Italian Cream Cheese Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (if needed for consistency)
- Shredded coconut (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Add the granulated sugar and beat until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture in alternating additions with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped nuts (if using).
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and, if needed, a tablespoon or two of milk to reach the desired frosting consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of one cake layer.
- Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the frosted cake for garnish.
- Slice and enjoy this rich, moist, and flavorful cake!
This Italian Cream Cheese Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.