Delicious Italian Cream Cake Recipe
Italian Cream Cake is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavors of coconut and pecans with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This indulgent treat is a favorite at special occasions and family gatherings. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating your own Italian Cream Cake that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 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
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg Yolks
- Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each yolk is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
Step 5: Alternate Additions
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Coconut and Pecans
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
Step 7: Beat Egg Whites
- In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
Step 8: Fold in Egg Whites
- Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter.
Step 9: Bake
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on wire racks.
Step 11: Prepare the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 12: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
Step 13: Frost the Cake
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
Step 14: Garnish
- Optionally, garnish the cake with additional shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
Conclusion
Italian Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. With its rich, nutty, and coconutty flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade Italian Cream Cake!
