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CAKE MIX ITALIAN CREAM CAKE

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or two 9-inch pans.
  2. Mix the cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until well blended.
  3. Add the extras: Fold in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and sour cream (if using) to the batter, mixing until just combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Divide the batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
  2. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes (for 8-inch pans) or 30-35 minutes (for 9-inch pans), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. Beat the cream cheese and butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
  3. Flavor the frosting: Stir in the vanilla extract and beat the frosting on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Frost the layers: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
  2. Frost the outside: Once all layers are stacked, frost the sides and top of the cake. Make sure to spread the frosting evenly.
  3. Garnish: Press the chopped pecans around the sides of the cake and sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake

  • Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans brings out their natural flavor and adds a nice crunch to the cake. Simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
  • Use buttermilk: Replacing the water called for on the cake mix with buttermilk adds richness and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.
  • Add sour cream for extra moisture: While optional, the sour cream helps keep the cake extra moist and tender.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake captures the essence of a traditional Italian Cream Cake, with its rich texture and the classic combination of coconut and pecans, but simplifies the process by using a cake mix as the base. The buttermilk and sour cream boost the cake’s moisture and flavor, making it hard to tell it started with a boxed mix. Plus, the homemade cream cheese frosting adds a layer of tangy sweetness that elevates the entire dessert.

Delicious Variations

  • Coconut Cream Italian Cake: For even more coconut flavor, use coconut milk instead of buttermilk and add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the batter.
  • Chocolate Italian Cream Cake: Mix in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry cake mix for a chocolate twist on this classic.
  • Pineapple Italian Cream Cake: Add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) to the batter for a fruity version of the cake.

Pairing Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with:

  • Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cake and cream cheese frosting.
  • Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, to add a refreshing balance to the richness.
  • Sparkling Wine: A glass of Prosecco or Champagne is perfect for celebrations and adds a touch of elegance to the dessert.

Storage and Freezing

  • Refrigerate: Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting makes it necessary to keep the cake chilled.
  • Freeze: You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

The Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake is an easy yet impressive dessert that delivers all the flavors of the traditional version with a fraction of the effort. Its moist layers, combined with the luscious cream cheese frosting and nutty coconut-pecan filling, create a cake that’s worthy of any special occasion. The simple preparation makes it accessible for beginner bakers, while the taste will impress even the most experienced cake connoisseurs.

Conclusion

If you love Italian Cream Cake but want a more straightforward recipe, this Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake is your solution. It delivers the beloved flavors and texture of the classic dessert, but with a shortcut that makes baking it a breeze. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake is sure to become a favorite treat for your family and friends.

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