Delicious Italian Cream Cake Recipe – Easy & Moist

Imagine biting into a moist italian cream cake. The tender crumbs and creamy frosting are a delight. This easy recipe combines buttermilk, shredded coconut, and pecans for a unique taste. It’s perfect for any special moment.

Making this homemade cake takes about 1 hour. It makes 16 servings. Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes. Store it in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for 2 to 3 months.

The History and Origins of Italian Cream Cake

Exploring the italian cream cake recipe reveals a fascinating history. It didn’t come from Italy but from the Southern United States. Italian immigrants brought their cooking traditions to the South, shaping the traditional italian cream cake.

The italian cream cake origins are a bit of a mystery. It likely started in the late 19th or early 20th century. The name might come from the use of coconut and cream cheese, seen as luxurious back then. Today, the italian cream cake recipe has evolved, but the classic version is a Southern favorite.

Origins in Southern United States

The Southern United States boasts a rich culinary history. The italian cream cake is a key part of this. Italian immigrants merged their cooking with Southern styles, creating a unique treat.

Why It’s Called “Italian” Cream Cake

The name “Italian” Cream Cake comes from its exotic ingredients. Coconut and cream cheese were seen as luxurious. The name also nods to Italian immigrants’ influence on the recipe in the South.

Evolution of the Recipe

The italian cream cake recipe has changed over time. Yet, it remains a beloved part of Southern cuisine. Its history and origins continue to inspire bakers and food lovers today.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Italian Cream Cake

To make the perfect Italian Cream Cake, focus on using top-notch italian cream cake ingredients. The key ingredients are buttermilk, shredded coconut, and pecans, along with cream cheese frosting. These add the cake’s special texture and taste. Buttermilk makes it moist and tangy, while coconut brings a sweet, tropical flavor.

For the best italian cream cake recipe, ingredient quality matters a lot. Real butter and pure vanilla extract are must-haves for the best flavor and texture. The italian cream cake frosting recipe is also key. It adds a tangy, creamy touch that goes well with the cake.

Here are some key ingredients to keep in mind:

• 1 cup salted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

By using these quality ingredients and the right recipe, you’ll make a delicious, moist Italian Cream Cake. Don’t forget to focus on the italian cream cake frosting recipe for the perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Classic Italian Cream Cake Recipe

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature is key for even baking. Using an italian cream cake box recipe is fine, but making it from scratch is better. The italian cream cake recipe pioneer woman shares is a great guide.

First, mix dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Then, whisk together buttermilk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in another large bowl. Combine the dry and wet ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Add shredded coconut and pecans, then divide the batter between two 9-inch pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cake Batter Preparation

Use room temperature ingredients for the best cake. You can also make buttermilk by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with milk, standing for 5 minutes.

Baking Instructions

Baking the cake is important. Check the cake after 25 minutes, then every 5 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before cooling them completely on a wire rack.

Cream Cheese Frosting Steps

To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, beating until creamy. Adjust the powdered sugar to get the sweetness and thickness you want.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

To get the perfect italian cream cake texture, follow some key tips. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps them mix well and evenly.

Be careful not to overmix the batter. Doing so can make the cake dense and tough. It’s also important to control the cake’s moisture. This can be done by not overbaking and using the right amount of buttermilk.

By following these tips, you can make a cake that’s tender, moist, and full of flavor. Here are some more tips to keep in mind:

• Use the right ratio of ingredients, like confectioners’ sugar to cream cheese in the frosting.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as it can make the cake dense.
• Control the baking time and temperature, like baking at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make an italian cream cake with the perfect texture. Always use room temperature ingredients and control the cake’s moisture. With practice and patience, you’ll make a cake that’s truly divine.

Decorating Your Italian Cream Cake

When it comes to italian cream cake decorating, the possibilities are endless. You can choose from a variety of designs and ideas to make your cake truly unique. One popular way to decorate an italian cream cake is with toasted coconut and pecans. Simply sprinkle these ingredients on top of the cake or use them to create a border around the edges.

Another key element in italian cream cake design is the cream cheese frosting. This frosting can be used to create designs like swirls, rosettes, or borders. You can also use fresh flowers, such as roses or carnations, to create a beautiful and delicate design. For more ideas, consider the following italian cream cake ideas:

• Use a combination of toasted coconut and pecans to create a textured border
• Add a few drops of food coloring to the cream cheese frosting to create a unique hue
• Top the cake with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a pop of color and added flavor

Remember, the key to successful italian cream cake decorating is to have fun and be creative. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs and ideas until you find the one that works best for you.

Storage and Serving Recommendations

To keep your Italian cream cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This prevents drying out. For italian cream cake storage, it’s key to keep it moist and flavorful. When you serve it, make sure it’s at room temperature for the best taste.

The italian cream cake shelf life varies based on storage and ingredient freshness. It can last up to 2 days at room temperature. But, refrigeration is best for longer freshness. Here’s how to store and serve your cake:

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent drying out.
• Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for a longer period.
• Serve the cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your Italian cream cake longer. Always check the cake’s condition before serving. This ensures it’s fresh and safe to eat.

Recipe Variations and Modifications

Italian cream cake offers endless possibilities for variations. You can try different ingredients and flavors to make unique cakes. For instance, you can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

To create a gluten-free version, mix rice flour, almond flour, and coconut flour. This combination not only makes the cake gluten-free but also adds a special texture and taste. You can also make a nut-free version by swapping pecans with almonds or sunflower seeds.

Here are some variations you can try:

• Italian cream cake gluten free: replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend
• Nut-free version: replace the pecans with a different type of nut or seed
• Sheet cake adaptation: bake the cake in a large sheet pan and frost with a cream cheese frosting

These are just a few ideas for making your own unique italian cream cake. With a bit of creativity and experimentation, you can make a cake that’s both delicious and fits your dietary needs.

Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid

When baking an Italian cream cake, it’s key to know common mistakes to steer clear of. Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense and dry. Not using room temperature ingredients also affects the cake’s texture and consistency. To sidestep these errors, it’s vital to follow tips and use troubleshooting methods for Italian cream cake.

Some common blunders include over-measuring flour, which can add up to 25% more than needed. Not adjusting the oven temperature correctly is another mistake. Using an oven thermometer can cut down baking errors by 50%. Also, using room temperature ingredients helps mix the batter better, reducing lumps by 40-60%.

Here are some italian cream cake mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter
• Incorrect oven temperature
• Insufficient frosting
• Not using room temperature ingredients

By knowing these common mistakes, you can take steps to avoid them. This ensures your Italian cream cake will be perfect. Always follow tips and use troubleshooting techniques for the best results.

Conclusion: Italian Cream Cake Recipe

With the right ingredients and techniques, you can become an Italian cream cake expert. Follow the detailed italian cream cake recipe in this article. You’ll make a cake that’s moist, delicious, and looks amazing.

Don’t be afraid to try new things in baking. It’s all about having fun and enjoying the process. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try new italian cream cake variations, keep experimenting. With each try, you’ll get better and better at making italian cream cake.

Baking is both a science and an art. So, enjoy the journey and the tasty results. Savor the flavors, the texture, and the joy of making something yourself. Get ready to improve your baking skills and become an italian cream cake expert yourself.

Delicious Italian Cream Cake Recipe – Easy & Moist

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• Author: Thomas Culino
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 1 three-layer 9-inch cake (about 12 servings) 1x

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Description

This Italian Cream Cake is a rich, moist, and decadent dessert with layers of fluffy cake, crunchy pecans, and coconut, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. A Southern favorite with Italian influence, this cake is perfect for special occasions and holiday gatherings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cake:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped pecans (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, oil, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Separate the eggs. Add egg yolks to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the coconut and pecans.
7. In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the batter.
8. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Prepare the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
12. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting, then repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the top and sides.
13. Garnish with chopped pecans. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

• For extra moisture, substitute vegetable oil with 1 cup of sour cream.
• Make ahead: Cake layers can be baked and frozen for up to 2 months before frosting.
• Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: ~550
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 6g

Keywords: Italian Cream Cake

If you’re curious about classic desserts, discover what is the traditional Italian cake and explore its rich history and flavors in our detailed guide.