German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center
Introduction
German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center is a decadent fusion of rich chocolate cake and creamy cheesecake filling, creating an irresistible dessert. Despite its name, German Chocolate Cake originated in the United States, named after Samuel German, who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. The combination of moist chocolate cake and velvety cheesecake makes this a show-stopping treat perfect for special occasions or a luxurious indulgence.
Ingredients
For the German Chocolate Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water or brewed coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting (Optional but Traditional):
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture into a greased 9-inch springform pan.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then let it cool completely before using it as a cake filling.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Batter
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Stir in hot water or coffee (batter will be thin).
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
1. Pour half of the chocolate cake batter into one of the prepared cake pans.
2. Carefully place the cooled cheesecake layer on top.
3. Pour the remaining chocolate batter over the cheesecake, ensuring it is fully covered.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the cake (not the cheesecake) comes out clean.
5. Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut-Pecan Frosting (Optional)
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
2. Stir continuously for 10–12 minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, coconut, and pecans.
4. Let cool to room temperature before frosting the cake.
Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
1. Place the cake on a serving plate.
2. Spread the coconut-pecan frosting on top, or use chocolate ganache for a richer finish.
3. Garnish with extra coconut flakes, pecans, or chocolate shavings if desired.
History of German Chocolate Cake
Contrary to its name, German Chocolate Cake is not from Germany. The cake gets its name from Samuel German, an American baker who created Baker’s German’s Sweet Chocolate in the 19th century. The original recipe was first published in 1957 by a Texas homemaker in a newspaper, and it quickly gained national popularity.
Benefits of This Cake
• Rich in flavor: The combination of chocolate, cheesecake, and coconut-pecan frosting provides a unique taste experience.
• Perfect for celebrations: A crowd-pleaser for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions.
• Customizable: Can be made with or without the traditional frosting, or with a chocolate ganache twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 6g
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 200mg
Who Loves This Cake?
This cake is adored by:
• Chocolate lovers: Its rich, deep chocolate flavor is a dream for cocoa enthusiasts.
• Cheesecake fans: The creamy center balances the chocolatey layers.
• Dessert enthusiasts: Those who enjoy indulgent and multi-textured sweets.
Conclusion
German Chocolate Cake with a Cheesecake Center is a luxurious dessert that combines the best of both worlds: chocolate cake and cheesecake. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture!