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This decadent cake combines two desserts in one – a smooth, creamy cheesecake center layered between soft white cake, all crowned with a rich coconut-pecan frosting. It’s a showstopper for holidays, birthdays, or any time you want to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Center:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the White Cake:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
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Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, and beat until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
- Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes or until set. Cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Prepare the White Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg whites one at a time, then vanilla.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with flour.
- Divide the batter between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, brown sugar, and butter. Stir until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans. Let cool.
Assemble the Cake:
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- Place one white cake layer on a plate.
- Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top.
- Add the second white cake layer.
- Spread the frosting over the top (and sides if desired).
- Chill before serving.
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