Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for rich, moist, and utterly delightful desserts, then this Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Packed with the perfect balance of fluffy coconut, crunchy pecans, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake offers a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It’s a stunning centerpiece for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations, and the way the flavors come together is simply magical. Trust me, once you dig into this classic, you’ll always want it on your dessert table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to the success of this Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe. Each item plays a vital role, whether it’s ensuring the cake’s tender crumb, adding to its rich flavor, or providing that satisfying texture contrast.

• Unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture for a soft cake texture.
• Shortening: Helps keep the cake tender and moist without extra butter flavor.
• Sugar: Sweetens the batter and aids in creating a light crumb.
• Large eggs (separated, room temperature): Yolks enrich the batter while beaten whites lighten it for fluffiness.
• Vanilla extract: Gives a warm, aromatic depth to the cake.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake’s structure.
• Baking soda: Helps the batter rise and keeps it light.
• Buttermilk (room temperature): Adds tender moisture and a subtle tang.
• Shredded coconut: Delivers chewy texture and tropical flavor inside and on top.
• Finely chopped pecans: Provide a pleasant crunch and nutty contrast.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): The star ingredient of the frosting for smooth, creamy indulgence.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.

How to Make Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepping three 9-inch round pans. Grease each pan thoroughly, then lightly dust with flour to make sure your cake layers come out clean and intact. This small step makes a big difference in your final presentation.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter, shortening, and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 5 to 7 minutes. This creaming step incorporates air, giving your cake that beautiful tender crumb and subtle sweetness.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Next, add the egg yolks and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Beat until everything is well combined. The yolks add richness while the vanilla infuses the cake with its classic warm aroma.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Add Alternately with Buttermilk

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with the buttermilk, mixing just until combined. This gentle mixing ensures a moist cake without overworking the batter.

Step 5: Fold in Coconut and Pecans

Now stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. These add delightful bursts of flavor and texture – the coconut brings chewiness, and the pecans add that beloved crunch.

Step 6: Whip Egg Whites and Incorporate

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold these into the batter—this is the secret to a light, airy cake. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, ready to bake.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake your cake layers for about 20 to 25 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center—it should come out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step helps the layers firm up before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about five minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat for another five minutes until the frosting becomes light and fluffy. This creamy frosting will be the perfect complement to the moist cake layers.

Step 9: Assemble and Frost

Spread the cream cheese frosting generously between each cake layer, then cover the top and sides of the entire cake. Smooth it out or get creative with your frosting texture—either way, this step is pure joy.

Step 10: Garnish with Toasted Coconut and Pecans

Finish your masterpiece by sprinkling toasted coconut and more chopped pecans over the top and sides. Toasting the coconut gives it a rich nuttiness, elevating the flavor and adding a beautiful golden hue.

How to Serve Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhancing this cake with garnishes like extra toasted coconut and chopped pecans adds texture and visual appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also create a snowy, elegant effect that invites guests to dig right in.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a simple fruit compote, which adds a refreshing contrast to its richness. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine will also complement the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, consider serving slices on vintage dessert plates with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of fresh mint. For a more casual gathering, portion the cake into petite squares and display them on a rustic wooden board for an inviting presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen over a day or two, making your cake taste even better the next day. It should last up to a week when properly stored.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, leave a slice at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, allowing the frosting to soften just a bit.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter in the Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe?

While margarine can be used, it won’t provide the same richness and depth of flavor as butter and shortening combination. For the best texture and taste, stick to unsalted butter and shortening as suggested.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on cream cheese, butter, and buttermilk, which are dairy products. However, you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and non-dairy butter substitutes, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary.

How do I toast shredded coconut for the cake topping?

Simply spread shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet and place in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown. Keep a close eye as it can burn quickly.

Can I make this cake in a different pan size or shape?

You can adapt the recipe to different pan sizes, but baking times will vary. If using a single large pan, increase baking time and keep checking doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.

What makes this an Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe rather than just a regular cream cheese cake?

Italian Cream Cheese Cake is distinct because of the coconut and pecans folded into the batter, the use of buttermilk, and the creamy, rich frosting. These ingredients and techniques give it a unique texture and flavor profile that sets it apart from a standard cream cheese cake.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a special occasion all at once, this Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe is just what you need. It’s a classic that never fails to impress and bring smiles to everyone at the table. So go ahead, whip up this truly delicious cake, and enjoy every heavenly bite!

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