Italian Cream Cake, a delightful and indulgent dessert, is known for its rich flavors and luxurious texture. Originating from the south of the United States rather than Italy, the name may come from the use of cream cheese, which at the time was considered an Italian ingredient in certain parts of America. This cake has become a beloved treat for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. It combines the airiness of sponge cake with the richness of a cream cheese frosting, embellished with the crunchiness of toasted pecans and the sweetness of coconut flakes. This cake is a true testament to the fusion of different culinary traditions, resulting in a dessert that is both comforting and decadent.
When serving Italian Cream Cake, simplicity is key to let its flavors shine. The cake itself is a showstopper, so it requires little in the way of accompaniments. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of elegance, and for those who enjoy coffee, a cup of strong espresso or cappuccino makes an excellent pairing, cutting through the richness of the cake. If you’re looking to balance the sweetness, you might consider serving it with a side of fresh berries for a tart contrast or a scoop of vanilla gelato for an indulgently creamy complement.
Italian Cream Cake
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1/2 cup shortening
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 5 large eggs, separated
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup buttermilk
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1 cup flaked coconut
– 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
– Cream cheese frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– Additional chopped pecans and flaked coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup butter and shortening until light and fluffy. Add 2 cups granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
3. Separate the eggs. Beat the yolks one at a time into the creamed mixture, then stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking soda, then add to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk. Stir in the flaked coconut and the toasted chopped pecans.
4. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter until just blended.
5. Divide the cake batter among the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake layer comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
7. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, 1/2 cup butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is fluffy.
8. Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread the frosting between the layers, then over the top and sides of the cake.
