Italian-American Cream Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes  

   Prep Time: 40 minutes

Italian-American Cream Cake Ingredients

Italian-American Cream Cake Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
  4. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) with 2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add 5 large egg yolks, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.
  6. Mix in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon almond extract.
  7. With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature) to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  8. In a separate clean bowl, beat the 5 large egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  9. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter until just incorporated.
  10. Fold in 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut and 1 cup toasted, finely chopped pecans.
  11. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
  12. Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  13. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
  14. While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat together 8 ounces cream cheese, 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, and 1/2 cup unsalted butter (all at room temperature) until smooth and creamy.
  15. Add 4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste, and 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
  16. Gradually add up to 1/2 cup cold heavy cream, beating until the frosting is light and spreadable.
  17. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
  18. Repeat with the second and third cake layers, spreading frosting between each layer and over the top and sides of the cake.
  19. Decorate the cake with 1/2 cup toasted pecan halves and 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes, arranging them as desired on top and around the sides.

Estimated Calories: 800, Servings: 12

Recommended Dishes

Italian Cream Cake Quick Mistake Fixes

If your Italian Cream Cake comes out looking like it just lost a wrestling match with a rolling pin, do not panic. Bad appearance can happen to the best of us, especially when you are in a rush to whip up a quick and easy dessert. Maybe the layers are lopsided, or the frosting looks like it was applied by a toddler with a paintbrush. The good news is, a cake that looks a little wild can still taste absolutely delicious. Sometimes, a rustic look is the best way to convince everyone it is homemade and full of love. Just dust on a little powdered sugar, throw on some toasted nuts, and call it "artisanal." You will have everyone convinced you are a cake genius with a great sense of humor.
Now, let us talk about the dreaded dryness that can sneak up on even the most experienced bakers. A dry Italian Cream Cake is like a sad opera with no high notes. If you find your cake is more Sahara than sponge, do not despair. A quick and easy fix is to brush the layers with a little simple syrup or even a splash of your favorite liqueur. This not only adds moisture but also gives a boost of flavor, making your cake taste like it came from the best bakery in town. Remember, a good cake should be moist and tender, not something you need a glass of water to get through. Keep it healthy by not overdoing the syrup, and you will have a delicious dessert that is sure to impress.
Balancing flavors at the last minute is a skill that can turn a good cake into a great one. Maybe you taste the frosting and realize it is a bit too sweet, or the cake itself is missing that zing. Do not be afraid to make fast adjustments. A squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, or a handful of toasted coconut can work wonders. The best part about baking is that it is never too late to add a little extra love. With a few quick tweaks, you can transform your cake from "just okay" to "absolutely delicious," making your recipe the star of any gathering. Remember, the secret ingredient is always a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of fun!

About Italian Cream Cake Recipe

If you're searching for the best Italian-American Cream Cake recipe, you've just found it! This delicious dessert is a true showstopper, combining rich flavors and a moist, tender crumb that will impress any crowd. The homemade cake is packed with tasty ingredients like coconut, pecans, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, making it the perfect treat for any celebration. What makes this recipe stand out is how easy and quick it is to prepare, even if you're new to baking. With just a few simple steps, you'll learn how to make an authentic Italian-inspired cake that tastes just like it came from a bakery.
One of the best things about this Italian-American favorite is its versatility. Whether you're looking for a quick dessert for a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for a special occasion, this Cream Cake recipe delivers every time. The combination of classic ingredients creates a flavor profile that's both rich and balanced, while the homemade cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy finish. If you want to know how to make the perfect cake, just follow the easy instructions and use the helpful tips included in this recipe. You'll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a tasty and authentic dessert right in your own kitchen.
Don't forget, the secret to the best Italian-American Cream Cake is using high-quality ingredients and following a few key tips for success. Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for the smoothest frosting, and don't overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy. This recipe is not only easy and quick, but it also guarantees delicious results every time. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a homemade cake that's truly perfect for any occasion!

Italian Cream Cake Story

The first time I served my version of this recipe, I expected polite nods and maybe a few compliments, but nothing could have prepared me for Aunt Linda's reaction. She took one bite, paused dramatically, and then declared, "This is the best thing I have ever tasted, and I once ate a truffle in Paris!" The room went silent, forks frozen midair, as if the cake had suddenly become a rare artifact. I was torn between pride and panic, wondering if I had accidentally invented a new food group or if Aunt Linda was just angling for a second slice before anyone else could get to it.
Later, my cousin Dave, who is usually suspicious of anything that looks remotely healthy, asked for the recipe. I nearly dropped my plate. This is the same guy who thinks a balanced diet means a burger in each hand. He said it was so delicious and easy to eat that he forgot to check if it was good for him, which, coming from Dave, is the highest praise. He even asked if it was fast to make, because he wanted to impress his friends at the next game night. I told him it was quick enough, but not as quick as his disappearing act when it is time to do the dishes.
That night stayed with me, not just because of the great reviews, but because it reminded me how food can surprise people in the best ways. Sometimes, the most unexpected reactions come from those you least expect, and it is a good reminder that sharing something homemade can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable one. Plus, now every family gathering comes with the unspoken challenge: will this dish top the last? I am just glad my cake did not start any food fights, unless you count the scramble for the last piece.

Italian Cream Cake Pairings

If you are on a quest for the best flavors to complement your Italian Cream Cake, look no further than the world of citrus and berries. A quick zest of lemon or orange can add a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness, making every bite a delicious adventure. For those who like to live on the wild side, a sprinkle of fresh raspberries or strawberries on top is a good way to add a pop of color and a burst of tartness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this easy upgrade, and your friends will think you have a secret family recipe from Nonna herself.
Now, let us talk about drinks, because what is cake without a little something to wash it down? For a non-alcoholic option, a fast and frothy cappuccino is a great match, bringing out the nutty notes in the cake and making you feel like you are sitting in a cozy Roman café. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, a glass of sweet Moscato d'Asti is the best way to keep things light and festive. Either way, you will have a healthy respect for how the right drink can turn a simple dessert into a full-blown celebration.
Sides may not be the first thing you think of with cake, but let us not underestimate the power of a good pairing. A quick scoop of vanilla gelato is an easy and delicious way to add a creamy, cold contrast to your slice. Or, if you are feeling extra fancy, a small bowl of roasted nuts-think pecans or walnuts-can add a crunchy, savory twist that makes the whole experience feel like a five-star recipe. Who knew that a few simple sides could make your Italian Cream Cake the star of the show?

Healthy Italian Cream Cake Tips

If you're on a quest to make your Italian-American Cream Cake recipe the best it can be for your health, let's get creative! Swap out some of that classic butter with Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce-your arteries will thank you, and your taste buds won't even notice the difference. For a quick and easy health boost, try using whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose. Not only does this simple switch add fiber, but it also gives your homemade cake a nutty, authentic flavor that's downright delicious. And don't forget: reducing the sugar by a third still keeps things tasty while making your recipe a bit more health-friendly.
Now, let's talk about those decadent ingredients that make this the best Italian Cream Cake recipe around. Instead of full-fat cream cheese, opt for a light or Neufchâtel version-same creamy texture, less guilt! Toss in some unsweetened coconut and chopped walnuts for extra health points and a perfect crunch. If you're wondering how to make your cake even healthier, try using egg whites or an egg substitute to cut cholesterol. With these tips, you'll have a quick, easy, and delicious cake that's both authentic and perfect for anyone looking to sneak a little health into their dessert. Who knew being healthy could taste this good?