Are you ready to treat yourself to a slice of luscious, creamy goodness? An Italian Cream Sheet Cake is just what you need! This delightful dessert is a crowd-pleaser, boasting a moist, rich texture with a balance of sweet and nutty flavors. Made with buttermilk, coconut, and walnuts, this cake delivers a slice of heaven that will leave you reaching for seconds. Fun fact: The oris of this beloved dessert can be traced back to the Southern states, where its unique blend of ingredients has earned it a special place at family gatherings and potlucks!
What makes Italian Cream Sheet Cake stand out is its simplicity in preparation — perfect for anyone looking to whip up a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. With little fuss, you can create a sensational dessert that rivals those from your favorite bakery. If you love comforting classics like a good old-fashioned Southern pecan pie, you’ll surely enjoy this cake. Trust me, the combination of flavors and textures will make your taste buds dance! So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
What is Italian Cream Sheet Cake?
Italian Cream Sheet Cake? Oh, what a mouthful! It sounds like something that a fancy chef in a tuxedo would whip up. But fear not! This divine cake is surprisingly approachable for home bakers. It’s named for its Italian roots and features a marvelous medley of textures and flavors that will take your taste buds on an adventure. But why “sheet cake”, you might wonder? Well, this means it can easily be baked in a sheet pan, which makes it perfect for parties and gatherings. After all, who would want to spend hours slaving over layer cakes when you could have delicious cake in a fraction of the time? Remember, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” So why not make a few hearts happy with an Italian Cream Sheet Cake? Go ahead and give it a try!
Why You’ll Love This Italian Cream Sheet Cake
This Italian Cream Sheet Cake is a show-stopper for several reasons. First and foremost, the cake’s creamy texture and delightful flavor profile are simply irresistible. The combination of coconut and walnuts provides a unique crunch that elevates this dessert to another level. Additionally, the cost-saving benefits of making this cake at home can’t be overstated. You’ll save money compared to purchasing a gourmet cake, and best of all, you’ll know exactly what goes into your dish!
The flavorful toppings — like the cream cheese frosting that adds a luscious finish — make this cake incredibly special. Imae a slice of cake paired with your favorite cup of coffee or tea; it’s a match made in heaven! Plus, if you enjoy other delectable desserts like carrot cake, you will love the exciting flavors of this cake. Don’t wait another minute; roll up your sleeves and try making this memorable dessert yourself. Your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Italian Cream Sheet Cake
Quick Overview
Italian Cream Sheet Cake is not only easy to make but also a delicious indulgence that can brighten anyone’s day. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a baking time of 30 to 35 minutes, you can have this delightful dessert ready to impress in no time. The standout features are the moist cake, fabulous cream cheese frosting, and the toasted coconut and walnuts that make each bite a unique experience.
Key Ingredients for Italian Cream Sheet Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted)
For the frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a sheet pan (approx. 18×13 inches) with cooking spray or butter.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the sugars and butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with both sugars (granulated and brown) until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Be and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the goodies: Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped walnuts, making sure they are evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour and bake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the frosting: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until combined and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Optional: sprinkle extra coconut and walnuts on top for garnish.
What to Serve Italian Cream Sheet Cake With
This Italian Cream Sheet Cake delivers on its own, but why not elevate the experience by serving it alongside a few complementary dishes? Consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A fresh fruit salad, featuring berries or citrus, can provide a refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness. Additionally, a cup of hot coffee or tea is the perfect beverage to round out your dessert experience, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Italian Cream Sheet Cake
To ensure you create the perfect Italian Cream Sheet Cake, keep these valuable tips in mind:
- Ingredient temperature: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a perfectly smooth frosting.
- Carry out the toasting: Toast your walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the cake.
- Don’t skip the cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese frosting.
Avoid common pitfalls, like overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake. Follow these helpful hints, and you’re sure to impress your family and friends with your baking skills!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover Italian Cream Sheet Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cake in the fridge overnight; you can even give it a quick pop in the microwave for a warm slice. Enjoy the deliciousness of your Italian Cream Sheet Cake again and again!
In conclusion, you now have everything you need to bake an Italian Cream Sheet Cake that will wow your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. With its delightful flavors, easy preparation, and budget-friendly appeal, this cake is truly a culinary treasure. Happy baking!
Italian Cream Sheet Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a sheet pan (approx. 18x13 inches) with cooking spray or butter.
- In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with both sugars (granulated and brown) until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Be and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped walnuts, making sure they are evenly distributed in the batter.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until combined and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Optional: sprinkle extra coconut and walnuts on top for garnish.
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