Name: Irresistible Italian Cream Cake for Your Next Celebration
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Essential leavening agent.); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Essential leavening agent.); 1 cup Salted Butter (Can use unsalted with added salt.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Essential for moisture.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Can replace with more granulated sugar.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (For aromatic depth.); 1 tsp Almond Extract (Use only vanilla if almond is not available.); 5 large Eggs (Bind ingredients together.); 1 cup Whole Buttermilk (Can substitute with milk and vinegar.); 1 cup Sweetened Flaked Coconut (Adjust sugar for unsweetened coconut.); 1 cup Pecan Pieces (toasted) (Can be replaced with walnuts or almonds.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Main ingredient for frosting.); 0.5 cup Salted Butter (Softened for mixing.); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Essential for frosting texture.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (For flavor.); 1 tsp Almond Extract (For flavor.)

As I savored the first bite of my homemade Italian Cream Cake, I felt like I was being whisked away to a lively Southern celebration—where fluff and flavor harmonize in a lush mélange of toasted coconut and pecans. This Southern-Style Italian Cream Cake is not just a dessert; it’s the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or hosting a family gathering. Its moist texture and creamy cream cheese frosting offer two irresistible perks: it’s a showstopper that's surprisingly easy to whip up! The joy of creating this cake will fill your kitchen with sweet aromas, making it a delightful adventure for passionate home chefs. Ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your loved ones with every slice? Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the magic of this beloved classic!

Why is Italian Cream Cake a Must-Try?

Indulgent Flavors: Each bite of this cake is a celebration of toasted coconut and crunchy pecans, creating a flavor explosion that lingers long after the last slice.

Effortlessly Impressive: Your guests will be wowed by its stunning appearance and rich taste, yet achieving this masterpiece is surprisingly simple—perfect for novice and experienced bakers alike!

Versatile Delight: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or a cozy family dinner, this dessert fits any occasion, pairing beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.

Moist & Creamy Perfection: With its tender crumb and luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is moist and flavorful, ensuring delightful satisfaction in every bite.

Crowd-Pleaser: You’ll find it hard to resist sharing this classic treat; it’s a guaranteed hit that brings smiles and happiness to every gathering.

Italian Cream Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; for gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential leavening agents for a light and airy cake; both are needed for optimal texture.
• Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; unsalted butter can be used with 1/4 tsp added salt.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps with moisture; essential for the cake's structure.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture; can replace with more granulated sugar, but flavor may change.
• Vanilla Extract & Almond Extract – Provide aromatic depth; use only vanilla extract if almond is not available.
• Large Eggs – Bind the ingredients and provide structure; essential ingredient.
• Whole Buttermilk – Contributes to moisture and tanginess; can substitute with milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.
• Sweetened Flaked Coconut – Adds flavor and texture; unsweetened coconut can be used, adjusting sugar accordingly.
• Pecan Pieces (toasted) – Adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture; can replace with walnuts or almonds.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Main ingredient providing tanginess and creaminess in the frosting; mascarpone or neufchatel cheese may work with sugar adjustments.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; essential for the frosting's smooth texture.

Embrace the joy of baking with this Italian Cream Cake, perfect for any celebration!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Cream Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to prevent the Italian Cream Cake from sticking. You may also line the bottoms with parchment paper for easier removal. This foundation will ensure your cake layers release beautifully after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This mixture serves as the backbone of your Italian Cream Cake, providing the necessary structure. Set it aside while you prepare the wet ingredients to allow the leavening agents to activate fully during mixing.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened salted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of light brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial to incorporate air and create a tender crumb in the cake.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Add 5 large eggs, one at a time, to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix on medium speed for about 1 minute per egg, which helps achieve a smooth and velvety batter. The eggs add moisture and assist in binding the ingredients, yielding a rich Italian Cream Cake.

Step 5: Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with 1 cup of whole buttermilk. Start and end with the flour, mixing on low speed until just combined. This alternating method prevents overmixing, ensuring a light texture. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to fully integrate all ingredients.

Step 6: Fold in Coconut and Pecans
Gently fold in 1 cup of sweetened flaked coconut and 1 cup of toasted pecan pieces using a spatula. Be cautious not to over-mix; you want the chunks to remain intact for added texture. This step is where your Italian Cream Cake gains its signature flavor profile, combining nuttiness with a tropical flair.

Step 7: Divide and Bake
Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cakes during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.

Step 8: Cool the Layers
Once done, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Afterward, gently remove the cakes from the pans and allow them to cool completely on the rack. Cooling thoroughly is essential to ensure the layers are firm enough for frosting without melting the cream cheese icing.

Step 9: Make the Frosting
For the frosting, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese and ½ cup of softened salted butter in a large bowl until fluffy. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon each of vanilla and almond extracts, mixing on low speed. Continue until the frosting is smooth and spreadable, perfect for your Italian Cream Cake.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake
To assemble, place one cooled cake layer on a serving platter and spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the second and third layers, covering the entire cake with frosting. Finally, gently press additional toasted coconut onto the sides and sprinkle pecans on top for a beautiful finish that showcases the delicious characteristics of this classic dessert.

Italian Cream Cake Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations that will make your Italian Cream Cake even more special and tailored to your taste!

Nut Variety: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Toasted almonds bring a lovely crunch, while walnuts add earthiness.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a cake everyone can enjoy. Ensure it’s a 1:1 blend for best results!
Chocolate Twist: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-inspired Italian Cream Cake. A delightful twist, this will charm the chocolate lovers in your life.
Fruit Flavors: Incorporate fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, between layers for a refreshing fruit twist. Their tartness beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the frosting.
Coconut Cream Variation: Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese for a tropical, dairy-free frosting. Light yet flavorful, this option is sure to delight!
Different Extracts: Experiment with extracts like hazelnut or coconut in the frosting for a unique flavor profile. Each option lends its distinct aroma and taste.
Dessert Layers: Consider using this batter in a layered dessert trifle with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a fun presentation. Layering adds elegance and a variety of textures.
Spiced Up: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that elevates the cake. Just a hint can create a comforting atmosphere at your gatherings.

These variations and substitutions can transform your Italian Cream Cake into something uniquely yours, perfect for any occasion. And if you're looking for more sweet inspiration, check out my delightful recipe for Chocolate Pudding Cake or see how to make Peaches Cream Cookies for a tasty twist on dessert!

Make Ahead Options

This Southern-Style Italian Cream Cake is perfect for busy home cooks who want to save precious time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, cooling completely, and then wrapping each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. Alternatively, the frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead; just keep it refrigerated and give it a quick mix before frosting the cake. When you're ready to serve, layer the chilled cakes with frosting and add the coconut and pecans for that delightful finish. This way, you'll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal effort, ensuring your celebration is smooth and stress-free!

Expert Tips for Italian Cream Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a fluffier cake texture.
Properly Toast Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F for 6-8 minutes until fragrant.
Layer Frosting Wisely: When assembling your cake, apply frosting between layers first, then coat the sides. This helps prevent any sliding!
Keep Cake Refrigerated: Due to the cream cheese frosting, store the Italian Cream Cake in the fridge. It remains fresh for up to 5 days.
Frosting Consistency Matters: Adjust the powdered sugar gradually to achieve your desired frosting thickness. Be careful not to over-mix!

What to Serve with Southern-Style Italian Cream Cake

Enhancing your celebration with the perfect pairings transforms delicious dessert into a memorable meal that tantalizes the senses.

Fresh Berries:
Plump raspberries or strawberries provide bright, juicy contrast to the richness of the cake, lightening each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that beautifully complements the moist cake and tangy frosting.
Coffee or Espresso:
The bold flavors of coffee enhance the cake’s sweetness while offering a warm, comforting balance—perfect for a post-dinner treat.
Whipped Cream:
Light and airy whipped cream creates a delightful textural contrast, enhancing the cake’s richness without overwhelming the palate.
Sparkling Lemonade:
A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade cuts through the sweetness, offering zesty notes that brighten every bite of cake.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle:
A rich chocolate ganache adds an indulgent twist, beautifully contrasting the flavors of pecan and coconut in this beloved dessert.
Nutty Biscotti:
These crunchy treats provide a delightful crunch and can be enjoyed alongside coffee, marrying perfectly with the cake's nutty elements.

How to Store and Freeze Italian Cream Cake

Fridge: Keep the Italian Cream Cake refrigerated to maintain the freshness of the cream cheese frosting; it can last up to 5 days. Use a cake cover or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer a warmed slice, gently microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds. Be sure to enjoy it right after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Tip: Before serving a previously frozen cake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to bring back its delicious moistness and flavors.

Italian Cream Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of coconut should I use for the cake?
I recommend using sweetened flaked coconut, as it adds the perfect flavor and moisture to the cake. If you prefer a less sugary option or are watching your sugar intake, unsweetened coconut can work as well, but you may want to adjust the amount of granulated sugar in the cake.

How should I store leftover Italian Cream Cake?
To keep your Italian Cream Cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting. It will stay delicious for up to 5 days when covered with a cake lid or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Italian Cream Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, first ensure it is completely cool. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What should I do if my cake layers rise unevenly?
If your cake layers don’t rise evenly, it could be due to overmixing the batter or an uneven oven temperature. Ensure you mix the batter just until combined to prevent excess gluten formation. Always check your oven's accuracy with an oven thermometer, as some ovens can have hot spots or incorrect settings that might cause uneven baking.

Is Italian Cream Cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
It’s important to note that traditional Italian Cream Cake includes pecans for flavor and texture, which are not safe for nut allergy sufferers. As an alternative, you could experiment with nut-free versions by omitting nuts entirely and perhaps adding a few more flaked coconuts for texture. Always inform your guests of the ingredients if allergies are a concern.