Italian Cream Cake Recipe is a showstopper that takes your dessert game to a whole new level. With its fluffy, moist layers filled with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion.
It’s speckled with shredded coconut and chopped pecans, giving it a delightful texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Pair it with indulgent Chocolate-Covered Strawberries for a touch of decadence, or enjoy a refreshing glass of Limoncello to cut through the sweetness with its citrusy zest.
This cake has all the right flavors and a bit of Italian flair, making it ideal for special celebrations or when you just need a treat that feels like a celebration.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- A perfect balance of sweetness: The tangy cream cheese frosting and light cake make it the perfect dessert.
- A classic with a twist: With coconut and pecans, it’s a unique spin on a traditional favorite.
- Great for special occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or family gathering, this cake makes any day feel like a celebration.
- Easy to make but looks impressive: No need for complex techniques—this cake looks stunning every time.
Italian Cream Cake Recipe
A soft and moist coconut cake with a rich, creamy frosting. Topped with chopped walnuts and extra coconut, it’s perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat.
Equipment
- 3 (9-inch) round cake pans
- Electric mixer
- Small Bowl
- Medium bowl
- Wire Rack
- Toothpick
Ingredients
Coconut Cake:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup shortening
- 2 cups white sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- ½ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons light cream
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup flaked coconut
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
Make Buttermilk Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and baking soda. Set aside.
Prepare Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat together butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, buttermilk mixture, vanilla, coconut, baking powder, and flour. Mix until just combined.
Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the three pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and confectioners’ sugar in a medium bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually add light cream until you reach the desired frosting consistency. Stir in chopped walnuts and coconut.
Frost the Cake:
- Spread frosting between the cooled cake layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy this delicious Italian cream cake!
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 767 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 98 g |
| Fibre | 2 g |
| Fat | 40 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Sugar | 79 g |
Creative Variations for Coconut Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!
- Tropical Pineapple Coconut Cake
Add ½ cup of crushed pineapple (drained) to the cake batter for a juicy, tropical twist. You can also fold in a bit of pineapple juice for extra flavor and moisture. - Lemon Coconut Cake
Incorporate the zest of 1 lemon into the cake batter for a bright citrusy zing. For an extra pop of flavor, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the frosting. - Chocolate Coconut Cake
Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolatey base that pairs perfectly with the coconut. Finish with a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top for a decadent touch. - Almond Coconut Cake
Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract in the cake and frosting for a sweet, nutty flavor. Garnish the cake with slivered almonds for a crunchy texture. - Coconut Cream Cake
Incorporate 1 cup of coconut cream into the cake batter for a creamier texture and richer coconut flavor. You can also add coconut cream to the frosting for extra indulgence. - Caramel Coconut Cake
Drizzle homemade caramel sauce between the layers of cake or over the top of the frosting for a rich, buttery addition that complements the coconut beautifully. - Coconut Lime Cake
Add 2 tablespoons of lime zest and 1 tablespoon of lime juice to the cake batter for a refreshing citrus kick. For the frosting, stir in some lime juice to balance the sweetness. - Coffee Coconut Cake
Stir in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder into the cake batter to add a subtle coffee flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the coconut. - Raspberry Coconut Cake
Layer fresh raspberries between the cake layers for a burst of fruity flavor. Swirl some raspberry jam into the frosting for a touch of tartness that contrasts nicely with the coconut. - Spiced Coconut Cake
Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor. This pairs well with the coconut and cream cheese frosting, especially during the fall and winter months.
These variations will help you elevate your coconut cake while offering exciting flavor twists!
