If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that is rich, moist, and incredibly flavorful, this Italian Cream Cake is the perfect choice. With layers of tender cake infused with coconut and pecans, paired with a velvety cream cheese frosting, every bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Italian Cream Cake is a beloved Southern favorite, though its name suggests European origins. Its exact history is debated, but one thing is for sure—it has earned its place as a classic dessert, known for its luscious texture and irresistible taste. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress.
With this simple step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to create an Italian Cream Cake that turns out perfect every time.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened flake coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 8 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Layers:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract, coconut, and chopped pecans.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until fully incorporated.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Cake:
Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate or cake stand and pread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of the first layer.
Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting process. Add the third cake layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Tips for Success
- Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all refrigerated ingredients (butter, eggs, cream cheese, buttermilk) are at room temperature before beginning. This helps them blend smoothly into the batter and frosting.
- Folding Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter to maintain their airiness, which contributes to the cake’s fluffy texture.
- Toasting Pecans: For enhanced flavor, toast the pecans before adding them. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
Variations and Additions
- Nut Alternatives: Walnuts can be used in place of pecans for a slightly different taste.
- Coconut Enhancement: To intensify the coconut flavor, add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the batter or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the frosted cake.
- Citrus Twist: A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest in the batter can add a subtle citrus note that complements the cake’s sweetness.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften the frosting and enhance the flavors.
- Serving: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of dessert wine.
By following this recipe, you’ll create an Italian Cream Cake that is truly the definition of moist, fluffy, and absolutely divine. Whether you’re serving it at a special event or simply treating yourself to a homemade delight, this cake will leave a lasting impression on anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy!
Leave a comment