If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, moist, and full of flavor, this Italian Cream Sheet Cake is the perfect treat! This cake is soft and tender with a hint of coconut and crunchy pecans, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Although its name suggests Italian origins, this cake is actually a Southern favorite that has been passed down through generations. It’s a great dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, birthdays, or holidays—a true crowd-pleaser that always leaves everyone wanting more!
Ingredients (Serves 12–15)
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour – 250g (2 cups)
- Granulated sugar – 300g (1 ½ cups)
- Unsalted butter, softened – 170g (¾ cup)
- Eggs, separated – 5 large
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Whole milk or buttermilk – 240ml (1 cup)
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
- Sweetened shredded coconut – 100g (1 cup)
- Chopped pecans – 100g (1 cup)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream cheese, softened – 225g (8 oz)
- Unsalted butter, softened – 115g (½ cup)
- Powdered sugar – 400g (3 ½ cups)
- Vanilla extract – 1 ½ teaspoons
- Milk or heavy cream – 2 tablespoons
- Chopped pecans (for topping) – 50g (½ cup)
- Shredded coconut (for topping, optional) – 30g (¼ cup)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
2. Whip the Egg Whites
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter, being careful not to deflate them.
3. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla extract and milk or heavy cream to reach the desired consistency.
5. Assemble the Cake
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle the top with chopped pecans and shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- Slice and serve!
Nutrition Information (Per Slice – 15 Servings)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 24g
- Sugar: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Tips & Tricks for the Best Italian Cream Sheet Cake
✔ Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth batter and creamy frosting.
✔ Whip Egg Whites Separately – Folding in stiff egg whites makes the cake extra light and fluffy.
✔ Toast the Pecans – Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to bring out their nutty flavor.
✔ Use Buttermilk for Extra Moisture – Buttermilk makes the cake soft and tender. If you don’t have any, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
✔ Chill Before Serving – Let the cake chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions
???? With Coffee or Tea – The perfect afternoon treat!
???? With Ice Cream – Serve warm slices with vanilla or coconut ice cream for extra indulgence.
???? With Fresh Berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries pair beautifully with the rich flavors.
???? For Special Occasions – A great choice for birthdays, holidays, and potlucks!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Classic & Timeless – A beloved Southern dessert that never goes out of style.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple steps with no fancy equipment needed.
✅ Moist & Flavorful – Packed with coconut, pecans, and a rich cream cheese frosting.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, holidays, and celebrations.
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