Italian Cream Cheese Cake
Buttermilk makes every bite of this awesome dessert moist and flavorful. I rely on this recipe year-round.
Buttermilk makes every bite of this awesome dessert moist and flavorful. I rely on this recipe year-round.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 6 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3/4 cup butter softened
- cream cheese frosting:
- 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- 11 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1-1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 5 large nellie’s free range eggs separated
- Carbohydrate 131.32310713444 g
- Cholesterol 124.100715695715 mg
- Fat 61.0490782758264 g
- Fiber 2.08850007257864 g
- Protein 6.09688033148561 g
- Saturated Fat 30.3205659349769 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (268g)
- Sodium 9917.6708323318 mg
- Sugar 129.234607061861 g
- Trans Fat 4.54850734615965 g
- Calories 1074 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large bowl, cream butter, shortening and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg yolks and vanilla.
- Combine flour and baking soda; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk.
- Beat until just combined.
- Stir in coconut and pecans.
- In another bowl, beat egg whites with clean beaters until stiff but not dry.
- Fold one-fourth of the egg whites into batter, then fold in remaining whites.
- Pour into three greased and floured 9-in. round pans.
- Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 20-25 minutes.
- Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Beat in confectioners' sugar and vanilla until fluffy.
- Stir in pecans.
- Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides of cake.
- Refrigerate.
My Favorite Italian Cream Cheese Cake: A Slice of Heaven
As a busy professional woman, juggling work, social life, and a sprinkle of self-care, finding time to bake can feel like a luxury. Yet, there's something incredibly therapeutic about creating something delicious from scratch. This Italian Cream Cheese Cake isn't just a dessert; it's a testament to the magic of slowing down and savoring the simple pleasures. The rich, moist cake layers, perfectly complemented by the creamy, dreamy frosting, have become a staple in my repertoire, whether it's for a special occasion or a much-needed self-indulgent treat.
The recipe itself is surprisingly straightforward. The secret to the cake’s remarkable texture lies in the buttermilk, which adds incredible moisture, preventing any dryness and ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. The addition of coconut adds a subtle sweetness that’s far from overpowering, and the pecans bring a delightful crunch. I've tweaked the recipe slightly over the years, adding a touch more vanilla to enhance the overall flavor profile, a change that has elevated this classic recipe to new heights.
Making this cake is a journey in itself. The process of creaming the butter and sugar, the careful folding of the egg whites, the intoxicating aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes—it all adds to the overall experience. It's a reminder to appreciate the little moments, the quiet satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious. The creamy, luscious frosting perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake, its delicate vanilla notes intertwining with the crunchy pecans to create a symphony of flavors. It’s a dessert that’s perfect for sharing, but honestly, I find it hard to resist devouring a slice (or two) all on my own!
The best part? This cake is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or macadamia nuts, to add your personal twist. You could also infuse the frosting with a hint of citrus zest for a surprising, refreshing twist. The possibilities are truly endless. However you decide to make it, this Italian Cream Cheese Cake is guaranteed to become a new favorite, a delightful escape in the midst of a busy week, or the perfect centerpiece for any celebration.
Beyond the sheer deliciousness, this cake holds a special significance. It reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen, filled with the warmth of family, the comforting aroma of baking, and the sweet memories shared around a table laden with homemade treats. Every time I bake this cake, I'm transported back to those cherished moments, a testament to the power of food to connect us across time and generations. It's more than just a recipe; it's a legacy.
So, whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, I urge you to give this Italian Cream Cheese Cake a try. It's a recipe that’s easy to follow, yet yields incredibly rewarding results. The joy of creating, the satisfaction of sharing, and the sheer deliciousness of the final product—all are worth the effort. Trust me on this one. You won't be disappointed.
Remember to always use high-quality ingredients; the better the ingredients, the better the outcome. And don't be afraid to experiment! Baking is an art, and your personal touch is what will truly make this cake your own. Enjoy the journey, and happy baking!
