If you’re craving a moist, flavorful, and indulgent cake that’s both easy to make and packed with delicious flavors, Quick Italian Cream Cake is the answer! Known for its rich, nutty texture and creamy, tangy frosting, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself to a sweet treat, this cake is a fantastic choice that delivers all the delicious flavors of an Italian cream cake without the long prep time.

The cake is made with buttermilk for extra moisture, coconut for a delightful texture, and pecans for a nutty crunch. Topped with a rich, cream cheese frosting, this cake combines flavors that are both decadent and comforting. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and make a perfect dessert for any occasion!

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Ingredients (Makes 12-16 servings)

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour – 200g (1 ½ cups)
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
• Baking soda – ½ teaspoon
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon
• Granulated sugar – 200g (1 cup)
• Unsalted butter, softened – 115g (½ cup)
• Eggs – 3 large
• Buttermilk – 240ml (1 cup)
• Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
• Shredded coconut – 80g (1 cup)
• Chopped pecans – 80g (½ cup)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream cheese, softened – 225g (8 oz)
• Unsalted butter, softened – 115g (½ cup)
• Powdered sugar – 250g (2 cups)
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
• Pinch of salt – ¼ teaspoon

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

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2. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, and mix until everything is well combined. If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for about 15-20 minutes to firm up before frosting the cake.

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3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Once the cake is completely cooled, place it on a serving plate or cake stand.
2. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula.
3. If desired, sprinkle additional shredded coconut or chopped pecans over the top for decoration.
4. Slice and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

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4. Serve & Enjoy:

1. This cake is best served at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the perfect indulgent treat.
2. If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 Slice)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 16g
• Sugar: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 220mg

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

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Tips & Tricks for the Best Italian Cream Cake

✔ Buttermilk Substitute – If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
✔ Use Fresh Coconut – If possible, use fresh shredded coconut for a more authentic texture and flavor. You can find it in specialty stores or health food stores.
✔ Chill the Frosting – If the cream cheese frosting is too runny, chill it for a few minutes before spreading it on the cake. This will make it easier to work with.
✔ Make it a Layer Cake – If you prefer a layer cake, you can easily double the recipe and bake in two 9-inch round cake pans. Frost between the layers for an extra indulgent dessert.
✔ Custom Toppings – For extra flair, try adding candied pecans, a drizzle of honey, or even shredded chocolate to the top of the frosting.

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Serving Suggestions

🍓 With Fresh Fruit – Serve your Italian cream cake with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to add a burst of freshness.
🍦 With Ice Cream – For an extra indulgent treat, serve a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut ice cream.
☕ With Coffee or Tea – Pair a slice of cake with your favorite coffee or tea for a relaxing afternoon snack.
🎉 For Special Occasions – This cake is perfect for birthday celebrations, holidays, or any time you want to treat your family and friends to something special.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick & Easy – Unlike traditional Italian cream cakes, this recipe is designed for a quick preparation time with no complicated steps.
✅ Moist & Flavorful – The buttermilk, coconut, and pecans create a perfectly moist, tender cake that’s bursting with flavor.
✅ Creamy Frosting – The cream cheese frosting is the ideal complement to the cake, adding a rich and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a weekday treat, this cake will quickly become a family favorite.