Italian Cream Cake

Introduction

Italian Cream Cake is a luscious, moist, and tender dessert that combines the richness of butter, the sweetness of coconut, and the subtle nuttiness of pecans. Traditionally layered and frosted with a velvety cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for celebrations, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a decadent treat. This cake is not overly sweet but beautifully balanced, with a light crumb that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped pecans (for topping)
• Optional: extra shredded coconut for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg Yolks & Vanilla: Beat in egg yolks one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Coconut & Pecans: Gently fold in shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
7. Whip Egg Whites: Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold into cake batter.
8. Bake: Divide batter between pans. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pans, then transfer to wire rack.
9. Make Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
10. Assemble Cake: Frost between layers and cover the top and sides. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and optional shredded coconut.

Description

Italian Cream Cake is a visually stunning and flavorful dessert. The combination of moist coconut-pecan cake layers with a rich cream cheese frosting creates a perfect balance of texture and sweetness. The toasted pecans add crunch, while the frosting melts in your mouth with every bite. This cake is as impressive on a dessert table as it is comforting on a casual afternoon.