There’s something utterly divine about the layers of an Italian Cream Cake. Imagine biting into a moist, fluffy slice, where the delicate taste of coconut dances with the creamy richness of cream cheese frosting. savory spinach lasagna Each bite sends you on a flavor adventure that’s more thrilling than a roller coaster ride at your favorite amusement park.
Growing up, this cake was my grandma’s secret weapon at every family gathering. Its lusciousness brought everyone together, making it the star of our dessert table. Whenever I smell that buttery aroma wafting through the air, I’m instantly transported back to those joyful celebrations filled with laughter and love.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Italian Cream Cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. The delightful flavors create a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Its stunning appearance will impress guests at any gathering, making it a showstopper on your dessert table. Versatile enough to customize toppings or fillings based on seasonal fruits or personal preferences. [/info_box]
The first time I made this cake for my friends, their wide-eyed expressions were priceless as they savored every bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious tiramisu cookies.
All-Purpose Flour: Use a good quality flour for the best texture; sifted for lightness is preferred.
Granulated Sugar: A must-have for sweetness; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
Baking Powder: Essential for that fluffy rise; check the expiration date for best results.
Baking Soda: Helps activate the buttermilk for that perfect soft crumb. soft chocolate chip cookies.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!
Unsalted Butter: For rich flavor and moisture; soften it before mixing.
Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together while adding moisture; room temperature works best.
Buttermilk: Gives a lovely tanginess and tender texture; homemade works too!
Coconut Flakes: Sweetened or unsweetened depends on your preference; adds delightful texture. For more inspiration, check out this Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies recipe.
Pecan Nuts: Toasted gives a richer taste; chop them coarsely for added crunch.
Cream Cheese: The star of your frosting; let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar: Sifted for smooth frosting; adjust sweetness to taste.
Vanilla Extract: Pure extract elevates flavors immensely; avoid imitation if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Pans : Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Create Your Dry Mixture : In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This helps ensure an even rise during baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar : In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—around 4 minutes should do the trick! The mixture should be pale in color.
Add Eggs One by One : Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. You want everything to blend smoothly before moving on!
Incorporate Buttermilk : Gradually add in buttermilk along with vanilla extract until fully mixed. rich vanilla cheesecake recipe The batter should have a silky texture—just like your favorite Italian gelato!
Fold in Coconut and Pecans : Gently fold in coconut flakes and chopped pecans with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Be careful not to overmix—let those lumps be.
Bake Until Perfectly Golden : Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool Before Frosting : Remove cakes from oven and let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting—patience pays off here!
Make That Cream Cheese Frosting : While cakes cool, beat cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating until fluffy—this is where magic happens!
Assemble Your Cake : Place one layer on your serving platter. Spread frosting generously over top before adding the second layer—repeat with third layer! Finish by frosting the sides and top beautifully.
Now you’re left with an Italian Cream Cake that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor! For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Cajun Seafood Pot Pie recipe.
Serve it at parties or simply enjoy it as an afternoon treat with coffee—it’s versatile enough to shine at any occasion!
Enjoy every delicious bite!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Italian Cream Cake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Its rich creaminess and nutty undertones create a party in your mouth. The cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it perfect for any gathering. Be prepared for compliments! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping all ingredients. Bake the cake layers first, then whip up the frosting while they cool for smooth assembly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add coconut flakes for an extra twist. Think of it as cake mixology!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For best flavor, enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve a fluffy cake, ensure your eggs are at room temperature. Don’t overmix the batter; gentle folding is key! Let your cake layers cool completely before frosting to avoid melting. [/info_box]
Sometimes, I still remember the first time I made this cake—it was a birthday surprise that turned into a delightful family tradition filled with laughter and joy.
FAQ
What makes Italian Cream Cake unique?
Italian Cream Cake stands out with its rich cream cheese frosting and addition of nuts.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers one day in advance and frost them later.
Is there a gluten-free version of Italian Cream Cake?
Yes! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour for a delicious alternative.
Italian Cream Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Italian Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines moist layers of cake with the rich flavors of coconut and pecans, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This cake is a showstopper at any gathering, bringing warmth and joy reminiscent of family celebrations. Easy to make yet impressive in presentation, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Indulge in each fluffy slice, and experience the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually mix in buttermilk and vanilla extract until combined.
- Fold in coconut flakes and chopped pecans gently.
- Divide batter among prepared pans; bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Assemble the cake by layering with frosting between each layer and on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
