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Italian Cream Sheet Cake: A Decadent Southern Classic

Italian Cream Sheet Cake

This Italian Cream Sheet Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that combines the richness of coconut and nuts with a creamy, tangy frosting. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or any special occasion, this cake is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):

  • Additional shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper or lightly coat with non-stick spray.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in egg yolks one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
  • Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
  • Stir in shredded coconut and chopped nuts.

3. Whip Egg Whites

  • In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  • Gently fold into the batter until fully incorporated.

4. Bake the Cake

  • Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cool completely before frosting.

5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla extract.

6. Frost & Serve

  • Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  • Garnish with extra coconut and nuts if desired.
  • Slice and enjoy!

Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Notes

✔ Room temperature ingredients – Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are softened for a smooth batter and frosting.
✔ Don’t overmix – Fold egg whites gently to keep the cake light and fluffy.
✔ Toast the nuts – For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans or walnuts before adding them to the batter.
✔ Cool completely – Let the cake cool before frosting to prevent melting.

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