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If you are craving a dessert that feels like a warm family hug in cake form, this Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It effortlessly brings together moist layers of tender white cake, luscious shredded coconut, and toasted pecans, all crowned with a dreamy cream cheese frosting bursting with flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself on a regular day, this cake promises to be a standout that’s surprisingly easy to whip up in no time.

Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe calls for simple ingredients that pack incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays its part, from the fluffy white cake base to the rich cream cheese frosting, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of nutty crunch.

White cake mixture: Using a high-quality mix ensures a moist and tender crumb.

Large eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the batter.
Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and keeps the cake super moist.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake soft and helps retain moisture.
Shredded coconut: Adds chewy texture and a tropical flavor twist.

Toasted pecans (⅔ cup, chopped): Infuses a delightful crunch and nutty warmth inside the cake.
Rum (3 tablespoons): Optional but highly recommended for a subtle depth of flavor.
Cream cheese: The base for a rich, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the cake.

Butter (½ cup): Adds creaminess and smoothness to the frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and lightens the frosting texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with a sweet aroma.
Toasted pecans (1 cup, chopped): Mixed into the frosting for extra crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Make Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by adding the white cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, and vegetable oil into a mixing bowl. Use an electric beater and whip everything for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Then gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped toasted pecans, which will give delightful bursts of flavor and texture in every bite.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the silky batter evenly into three well-greased 9-inch cake pans. Pop them in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 15 to 17 minutes. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick comes out clean. This quick baking time keeps the cake tender but perfectly cooked through.

Step 3: Cool and Add Rum (Optional)

Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. If you love that classic Italian cream cake flair, drizzle 3 tablespoons of rum over the top layers and let them soak for 10 minutes. This step adds a beautiful, aromatic richness that takes the cake to the next level.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until they become smooth and creamy. Slowly add in the powdered sugar, beating continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and 1 cup of chopped toasted pecans to add crunch and a deep nutty flavor that complements the coconut inside the cake.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Once the cake layers have fully cooled, generously frost each layer and the top of the cake with the cream cheese mixture. Smooth it out or create swirls for a homemade look. Pop the cake into the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the frosting to set perfectly.

How to Serve Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Presentation makes all the difference, and this cake loves a little extra love on top. Freshly chopped toasted pecans sprinkled over the frosting add classy crunch. For a festive touch, consider a few coconut flakes or edible flowers to brighten up the cake before serving.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy contrast or a fresh cup of coffee or espresso to balance out the sweetness. A light fruit salad, especially with berries or citrus segments, also complements the richness of the Italian cream cake without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe shine for gatherings, try layering it in a trifle bowl with alternating cream cheese frosting and fresh berries. Or pipe small rosettes of frosting around the edges and add pecans on each for a refined finish. Individual slices can also be served on leaf-shaped plates or with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake stays moist and the frosting maintains its flavor and texture for up to 3 days. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best experience.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, you can freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before frosting. For best results, frost the cake fresh after it’s thawed.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not typically recommended. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften up the frosting and cake layers.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without rum?

Absolutely! The rum adds a lovely depth of flavor, but you can skip it or replace it with a teaspoon of rum extract or vanilla if you want to keep it alcohol-free without losing the cake’s signature taste.

Is it necessary to use toasted pecans? Can I use another nut?

Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and crunch, but if you’re out of pecans, walnuts or almonds toasted lightly make excellent substitutes that will bring a similar texture and warmth to the cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free white cake mix and ensure any added ingredients like coconut and pecans are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same and yields just as delicious a cake.

How long does the cake need to chill before serving?

We recommend chilling the cake for at least 2 hours. This allows the cream cheese frosting to set properly and the flavors from the rum drizzle to fully meld into the cake layers.

What’s the best way to get even cake layers?

For perfect, even layers, use a kitchen scale to divide the batter equally among the pans or use a measuring cup to pour equal amounts. You can also level the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife after baking if they dome slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe is one of those joyful desserts that bring smiles and nostalgia with every bite. It manages to be both simple and elegant, perfect for impressing loved ones or indulging yourself. Don’t hesitate to give it a try — once you do, this creamy, nutty, and moist treat will likely become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!

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Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe