Homemade Italian Cream Cake Recipe – Moist, Nutty & Delicious

If you’re looking for a decadent, bakery-style dessert that’s perfect for celebrations, this Homemade Italian Cream Cake is your answer. It’s rich, moist, and full of texture from sweet shredded coconut and chopped pecans. The luscious cream cheese frosting makes every bite indulgent and irresistible.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

• Cooling Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (approx.)

• Servings: 10–12 slices

• Method: Baking (Oven)

• Course: Dessert

• Cuisine: Southern / Italian-American

• • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze slices individually or whole for up to 2 months.

    Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

    Ingredients

    For the Cake:

    • 1 box of white cake mix

    • 3 large eggs

    • 1 tsp vanilla extract

    • ¼ cup vegetable oil

    • 1 ¼ cup buttermilk

    • ¾ cup chopped pecans

    • 1 ½ cup shredded coconut

    For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

    • 2 (8 oz) packs of cream cheese, softened

    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

    • 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)

    • 2 tsp vanilla extract

     Instructions – Step-by-Step

     Step 1: Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

     Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

    In a large mixing bowl, combine:

    • 1 box white cake mix

    • 3 eggs

    • 1 tsp vanilla extract

    • ¼ cup vegetable oil

    • 1 ¼ cup buttermilk

    Use an electric mixer to beat until the batter is smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).

     Step 3: Fold in Coconut & Pecans

    Gently fold in:

    • 1 ½ cups shredded coconut

    • ¾ cup chopped pecans

    Stir just until evenly combined.

     Step 4: Divide and Bake

    Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

     Step 5: Cool the Cakes

    Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then carefully remove them and place on a wire rack to cool completely—do not frost while warm.

     Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting Step 6: Beat the Frosting

    In a large bowl, combine:

    • 2 softened cream cheese packs

    • 1 cup softened butter

    • 4 cups powdered sugar

    • 2 tsp vanilla extract

    Use a mixer to beat until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and fluffy.

     Step 7: Assemble the Cake

    1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

    2. Spread a thick, even layer of cream cheese frosting on top.

    3. Add the second cake layer.

    4. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

    Optionally, garnish with extra chopped pecans or a sprinkle of coconut on top for presentation.

     Expert Tips for Best Results

    • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better blending.

    • Toasted Pecans: For deeper flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes before adding them.

    • Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the frosted cake for at least 30 minutes to help it set and slice cleanly.

     Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I use homemade cake mix?

    Yes! Substitute the box mix with your favorite homemade white or vanilla cake recipe. Just ensure the quantity yields two 9-inch layers.

    Can I freeze Italian Cream Cake?

    Absolutely. Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting.

    Can I make this cake gluten-free?

    Use a gluten-free white cake mix and check that all other ingredients (like shredded coconut) are gluten-free labeled.

     Storage Instructions

     Final Thoughts

  This Easy Italian Cream Cake is a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. With its creamy frosting, nutty texture, and perfect balance of sweetness, it’s ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Try it once, and it just might become your go-to celebration cake!