Name: Classic Italian Cream Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 120 ml vegetable oil (1/2 cup); 113 g butter (room temperature (1/2 cup)); 350 g granulated sugar (1 3/4 cups); 5 large eggs (room temperature, separated (approx. 250 g without shells)); 1.25 ml almond extract (1/4 tsp); 5 ml vanilla extract (1 tsp); 4 g baking powder (1 tsp); 3 g baking soda (1/2 tsp); 3 g kosher salt (1/2 tsp); 270 g cake flour (2 1/4 cups); 240 ml buttermilk (1 cup); 85 g sweetened flaked coconut (1 cup); 85 g chopped pecans (3/4 cup); 0.75 g cream of tartar (1/4 tsp); 450 g cream cheese (room temperature (two 8 oz blocks)); 227 g butter (room temperature (1 cup)); 960 g powdered sugar (8 cups); 5 ml vanilla extract (1 tsp); 2.5 ml almond extract (1/2 tsp); 120 g chopped pecans (plus more for garnish if desired (1 cup))

Jump to Recipe

Italian Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of the South right to your table. This classic cake is rich, moist, and layered with delicious flavors of coconut and pecans, all topped off with a creamy cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any family gathering where you want to impress your loved ones with something truly special. Whether you’re celebrating or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to be the star of the show!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Cream Cake

This Italian Cream Cake is not just another dessert; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Rich and moist layers that melt in your mouth.
Delicious bites of coconut and crunchy pecans throughout.
Simple yet elegant presentation for any occasion.
Perfectly balanced sweetness that appeals to everyone.
Versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round.
Easy Italian Cream Cake recipe that anyone can master.
Ideal for celebrations, making it a true Southern Italian Cream Cake.

Ingredients for Italian Cream Cake

Gather these items:

120 ml vegetable oil (1/2 cup)
113 g butter (room temperature (1/2 cup))
350 g granulated sugar (1 3/4 cups)
5 large eggs (room temperature, separated (approx. 250 g without shells))
1.25 ml almond extract (1/4 tsp)
5 ml vanilla extract (1 tsp)
4 g baking powder (1 tsp)
3 g baking soda (1/2 tsp)
3 g kosher salt (1/2 tsp)
270 g cake flour (2 1/4 cups)
240 ml buttermilk (1 cup)
85 g sweetened flaked coconut (1 cup)
85 g chopped pecans (3/4 cup)
0.75 g cream of tartar (1/4 tsp)
450 g cream cheese (room temperature (two 8 oz blocks))
227 g butter (room temperature (1 cup))
960 g powdered sugar (8 cups)
5 ml vanilla extract (1 tsp)
2.5 ml almond extract (1/2 tsp)
120 g chopped pecans (plus more for garnish if desired (1 cup))

How to Make Italian Cream Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease three 9 inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Grease again and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the oil, butter, and sugar until well blended. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well and scraping the bowl as needed. Add the almond extract, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then mix until combined.
Step 3: With the mixer on low speed, add the flour and buttermilk in alternating additions, starting and ending with flour. Mix until smooth. Stir in the coconut and pecans.
Step 4: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter.
Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar slowly, scraping the bowl as needed. Add the vanilla, almond extract, and chopped pecans, then beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and repeat. Place the final layer on top and frost the entire cake. Smooth with an offset spatula and garnish with extra pecans if desired.
Step 8: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Cream Cake

Keep these in mind:

This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Garnish with additional pecans for a decorative touch.
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Use high-quality coconut for a more intense flavor.
Experiment with different nut toppings for variety.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Cream Cake

When it comes to serving this Italian Cream Cake, consider these delightful options:

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
Serve alongside fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Cream Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store it covered in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within three days of baking. For meal prep, you can freeze the layers before frosting. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap, and they’ll be ready for your next celebration!

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Cream Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Cream Cake?

The secret lies in using room temperature ingredients, which help create a smooth batter. Also, folding in beaten egg whites will give your cake a light, airy texture, making it a delightful Italian Cream Layer Cake.

Can I make Italian Cream Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the layers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just frost them before serving for the freshest taste. This makes it an Easy Italian Cream Cake to prepare for any occasion.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Cream Cake?

To avoid dryness, make sure not to overbake the cake. Always check for doneness with a toothpick. Also, ensure proper measurements of your ingredients for the best results in your Italian Cream Cake Recipe.

Variations of Italian Cream Cake You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider these delicious variations:

Italian Cream Cheesecake: Combine the flavors of cheesecake with the traditional cake for a rich dessert.
Italian Coconut Cake: Increase the coconut for a more tropical flavor.
Italian Cream Sponge Cake: Use a sponge cake base for a lighter option.
Homemade Italian Cream Cake: Experiment with different frostings, like a chocolate ganache, for a unique twist.

For more delicious recipes, check out Cranberry Orange Pancakes or Gingerbread Cookies.