If you’ve never tasted Italian Cream Cake before, you’re in for a real treat. This rich, moist cake layered with coconut, pecans, and fluffy cream cheese frosting is pure Southern charm in every bite. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just when you want to spoil someone special (yourself included!).
🍰 Ingredients
For the Cake:
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup vegetable shortening
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2 cups granulated sugar
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6 egg yolks
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
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1 cup chopped pecans (optional, but classic!)
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6 egg whites (beaten to stiff peaks)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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4 cups powdered sugar
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Optional: extra pecans or coconut for topping
🧁 Directions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans. You can also use parchment rounds for easier removal.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes).
Add the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking soda. Alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the coconut and pecans (if using).
Step 3: Fold in Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the batter using a spatula. Don’t overmix—this gives the cake its fluffy texture.
Step 4: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
🎂 Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
Add vanilla, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fluffy.
If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until spreadable.
🎉 Assemble & Decorate
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Repeat with remaining layers. Frost the sides and top completely.
Sprinkle extra pecans or coconut flakes on top for that signature Southern finish.
💌 Final Thoughts
This cake is rich, creamy, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s one of those desserts that brings people together—because nobody can resist a second slice!