Ultimate Italian Cream Cheese Cake Recipe
Indulge in the rich and fluffy goodness of this homemade Italian Cream Cheese Cake! This Southern classic is a show-stopping dessert with layers of moist cake, crunchy pecans, sweet coconut, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Cream Cheese Cake
- Moist and Fluffy Texture – The combination of buttermilk, egg whites, and creamed butter creates an incredibly light and tender crumb.
- Rich Flavor – A perfect balance of sweetness from coconut and nuttiness from pecans.
- Creamy & Decadent Frosting – Made with smooth cream cheese and butter for a velvety finish.
- Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family gathering or a celebration, this cake will be the star of the dessert table.
Ingredients for Italian Cream Cheese Cake
For the Cake:
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup shortening
- 2 cups sugar
- 5 eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1½ cups flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 2 packages cream cheese (one 8 oz, one 3 oz), softened
- ¾ cup butter, softened
- 6 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Cream the Butter & Sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a soft cake.
- Add the Egg Yolks & Vanilla – Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each yolk is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda.
- Alternate Dry & Wet Ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture.
- Add Coconut & Pecans – Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
- Beat Until Stiff Peaks Form – In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for a light and airy cake.
- Fold Gently into the Batter – Carefully fold a fourth of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it, then gently fold in the remaining whites. Be careful not to overmix, as this will deflate the air incorporated into the egg whites.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Prepare the Pans – Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. Evenly divide the batter among the pans.
- Bake to Perfection – Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely – Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the Cream Cheese & Butter – In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Confectioners’ Sugar – Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the Vanilla & Pecans – Mix in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans for added flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Cake – Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
- Frost the Sides & Top – Use an offset spatula to evenly spread the frosting over the entire cake.
- Decorate – Garnish with additional chopped pecans and shredded coconut for an elegant finish.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate the Cake – Store the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to set.
- Slice & Enjoy – Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Italian Cream Cake
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures the ingredients blend evenly and create a smoother batter.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
✔ Whip Egg Whites Properly – Stiff peaks should form and hold their shape when you lift the whisk.
✔ Chill the Cake for a Firmer Frosting – Refrigerating the cake for an hour before slicing helps the frosting set beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Cake Mix Instead of Making It from Scratch?
Yes! To save time, you can use a white or yellow cake mix as a base and enhance it with buttermilk, coconut, and pecans for a homemade taste.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cake can be baked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Frost it the next day for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
Can I Freeze Italian Cream Cheese Cake?
Yes! Wrap each cake layer in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.
Variations & Substitutions
- No Buttermilk? – Substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Nut-Free Version – Omit the pecans if you have a nut allergy. The cake will still taste delicious!
- Extra Flavor Boost – Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to enhance the nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Twist – Stir in ½ cup white chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
Why This Italian Cream Cake Stands Out
This Italian Cream Cake is not just a dessert—it’s an experience. The perfect balance of sweet, creamy, nutty, and fluffy textures makes it irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, birthday, or weekend treat, this cake will be the highlight of any gathering.
Final Thoughts
If you love classic Southern desserts, this Italian Cream Cheese Cake is a must-try. The rich flavors of pecans and coconut combined with luxurious cream cheese frosting create a truly unforgettable cake. Try it today, and don’t forget to share your results!
Did you make this recipe? Let us know in the comments and tag us on Pinterest for a chance to be featured!
