This Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake is a quick and easy version of the classic Italian Cream Cake, made with a boxed cake mix. It’s loaded with coconut, pecans, and a rich cream cheese frosting for an indulgent, moist, and flavorful dessert!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box white or vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz) 🌾
- 1 cup buttermilk 🥛
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil 🛢️
- 4 large eggs 🥚
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut 🥥
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans 🥜
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 4 cups powdered sugar 🍬
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish) 🥜
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for garnish) 🥥
📝 Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Mix the cake ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until smooth.
- Add the coconut and pecans:
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter:
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be sure to rotate the pans halfway through for even baking.
- Cool the cakes:
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat the cream cheese and butter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract and beat on medium speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Frost the first layer:
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Add the second layer:
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Garnish:
- Press the chopped pecans and shredded coconut around the sides and top of the cake for a beautiful garnish.
6. Serve:
- Slice and enjoy:
- Slice the cake and serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect dessert!
⏱️ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour
🍽️ Servings: 12 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal per slice
This Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake gives you all the delicious flavors of a classic Italian cream cake with a time-saving twist. It’s rich, moist, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting—perfect for any special occasion! 🍰🥥🥜