Delicious Italian Cream Cake Recipe | Easy & Irresistible Dessert!

Table of Contents: Delicious Italian Cream Cake

Delicious Italian Cream Cake

There’s a kind of magic that happens when rich, buttery cake meets tangy cream cheese frosting and a hint of tropical coconut—especially when it’s wrapped in the warm embrace of Southern hospitality and Italian tradition. If you’re looking for an elegant yet easy dessert that feels like a celebration on a plate, this Delicious Italian Cream Cake is your golden ticket. Perfect for holidays, Sunday family dinners, or just treating yourself on a quiet weekday, this Classic Italian cream cake combines the best of both worlds: the simplicity of a boxed mix elevated with fresh, wholesome ingredients, and a luxurious, nut-studded coconut pecan cake crumb that melts in your mouth.

This Southern Italian cream cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a story. A story of heritage, of Sunday gatherings around the table, and of that one slice everyone fights over. The cake itself is incredibly moist, thanks to the buttermilk and oil, while the shredded coconut and chopped pecans add a delightful texture contrast. It’s sweet, but not cloying, and the creamy, fluffy frosting ties it all together in true Southern confection style. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, Easter, or a potluck with friends, this Coconut pecan cake will steal the show every single time.

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Alternate Names & Variations

This beloved dessert goes by many names, depending on where your family hails from. You might hear it called a Southern Italian cream cake, especially in the Deep South, where Italian-American influences blend with regional tastes. Some refer to it as a Coconut pecan cake, spotlighting its star ingredients. Variations include adding maraschino cherries for extra color, folding in crushed pineapple for moisture (common in Hawaiian-style versions), or even layering in praline swirls for a decadent twist. No matter the name, the heart of this recipe—creamy, nutty, coconut-rich—remains unchanged. If you’re searching for “classic coconut cream cake with cream cheese frosting” or “Italian cream cake without nuts,” this recipe can easily adapt to your taste or dietary needs.

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Ingredients: Delicious Italian Cream Cake

For the Cake:

• – 1 box high-quality white cake mix (preferably made with egg whites for fluffiness)
• – 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (Madagascar or Tahitian for best flavor)
• – 1 ¼ cups fresh buttermilk, at room temperature (creates a tender crumb)
• – 3 large farm-fresh eggs, at room temperature (ensures even rising)
• – ¼ cup neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable)
• – 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut, toasted for deeper flavor (optional but recommended)
• – ¾ cup finely chopped pecans, lightly toasted (adds crunch and nutty depth)

For the Frosting:

• – 4 cups sifted powdered sugar (prevents grittiness)
• – 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to perfection (never substitute low-fat)
• – 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• – 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened but cool to the touch (adds richness and structure)

> Pro tip: Toast the coconut and pecans in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to enhance their natural oils and depth—this small step makes your Classic Italian cream cake truly unforgettable.

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Delicious Italian Cream Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper. This ensures easy release and prevents breaking when slicing layers for your Southern Italian cream cake.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, buttermilk, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium and beat for 2 minutes, scraping the bowl occasionally. This ensures all ingredients are fully incorporated and creates a silky batter.

3. Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans using a spatula. Avoid overmixing—just until evenly distributed. Toasting these ingredients ahead of time enhances the overall flavor profile.

4. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Tap each pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.

5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks. Cool completely (at least 1 hour) before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding.

6. For the frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together on medium-low until smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

7. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, starting on low to avoid a powdery mess. Once incorporated, increase speed to medium-high and beat for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. If too thick, add a teaspoon of milk. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.

8. Assemble the cake: Place one layer on a cake stand or plate. Frost the top with about ¾ cup of frosting. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the third and frost the entire cake. Decorate with extra toasted coconut and pecan halves on top for a luxurious finish.

9. Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting. This makes slicing neat and enhances the texture.

> Shortcut Tip: Use an ice cream scoop to portion frosting equally between layers. Or, for a less sweet version, pipe a decorative edge around each layer and fill with fresh berries.

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Recipe Card Block: Delicious Italian Cream Cake (Quick Reference)

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10–12 generous slices
Approximate calories: 580 per slice (based on standard serving)

This Delicious Italian Cream Cake serves 4 comfortably as a rich dessert, but realistically shines when shared—perfect for a family of six or a dinner party of eight with leftovers to enjoy the next day. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight treat or a holiday centerpiece, it’s designed to impress with minimal effort.

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Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

What makes this Classic Italian cream cake so special isn’t just the flavor—it’s the balance. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang, the oil keeps the crumb unbelievably moist, and the toasted coconut and pecans deliver a textural contrast that makes each bite luxurious. Using a boxed mix as a shortcut might seem counter to “homemade baking,” but when enhanced with quality ingredients like real vanilla, cream cheese, and buttermilk, it becomes an easy comfort food for family dinners that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

The frosting is the true showstopper: rich Cream cheese buttercream made with full-fat ingredients yields a stable, spreadable, and velvety texture. Unlike ganache or whipped cream frostings, this one holds up well at room temperature (up to one day), making it ideal for transport to picnics or potlucks. For best results, chill your mixer bowl and beaters before whipping the frosting—it helps stabilize air bubbles and prevents softening too quickly.

And yes—this Southern Italian cream cake absolutely benefits from nuts. They add not just crunch, but earthy depth that balances the sweetness of the coconut and frosting. If you’re allergic, you can omit them (see FAQs), but we recommend keeping the toasted coconut as the textural hero.

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store your Delicious Italian Cream Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration to stay fresh. Place in an airtight cake carrier or under a domed container to prevent drying out and odor absorption.

For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cake layers individually wrapped in plastic, then aluminum foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting. You can also freeze a frosted slice in an airtight container—wrap well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw for 1–2 hours before serving.

This Coconut pecan cake does not reheat well in the microwave, as the frosting will melt and the cake may steam. Instead, bring to room temperature for best texture. For parties, consider making and assembling it the day before—just remember to keep it chilled.

> Pro Tip: Line your cake board with parchment before frosting to make cleanup easy, especially when transporting your Classic Italian cream cake to events.

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People Also Ask: Delicious Italian Cream Cake

How do you make a delicious Italian cream cake?

To make a Delicious Italian Cream Cake, start with a white cake mix enriched with buttermilk, eggs, oil, and vanilla for maximum moisture and flavor. Fold in shredded coconut and toasted pecans for texture and depth. Bake in three 8-inch pans, cool completely, then layer with a creamy cream cheese buttercream—a blend of real butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. The key is gentle mixing, chilling between layers, and proper temperature control. Even with a boxed base, this Southern Italian cream cake taste entirely homemade and is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or a special weeknight treat. It’s simple, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser.

What makes Italian cream cake unique?

What sets Italian cream cake apart is its sophisticated balance of textures and flavors. Unlike traditional white or chocolate cakes, it features toasted coconut and pecans, which add a nutty richness and tropical flair. The crumb is deeply moist thanks to buttermilk, and the Cream cheese buttercream frosting ties it all together with a tangy sweetness. Originating in Southern and Italian-American kitchens, this Classic Italian cream cake combines European richness with Southern comfort. The inclusion of cream cheese frosting—instead of vanilla or chocolate—is what truly distinguishes it from similar coconut or nut-based cakes. It’s indulgent, deeply satisfying, and has a story in every bite.

What frosting goes with Italian cream cake?

The ideal frosting for an Italian cream cake is a rich, buttery cream cheese frosting made with full-fat cream cheese, unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and sifted powdered sugar. Unlike lighter frostings, this combination holds up well, slices cleanly, and provides the perfect contrast to the sweet-tropical crumb. The acidity in cream cheese cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the coconut and pecans. While some bakers experiment with whipped cream or German buttercream, the traditional Southern Italian cream cake relies on this thick, stable, and luscious frosting. It’s not just a topping—it’s a core part of the experience, turning this dessert from great to unforgettable.

Can you add nuts to Italian cream cake?

Absolutely—adding nuts is a fundamental part of Italian cream cake. Traditionally, chopped pecans are used, contributing earthy crunch and a buttery richness that enhances the coconut’s sweetness. Whether you toast them beforehand or add them raw, the nuts elevate the texture and depth. While some variations omit nuts due to allergies, they’re a celebrated ingredient in the authentic Classic Italian cream cake. Alternatives like toasted walnuts or almonds can be used, but pecans remain the gold standard—especially in Southern versions. For nut-free options, increase the coconut slightly or add toasted breadcrumbs for texture. But for the full Coconut pecan cake experience? Keep those nuts in.

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Conclusion: Delicious Italian Cream Cake

If you’ve been searching for that one cake that feels festive, luxurious, and completely homemade—without spending hours in the kitchen—your search ends here. This Delicious Italian Cream Cake is everything a classic dessert should be: rich, creamy, nutty, and just sweet enough. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving dinner, a birthday bash, or a quiet night with coffee, it brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

We’d love to hear how your version turns out! Did you toast the nuts? Add cherries? Try a new nut substitute? Share your photos, tips, and family reactions in the comments below. Or tag us on social media—we’re always baking inspiration!

And remember: perfection isn’t the goal. Joy is. So preheat your oven, bring out the coconut, and bake something beautiful.

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