Quick Italian Cream Cake

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Quick Italian Cream Cake

Introduction

Quick Italian Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines layers of moist, fluffy cake with a creamy, rich frosting. This version simplifies the traditional recipe, making it faster to prepare while maintaining the classic flavors of coconut, pecans, and cream cheese. It’s a showstopper at any gathering, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual celebrations.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Italian Cream Cake, despite its name, is not directly from Italy but is a Southern American classic. Its roots are steeped in the American South, where decadent cakes often become centerpiece desserts. The cake’s Italian influence comes from its use of coconut and nuts, reminiscent of Italian pastry flavors. This cake represents a fusion of textures and flavors, embodying Southern hospitality and Italian-inspired decadence.

Ingredients Quantity

Cake:

  • All-purpose flour: 2 cups
  • Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Granulated sugar: 1 3/4 cups
  • Butter: 1/2 cup, softened
  • Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
  • Eggs: 5 large, separated
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Sweetened shredded coconut: 1 cup
  • Chopped pecans: 1 cup

Frosting:

  • Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened
  • Butter: 1/2 cup, softened
  • Powdered sugar: 4 cups
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Chopped pecans (for garnish): 1/2 cup
  • Sweetened shredded coconut (for garnish): 1/4 cup

Optional Additions

  • Almond extract: Add 1/4 teaspoon for a nuttier flavor in the frosting.
  • Toasted pecans: Toast the pecans for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
  • Coconut flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top for texture.
  • Pineapple chunks: Fold in crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.

Tips for Success

  1. Use room-temperature ingredients: This ensures smoother mixing and better texture.
  2. Whip egg whites properly: Beat egg whites to stiff peaks before folding into the batter for a light, airy cake.
  3. Do not overmix: Gently fold in the egg whites to avoid deflating the batter.
  4. Toast garnishes: Toast the coconut and pecans to elevate their flavor.
  5. Chill the cake: Allow the cake to chill after frosting to set the flavors and make slicing easier.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, cream butter, sugar, and oil until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, mixing well.
  • Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Stir in vanilla, coconut, and pecans.

2. Whip Egg Whites:

  • In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter.

3. Bake:

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Frosting:

  • Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.

5. Assemble the Cake:

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  • Sprinkle the cake with chopped pecans and coconut. Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving.

Description

This Quick Italian Cream Cake is a masterpiece of textures and flavors. The layers are moist and tender, filled with the subtle sweetness of coconut and the crunch of pecans. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness perfectly. Garnished with toasted pecans and coconut, it’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~450
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fiber: 2g

Conclusion

Quick Italian Cream Cake is a dessert that delivers elegance and comfort in every bite. It’s a simplified version of the classic recipe, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, this cake is sure to impress.

Recommendation

Serve this cake with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful pairing. To save time, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble it before serving.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce and use reduced-fat cream cheese in the frosting. You can also reduce the sugar slightly without compromising the flavor. This way, you can enjoy a slice guilt-free while savoring the classic taste.

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