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Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake: A Simple Twist on a Classic Southern Favorite
Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s incredibly easy to make yet rich in flavor and elegance? The Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake is your new go-to recipe. This shortcut version of the classic Southern favorite combines the ease of a boxed cake mix with the traditional flavors of coconut, pecans, and cream cheese frosting—making it perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any day you’re craving something special.
Let’s dive into how to make this semi-homemade beauty that tastes like it came from a bakery.
🎂 What Is Italian Cream Cake?
Italian Cream Cake is a Southern dessert—not actually from Italy—known for its moist layers filled with shredded coconut and chopped pecans, topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Traditionally made from scratch, this version cuts down on prep time by starting with a boxed white or butter cake mix, while still delivering all the beloved flavor and texture.
🧁 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box white or butter cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup buttermilk (for added richness)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted, optional)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for extra depth
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream for smoother texture
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch or two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla (plus almond extract if using).
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
