Italian Cream Cheese Cake

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

1. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

1. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Incorporate Coconut and Nuts:

• Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped nuts.

1. Bake the Cake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool the Cakes:

• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Prepare the Frosting:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup softened butter until creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and fluffy.

1. Assemble and Frost:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
2. Optional Garnish:
   • Garnish the cake with additional shredded coconut and chopped nuts, if desired.
3. Chill and Serve:
   • Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to set the frosting.

Enjoy!

This Italian Cream Cheese Cake is a delicious and elegant dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat. Let me know if you need any more help or variations on this recipe! 🍰🎂