Easy Italian Cream Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to bake a show-stopping treat without spending all day in the kitchen, this Easy Italian Cream Cake is just the answer. The cake delivers all the flavor you love in traditional Italian Cream Cake, but with an approachable twist that takes full advantage of a boxed cake mix. Layers of tender cake dotted with toasted pecans and sweet coconut are covered with the creamiest, dreamiest cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your friends and family, this beauty will quickly become your go-to recipe for easy elegance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Easy Italian Cream Cake is in its simplicity—these basic but crucial ingredients each bring their own magic, from moist crumb to rich flavor and wonderfully fluffy texture. Here’s what you’ll need, and why it matters:

• White cake mix (16.25 oz): The shortcut that ensures your layers bake up perfectly tender every single time, no fussing over complicated ratios.
• Eggs (3 large): Adds structure and richness, making your cake stand tall and taste homemade.
• Buttermilk (1 1/4 cups): Gives the cake that irresistible tang and helps create the moist crumb we all crave.
• Vegetable oil (1/4 cup): For added moisture, so your cake never risks feeling dry.
• Coconut flakes (1 cup): Brings in a gentle sweetness and lovely chew—you’ll find bits in every bite.
• Toasted chopped pecans (2/3 cup for cake, 1 cup for frosting): They add crunch and toasty, buttery flavor both inside and out.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The base for our ultra-smooth, tangy frosting.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Blends with cream cheese for a decadent, creamy result.
• Powdered sugar (16 oz): Sweetens the frosting to perfection and helps it whip up fluffy and light.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Rounds out all the flavors, lifting the cake and frosting alike.

How to Make Easy Italian Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Grab your favorite mixing bowl and combine the white cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer on medium speed—it only takes a couple of minutes to blend everything together into a thick, creamy batter. Next, gently fold in the coconut flakes and toasted pecans. You’ll see the texture go from plain to speckled with delicious, toothsome bites that set this Easy Italian Cream Cake apart.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Slide them into a preheated 350°F oven and let the magic happen for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a wooden pick or toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in their pans for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks and let them cool completely—patience is key for that beautiful finish.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the layers cool, it’s frosting time! Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is creamy and totally lump-free. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating as you go, until your frosting becomes light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and the cup of toasted pecans for an irresistible crunch and flavor boost.

Step 4: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Once your cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top, then carefully set the second layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides. For the most impressive texture and flavor, chill your Easy Italian Cream Cake for at least two hours before slicing—this helps the frosting set beautifully and makes cutting a breeze.

How to Serve Easy Italian Cream Cake

Garnishes

If you want to make the presentation pop, sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans and coconut flakes over the frosted cake. Edible flowers or even a drizzle of honey add instant wow factor for birthdays and holidays.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines with simple accompaniments. Serve Easy Italian Cream Cake alongside freshly brewed coffee, a cup of black tea, or even a tangy fruit salad. The flavors pair wonderfully with citrus or berries, cutting through the richness and offering refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, try baking the batter as cupcakes and swirling the frosting over each one. Or, cut the layers into squares and serve as mini cake bites—perfect for parties. A dusting of powdered sugar before serving is another easy but elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover slices with plastic wrap or store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake stays moist and delicious for up to five days, making it perfect for make-ahead entertaining or sneaky midnight snacking.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake (frosted or unfrosted) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. For best results, freeze the layers separately before frosting and assemble just before serving. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and your Easy Italian Cream Cake will taste as good as new.

Reheating

This cake truly shines served chilled or at cool room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer the cake a little softer, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving for the perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Italian Cream Cake without nuts?

Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer the cake without pecans, just skip them in both the batter and the frosting. You’ll still enjoy a deliciously moist and coconut-kissed treat.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

While traditional Easy Italian Cream Cake calls for white cake mix, you can experiment with yellow or even butter cake mixes for a slightly richer flavor. The base is flexible, so have fun with it if you like to put your own spin on things.

Do I need to toast the pecans?

Toasting the pecans is strongly recommended, as it enhances their flavor and crunch. Just spread on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring once—watch them closely to prevent burning.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes—this cake actually improves in flavor after a day in the fridge. Assemble and frost your Easy Italian Cream Cake, then chill overnight. The frosting sets perfectly and the flavors meld beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely! Starting with a boxed cake mix means even novice bakers can create a bakery-worthy Easy Italian Cream Cake with confidence. The step-by-step instructions keep things stress-free and fun.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Easy Italian Cream Cake is like giving your loved ones a big, sweet hug—the kind you want to share over and over. Whether it’s your first time making it or your dozenth, every bite is pure delight. Give it a try and be ready to bask in the compliments from your happy taste testers!

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