Indulge in the delightfully rich and moist Incredibly Delicious Italian Cream Cake. This classic recipe features layers of tender cake infused with pecans and coconut, filled with a creamy frosting, and topped with more pecans and coconut. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat anytime, this dessert will impress and satisfy anyone with its irresistible flavors. Get ready to experience the taste of Italy in each scrumptious bite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional shredded coconut and pecan halves for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and repeat the frosting process. Finally, place the third cake layer on top.
- Frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Garnish with additional shredded coconut and pecan halves.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Italian Cream Cake is not originally from Italy, but its name likely refers to the incorporation of rich ingredients such as coconut and pecans, commonly used in Italian desserts.
The cake's moistness comes from the addition of buttermilk and the use of separated eggs, which are beaten separately to create a fluffy texture.
Italian Cream Cake is a popular dessert choice for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions in the United States.
The cake is traditionally served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
This recipe can be customized with additional flavors such as adding a splash of rum or almond extract to the frosting for a unique twist.