Discover the rich, delightful flavors of Italian Cream Cake—a classic Southern treat with a touch of Italian elegance. This cake is celebrated for its moist texture and creamy frosting, featuring a blend of coconut, pecans, and buttermilk. Whether for a special occasion or a delicious everyday indulgence, this recipe will impress with its sophisticated taste and perfect crumb.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (for garnish)
- ½ cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
- Bake the Cake:
- 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.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and spread with more frosting.
- Top with the final cake layer and frost the sides and top of the cake.
- Garnish with shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this classic Italian treat!
This Italian Cream Cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering, offering a blend of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.