Dreamy Italian Cream Cake Recipe: A Slice of Sweet Bliss

Decadent layers of rich cream cheese frosting dance between delicate cake layers in this irresistible Italian cream cake recipe.

Soft, moist textures meld with nutty pecans and creamy goodness that will make every bite a celebration.

Southern baking traditions shine through this classic dessert that brings warmth to any gathering.

The cake’s velvety crumb and silky frosting create a symphony of flavors that tantalize taste buds.

Generations of home bakers have perfected this beloved recipe, passing down its delightful secrets.

Each slice promises a moment of pure indulgence that connects you to cherished culinary memories.

Prepare to savor a dessert that transforms an ordinary day into something extraordinary.

Baking Tools to Make Italian Cream Cake Simple

• Electric mixer: Essential for beating cake batter and creating smooth, creamy frosting.
• Large mixing bowls: Must-have for combining ingredients and preparing batter.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Crucial for baking cake layers with perfect shape.
• Parchment paper or cooking spray: Helps prevent cake from sticking to pans.
• Wire cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly and prevent soggy bottoms.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding in coconut and pecans, and spreading frosting.
• Toothpicks: Helpful for testing cake doneness.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.

Instructions to Whip Up Quick Italian Cream Cake

• Warm Up The Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350°F. Prepare cake pans by greasing them thoroughly and dusting with flour.

• Mix The

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Whip everything together until silky smooth. Gently stir in coconut and pecans for extra crunch.

• Bake To Perfection

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Slide into the hot oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean. Let cakes rest in pans for 10 minutes, then move to cooling rack.

• Whip Up The Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy and dreamy. Slowly add powdered sugar, mixing gently. Splash in vanilla and whip until light and fluffy. Adjust texture with a touch of cream if needed.

• Build Your Masterpiece

Place first cake layer on serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting. Carefully position second layer on top. Cover entire cake with remaining frosting, creating smooth, even layers.

• Finishing Touches

Sprinkle chopped pecans and toasted coconut on top. Slice and serve with a smile, perfect alongside coffee or tea.

Flavor Tips for Moist Italian Cream Cake

• Pro tips for a showstopping Italian Cream Cake that'll wow everyone at the table.
• Ensure eggs, buttermilk, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
• Toast pecans beforehand in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the cake.
• Chill the cake layers completely before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing into the cream cheese frosting and create cleaner, more professional-looking layers.
• Swap regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions. Use almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for added moisture and texture.

Presenting and Serving Your Italian Cream Cake

• Sweet Gathering Hub: Create a delightful dessert party where friends and family can enjoy this rich Italian cream cake as the centerpiece, surrounded by complementary beverages and light snacks.
• Seasonal Celebration Slice: Serve during holiday gatherings like Christmas or Thanksgiving, where the cake's nutty coconut flavors perfectly complement traditional festive atmospheres and complement other seasonal desserts.
• Afternoon Tea Elegance: Pair each slice with a delicate cup of Earl Grey or chai tea, creating a sophisticated dessert experience that transforms an ordinary afternoon into a memorable culinary moment with its luxurious cream cheese frosting and textured layers.
• Coffee Companion Delight: Match the cake with a strong espresso or cappuccino, allowing the rich cream cheese and nutty pecan elements to balance the coffee's robust flavor, making it an ideal after-dinner treat or mid-afternoon indulgence.

Best Storage Tips for Italian Cream Cake Leftovers

• Keep cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Refrigerate for extended freshness up to 5 days.
• Wrap individual cake slices or whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Store cream cheese frosting separately in sealed container for 3-4 days. Keep refrigerated and stir before use to restore smooth consistency.
• Prepare cake layers in advance and store wrapped at room temperature for 24 hours. Frost just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

FAQs

• What makes this Italian Cream Cake different from other cakes?

This version uses a cake mix for convenience while still maintaining traditional flavors, incorporating coconut and pecans for a rich, textured dessert that feels homemade.

• Can I make this cake without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using to create a similar tangy effect.

• Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The recipe uses a cake mix as a base, which simplifies the process and makes it easier for home bakers with less experience to create a delicious dessert.

• How can I ensure my cake layers are moist?

Follow the mixing instructions carefully, use room temperature ingredients, and avoid overbaking. Check the cake’s doneness with a toothpick and remove from the oven as soon as it comes out clean.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 12

Quick Italian Cream Cake Ingredient Guide

• Yellow Cake Mix: Provides structure and quick foundation for this dreamy dessert, choose a high-quality mix for best results.
• Eggs: Binds ingredients and adds richness, select fresh large eggs at room temperature.
• Buttermilk: Creates tender crumb and adds tangy depth, opt for full-fat version for maximum flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures moisture and softness, choose neutral-flavored oil like canola.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor, select pure extract over artificial versions.

• Shredded Coconut: Adds tropical texture and subtle sweetness, use unsweetened for balanced flavor.
• Chopped Pecans: Introduces delightful crunch and nutty undertones, toast lightly for enhanced taste.

• Cream Cheese: Creates smooth, luxurious base, use full-fat Philadelphia-style cream cheese.
• Butter: Provides richness and stability, select unsalted for precise flavor control.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens frosting, sift to prevent lumps.
• Heavy Cream: Adjusts frosting consistency, use sparingly for perfect spreadability.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out frosting's flavor profile, add pure vanilla for best results.

Luscious Italian Cream Cake Recipe

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4.5 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Silky quick Italian cream cake delights dessert enthusiasts with rich layers of creamy elegance. Nutty pecans and smooth cream cheese frosting create an irresistible Southern-Italian American fusion you cannot resist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) white or yellow cake mix
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz) buttermilk
• ⅓ cup (80 ml / 2.7 fl oz) vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (80 g) sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsps (30 ml) heavy cream (optional, for spreading consistency)
• Additional chopped pecans (optional)
• Toasted coconut flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F and generously prepare two 9-inch cake pans with grease, flour, or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Batter Creation: Vigorously whisk cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract for two minutes until achieving a smooth, homogeneous mixture.
3. Texture Enhancement: Gently fold shredded coconut and chopped pecans into the batter, maintaining its delicate consistency and ensuring even distribution.
4. Baking Process: Evenly distribute batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Confirm doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge completely clean.
5. Cooling Stage: Rest cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing for proper texture development.
6. Frosting Preparation: Blend softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, gradually incorporating powdered sugar on low speed to create a velvety base.
7. Frosting Refinement: Whip in vanilla extract on high speed, adjusting consistency with heavy cream if necessary to achieve a light, airy texture.
8. Cake Assembly: Place first cake layer on serving plate, spread generously with frosting, then carefully position second layer on top.
9. Final Presentation: Frost entire cake exterior with precision, optionally garnishing with toasted coconut flakes and chopped pecans for added visual and textural appeal.

Notes

• Measure Ingredients Precisely: Accurate measurements ensure the cake’s texture and taste remain consistent, especially with buttermilk and cake mix.
• Control Mixing Technique: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake, so fold ingredients gently and mix just until combined for a light, tender crumb.
• Monitor Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify accurate heat, preventing uneven baking or dry edges that can compromise the cake’s moisture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese to sit at room temperature for smoother blending and better incorporation, resulting in a more uniform batter and frosting.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg