Layered Chocolate Cheesecake (Printable Version)

A triple-layer dessert with German chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and a classic coconut-pecan finish. Truly impressive.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cake Layer

01 - 4 large egg whites
02 - 1 package white cake mix
03 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
04 - 1 cup buttermilk
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cheesecake Center

06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar

→ Frosting

10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
11 - 3 cups powdered sugar
12 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
13 - 1/4 cup heavy cream

→ Garnish

14 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans
15 - 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Turn the oven to 350°F. Stir together cake mix, buttermilk, oil, egg whites, and vanilla until there are no lumps. Split between two greased 9-inch pans and set aside.
02 - Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely on racks.
03 - Whip cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well. Pour into an 8-inch pan and bake at 325°F for 40-45 minutes. Take out to cool.
04 - Whip butter until fluffy. Slowly add powdered sugar and heavy cream. Toss in vanilla and beat until smooth.
05 - Layer a cake disk, cheesecake, then the second cake disk. Cover everything with frosting, then sprinkle with coconut and pecans.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Refrigerating makes slicing easier
02 - It holds up well when prepped a day or two earlier
03 - The flavors get even better if chilled overnight