layered Italian cream cake is more than just a dessert; it is a heartfelt embrace in every bite, a true labor of love that speaks volumes of tradition and sweet celebration. For me, a beautifully presented layered Italian cream cake brings back cherished memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the simple joy of sharing something truly special. This iconic treat, with its delicate, moist crumb and decadent cream cheese frosting studded with pecans and coconut, has always been a beacon of comfort and pure indulgence. Get ready to create your own cherished moments with this magnificent layered Italian cream cake.
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Why You Will Love This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
You are going to adore this layered Italian cream cake recipe because it perfectly blends elegance with approachability. Imagine a dessert that looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery, yet is entirely achievable in your own kitchen—especially if you’re already familiar with foundational baking recipes like this classic vanilla sponge cake.
This cake offers a remarkable balance of textures and flavors, from the tender cake layers to the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. It is a recipe that brings immense joy, not just in eating, but in the making. The process itself feels like a comforting ritual, a true Italian love dessert experience. We will share all the secrets to ensure your cake is moist, flavorful, and a showstopper every single time. It is special because it is designed for home bakers to achieve professional results with ease.
Ingredients Needed for This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful layered Italian cream cake. Using fresh, quality components will truly make a difference in the final flavor and texture.
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
How to Make This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
Creating a stunning layered Italian cream cake is a joy, and these step by step instructions will guide you to perfection. Take your time with each stage, and you will be rewarded with an unforgettable dessert.
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8 inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
- 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- 3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- 4. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- 5. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk.
- 6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. Fold in the ½ cup shredded coconut and ½ cup chopped pecans.
- 7. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter in two additions until just incorporated. This step lightens the cake.
- 8. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
To Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy.
- 2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- 3. Stir in the vanilla extract. Fold in the ½ cup shredded coconut and ½ cup chopped pecans.
To Assemble the layered Italian cream cake:
- 1. Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread about one fifth of the frosting evenly over the top.
- 2. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with another fifth of the frosting.
- 3. Add the final cake layer and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake smoothly. You can create decorative swirls if desired.
- 4. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.
How to Serve This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
Serving your magnificent layered Italian cream cake is the culmination of your efforts, a moment to truly savor. This rich, moist cake is best served at room temperature, allowing the frosting to soften slightly and the flavors to truly sing. Take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before slicing.
For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish each slice with a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans or a few delicate coconut flakes. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful finishing touch. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of robust espresso or a glass of dessert wine, enhancing its rich profile. Each slice is an Italian love dessert ready to be enjoyed.
How to Store This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
Proper storage is key to keeping your layered Italian cream cake fresh and delicious. Because of its cream cheese frosting, this cake must be refrigerated.
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the entire cake (unfrosted or frosted, carefully wrapped). To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in a freezer safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature to serve.
Tips to Make This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
Achieving the perfect layered Italian cream cake is easy with these helpful tips and tricks.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to cream together smoothly, resulting in a light and airy batter and frosting.
- Do Not Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake.
- Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar for the frosting prevents lumps, ensuring a silky smooth texture.
- Toasting Nuts and Coconut: For an intensified flavor, lightly toast your pecans and coconut before adding them to the cake batter and frosting. This simple step adds depth.
- Cool Completely: Make sure your cake layers are absolutely cold before frosting. Warm layers will melt the frosting, creating a messy result.
Helpful Notes for This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
Here are a few extra clarifications and recommendations to ensure your layered Italian cream cake turns out perfectly every time.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you do not have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own. Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a liquid measuring cup, then fill the rest of the cup with whole milk until it reaches the 1 cup mark. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
- Equipment: While a stand mixer makes quick work of creaming butter and sugar and beating egg whites, a hand mixer will also work beautifully. Ensure you have three 8 inch round cake pans.
- Pecan and Coconut Prep: For the best texture in your cake, finely chop the pecans. The shredded coconut can be left as is or chopped slightly for a more uniform texture.
Variation of This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
This layered Italian cream cake recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for creative twists and seasonal modifications.
- Citrus Zest: For a brighter flavor, add the zest of one orange or lemon to the cake batter. This adds a lovely aromatic note that complements the cream cheese.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for a warm, comforting spiced version, especially wonderful in the cooler months.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting, drizzle the top of the cake with melted dark chocolate for an extra layer of decadence and a beautiful presentation. This transforms it into a truly decadent Italian love dessert.
- Nut Free Option: If you have nut allergies, you can easily omit the pecans from both the cake and frosting. The cake will still be incredibly delicious with just the coconut.
FAQs About This layered Italian cream cake Recipe
Q: Can I make this layered Italian cream cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake actually benefits from being made a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully, and the cake becomes even more moist. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
Q: Why do my egg whites need to be beaten separately?
A: Beating the egg whites to stiff peaks and folding them in gently adds air to the batter. This creates a lighter, fluffier texture for your layered Italian cream cake, which is a hallmark of this classic recipe.
Q: What if I do not have three cake pans?
A: If you only have two cake pans, you can bake two layers first, let them cool, and then bake the third layer. Alternatively, you could bake the batter in two thicker layers and then slice each layer horizontally to create four thinner layers. Just be sure to adjust baking times accordingly.
Conclusion
This layered Italian cream cake is a true celebration of tradition, love, and homemade baking. With its soft layers, rich frosting, and comforting flavors, it is the kind of dessert that turns any gathering into a cherished memory. Whether served for holidays, birthdays, or special family moments, this cake always leaves a lasting impression.
If you enjoyed this recipe and love elegant desserts, layered cakes, and comforting classics, I warmly invite you to visit my Pinterest. You will find beautiful dessert ideas, easy baking recipes, and sweet inspiration to save and recreate whenever you need a show-stopping treat.