipe, Coconut pecan frosting, German chocolate cake variation