Italian Cream Cake Recipe
The Italian Cream Cake is a true Southern classic that brings together rich textures and bold flavors, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and memorable. With its combination of buttery layers, coconut, and toasted pecans, this italian cream cake is sure to become a favorite at family gatherings, celebrations, or any special occasion. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake not only tastes heavenly but also looks stunning, making it a perfect showstopper for your dessert table.
Ingredients Breakdown
Key Components for a Rich Flavor
The blend of butter and vegetable shortening creates a unique richness that helps develop a moist crumb. The sugar ensures the cake has the right sweetness, while the egg yolks contribute to a tender, soft texture. Every ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect bite.
The Role of Coconut and Pecans
The sweetened shredded coconut not only adds a burst of flavor but also contributes to the cake’s moistness. Toasted pecans bring a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft cake layers, providing both texture and flavor in every bite.
How Buttermilk Enhances the Texture
Buttermilk is the secret weapon in many traditional Southern cakes. Its slight acidity helps tenderize the flour, ensuring a light and fluffy texture. It also enhances the flavor of the cake, adding a slight tang that balances the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cake Batter
Begin by creaming the butter and vegetable shortening together. This step is essential to create a light and airy batter, which will translate to a soft cake. Once the butter mixture is fluffy, sugar is added gradually to maintain that lightness. Adding the egg yolks one by one ensures they blend smoothly, allowing for a cohesive mixture.
Baking Tips for Perfect Layers
When alternating between the dry ingredients and the buttermilk, ensure you start and end with the dry mixture. This method helps prevent over-mixing, which can lead to a denser cake. Use a gentle hand when folding in the stiff egg whites this will add volume to the batter and result in beautifully risen layers.
How to Make the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting
The frosting starts with softened cream cheese and butter, whipped together until smooth. Gradually adding powdered sugar ensures the frosting doesn’t become too stiff. The pecans add a delightful crunch, while vanilla extract brings a depth of flavor. If the frosting becomes too thick, adding a tablespoon of milk will bring it back to a spreadable consistency.
Assembling Your Cake for a Beautiful Presentation
Once your layers have cooled completely, begin assembling by spreading a generous layer of frosting on the first layer. Stack the second layer and repeat the process, ensuring each layer is even. For the final touch, frost the top and sides, creating a smooth, even finish. The cake should then be chilled to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
Recipe Tips
- Ensuring Evenly Baked Layers: Rotate the cake pans halfway through baking to avoid uneven browning. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
- Tips for Beating Egg Whites to Stiff Peaks: Ensure your bowl and whisk are completely clean and dry. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can help stabilize the egg whites.
- How to Toast Pecans for Extra Flavor: Spread pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway. Allow them to cool before chopping.
- Adjusting Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add powdered sugar gradually until the desired thickness is achieved.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Perfect Beverage Pairings
A slice of Italian Cream Cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a rich espresso. The bold flavors of coffee enhance the nuttiness of the pecans and the sweetness of the coconut. For a refreshing option, try serving it with a chilled glass of milk or a cup of hot tea.
Complementary Side Desserts
For a complete dessert spread, consider serving light and fruity desserts alongside the Italian Cream Cake. Fresh fruit tarts or lemon bars can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake, balancing out the overall experience.
Best Occasions to Serve Italian Cream Cake recipe
This cake is an excellent choice for birthdays, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for an impressive dessert. Its elegant layers and rich frosting make it the perfect centerpiece for any celebration.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
How to Store Your Cake for Maximum Freshness
Italian Cream Cake should be stored in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its freshness. The cake will keep for up to 5 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days.
Freezing and Defrosting Tips
If you’d like to prepare the cake in advance, the layers can be baked and frozen for up to two months. Simply wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to assemble, allow the layers to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Making the Cake in Advance
You can also make the frosting up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before frosting the cake. This allows you to assemble the cake quickly on the day of your event.
Final Touches for Presentation
How to Garnish Your Cake for a Stunning Finish
To elevate the visual appeal of your Italian Cream Cake, consider adding toasted coconut or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. This not only adds a decorative touch but also hints at the flavors within.
Creative Decorating Ideas Using Extra Pecans and Coconut
Sprinkle toasted pecans along the sides of the cake or gently press them into the frosting. For a tropical touch, add some toasted coconut flakes on top for extra crunch and sweetness.
Italian Cream Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 8 tablespoons butter 1 stick, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 5 egg yolks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
- 5 egg whites beaten to stiff peaks
Frosting
- 8- ounce package cream cheese softened
- 6 tablespoons butter softened
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups chopped toasted pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and lightly flour three 9-inch round cake pans for easy cake removal.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and shortening until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the sugar to the mixture, beating until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each yolk is fully blended before adding the next.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- Alternately add the dry mixture and the buttermilk to the creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the shredded coconut and toasted pecans, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Gently fold the stiffly beaten egg whites into the cake batter, using a spatula to maintain the fluffy texture.
- Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops, and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by 1 3/4 cups of chopped toasted pecans. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk until you reach the desired consistency.
- To assemble, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of the first cake layer. Place the second layer on top, and cover with more frosting. Repeat with the third layer, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and allow the flavors to meld.