Description
When it comes to baking a dessert that leaves everyone at the table swooning, few treats compare to a Simple Italian Cream Cake for Any Occasion. This moist, flavorful cake is layered with cream cheese frosting, toasted pecans, and shredded coconut, making it perfect for celebrations big and small. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday, wedding, or family gathering, this Italian Cream Cake will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients:
- 1 package white cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 can shredded coconut
- ⅔ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 3 tablespoons rum (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- ½ cup butter (room temperature)
- 1 package (16 oz) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Combine the white cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, and vegetable oil in a large mixing bowl.
- Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture for 2 minutes on medium speed until smooth.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
- Bake the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350℉.
- Grease three 9-inch cake pans and divide the batter evenly among them.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the pans from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely.
- Add a Touch of Rum (Optional):
- Lightly brush the tops of the cooled cake layers with rum for a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Let the cakes sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together in a medium bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 cup of chopped toasted pecans.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Repeat with the second and third layers, covering the top and sides of the cake.
- Chill Before Serving:
- Refrigerate the frosted cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
- Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs, butter, and cream cheese for a smoother batter and frosting.
- Toasting Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet or oven for 5-7 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Even Layers: Use a kitchen scale to ensure each cake pan gets an equal amount of batter.
- Chilling Time: Don’t skip chilling the cake before slicing—it makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American