Few desserts can rival the elegance and flavor of an Italian Cream Cake. Despite its name, this delightful confection isn’t specifically Italian but rather a Southern classic in the U.S., loved for its rich texture, decadent frosting, and subtle coconut and pecan undertones. This cake is the epitome of indulgence, combining moist layers with a luscious cream cheese frosting to create a treat worthy of special occasions or simple moments of joy.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to create this irresistible cake in your kitchen.
What Makes Italian Cream Cake Special?
- Rich Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of sweet coconut, nutty pecans, and buttery vanilla cake.
- Velvety Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk, the cake is moist and tender in every bite.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy, smooth frosting adds the ideal contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
- Southern Charm: A traditional favorite for holidays, birthdays, or just because!
Ingredients for Italian Cream Cake
For the Cake Layers
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
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