Name: Delicious Italian Cream Cake: 7 Tips for Perfection
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups (345 g) cake flour (spooned and leveled); 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (2 sticks, 226 g) unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar; 5 large (⅔ cup) egg whites (room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon almond extract; ¾ cup (180 g) sour cream; ¾ cup (180 ml) milk; 1 cup (85 g) sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup (114 g) toasted, chopped pecans; 16 Tablespoons (226 g, 2 sticks) unsalted butter (at room temperature); 16 ounces full fat cream cheese; 8 cups (900 g) powdered sugar; 3 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon almond extract; Pinch of salt; Toasted coconut and pecans for decorating (optional)

Italian Cream Cake is a beautiful, soft, white layer cake that captures the essence of indulgence. Made with toasted pecans, shredded coconut, and a delightful blend of vanilla and almond flavors, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat at home. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Cream Cake

This Italian Cream Cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You’ll love its light and fluffy texture, which melts in your mouth. The combination of coconut and pecans offers a delightful crunch, making each bite memorable. It’s an easy Italian Cream Cake recipe that anyone can master, and it’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a weekend treat. Plus, the creamy frosting adds a luscious finish that elevates this cake to a whole new level!

Ingredients for Italian Cream Cake

Gather these items:

3 cups (345 g) cake flour (spooned and leveled)
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks, 226 g) unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
5 large (⅔ cup) egg whites (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
¾ cup (180 g) sour cream
¾ cup (180 ml) milk
1 cup (85 g) sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup (114 g) toasted, chopped pecans
16 Tablespoons (226 g, 2 sticks) unsalted butter (at room temperature)
16 ounces full fat cream cheese
8 cups (900 g) powdered sugar
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
Pinch of salt
Toasted coconut and pecans for decorating (optional)

How to Make Italian Cream Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep oven and pans. Position rack in the center oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease three 8-inch round pans with shortening or non-stick spray, then line with parchment paper and grease again.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients. Sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream butter and sugar. In a stand mixer bowl with paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add extracts and eggs. With the mixer running, slowly add in the egg whites mixing to combine. Add in the vanilla and almond extracts.
Step 5: Alternate the dry ingredients and sour cream/milk. Mix together the milk and sour cream. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
Step 6: Add mix-ins. Fold in the coconut and pecans until evenly incorporated.
Step 7: Bake cakes. Divide the batter equally into prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cake springs back when gently touched.
Step 8: Prepare frosting. In a stand mixer, beat the butter until smooth, then add cream cheese and beat until combined. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth. Add the extracts and a pinch of salt.
Step 9: Level the cake layers. Use a serrated knife to ensure they’re flat and even.
Step 10: Assemble the cake. Place the first layer on a cake board, spread frosting, and repeat for additional layers. Apply a crumb coat and chill.
Step 11: Frost the entire cake. Use a spatula for an even finish, then decorate with toasted coconut and pecans as desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Cream Cake

Keep these in mind:

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Use a serrated knife for leveling the cake layers to achieve a flat surface.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Consider chilling the cake after applying the crumb coat to set it properly.
For an extra touch, toast the coconut and pecans before using them in the cake or as decoration.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Cream Cake

This Italian Cream Cake with cream cheese frosting is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For special occasions, serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. You can also create a layered dessert by serving slices with whipped cream and a side of fruit.

Delicious Italian Cream Cake: 7 Tips for Perfection - Italian Cream Cake - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Italian Cream Cake

You can store this cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, bake the cake layers and frost them on the day of serving for the best taste. For meal prep, consider freezing the layers, and frost them after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Cream Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Cream Cake?

The key to a perfect Italian Cream Cake is ensuring that all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps in creating a smooth batter and fluffy cake. Also, don’t rush the creaming process; the butter and sugar need to be light and fluffy to incorporate air for a tender cake.

Can I make Italian Cream Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best flavor and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Cream Cake?

To avoid dry cake, don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate, as baking too hot or too cold can affect the cake’s rise and texture.

Variations of Italian Cream Cake You Can Try

There are numerous ways to enjoy this classic Italian Cream Cake. You can experiment with different extracts, such as adding lemon or orange for a citrus twist. Consider using different nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even a chocolate variation by adding cocoa powder to the batter. For a fun twist, try creating a layered cake with alternating flavors or fillings between layers.

For more cake recipes, check out our birthday cake ideas or learn about baking techniques to enhance your skills. If you’re interested in the history of cakes, visit this article for more insights.