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

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. 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).
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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