Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser! The combination of soft cake layers with coconut and pecans makes for a wonderful texture, while the rich frosting brings it all together with a creamy finish. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just as a special dessert to enjoy with your family. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cake flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In another bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until smooth and combined.
Gently fold in the coconut flakes and toasted pecans into the batter.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and 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 transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Once the cake layers have cooled, frost them generously with the whipped cream frosting.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 12 slices
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add Fruit: For a fresh twist, you can add fruit like strawberries or raspberries on top of the frosting for added flavor and color.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace the whipped cream frosting with a rich cream cheese frosting for a tangy alternative.
Nuts: If you prefer other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, you can easily swap out the pecans for a different crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, you can microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for cake flour, but the texture may be a bit denser. For best results, sift the all-purpose flour before using it.

2. Can I make this cake without buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with a mixture of regular milk and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

3. Can I use sweetened coconut flakes?

You can use sweetened coconut flakes, but the cake will be a little sweeter than intended. You may want to reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them at room temperature for 1-2 days. Just frost the cake right before serving.

5. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Frost when ready to serve.

6. How can I make this cake more coconut-forward?

You can add extra coconut flakes to the batter or even toast some coconut to sprinkle on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.

7. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes! You can use a buttercream frosting or a simple glaze if you prefer something different than whipped cream.

8. How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick is wet, continue baking for a few more minutes.

9. Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in larger cake pans. Just adjust the baking time accordingly and check for doneness.

10. How should I serve this cake?

This cake is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Quick Italian Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the perfect flavors of coconut, pecans, and creamy frosting. It’s the ideal choice for any celebration or as a special treat to enjoy any day of the week. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a festive occasion, this cake is sure to become a favorite!

Quick Italian Cream Cake