Italian Cream Sheet Cake
An Irresistible Delight: Italian Cream Sheet Cake
When it comes to feeding a crowd, finding the perfect dessert can seem daunting. However, with the right recipe up your sleeve, it can be a breeze. This Italian Cream Sheet Cake is one of those reliable recipes that never fails. Baked in a standard jelly roll pan, it serves up to 20 people effortlessly. While the “Italian” in the name is a mystery, the addition of coconut and pecans elevates this cake to sheer perfection.
To ensure maximum moisture, we incorporate a cup of butter, five eggs, and buttermilk. The coconut and pecans, both in the cake and atop the frosting, add a burst of fresh flavor that keeps you craving for more. Feel free to adjust the coconut and pecans to your liking—use them in the cake, as a garnish, or pick just one to feature. This Italian Cream Cake is yours to customize!
If you’re hosting family and feeling the pressure of serving a crowd, this dessert is your solution. The thin slices of sheet cake also mean you can indulge in seconds or sample another dessert without guilt. It’s a win-win!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly serves a large crowd.
- Moist and flavorful with coconut and pecans.
- Customizable to suit your taste.
- Simple to prepare with a delightful outcome every time.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Jelly roll baking sheet
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl or mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Toothpick
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 5 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon shredded coconut
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
Icing:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a jelly roll baking sheet with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then set aside.
- In a large bowl or mixer, cream together the butter and sugar for 4-5 minutes until fluffy and light in color.
- Add the eggs to the mixture and beat until fully incorporated, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the cake mix, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just incorporated.
- Fold in the coconut and pecans, then pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- To make the frosting, cream together the butter and cream cheese in a large bowl or mixer for 3-4 minutes until fluffy.
- Gradually add in powdered sugar and salt, mixing until combined. Then beat in the vanilla extract and shredded coconut.
- Frost the cooled cake and top with chopped pecans. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a richer flavor, try toasting the pecans before adding them to the cake and frosting. You can also experiment by adding a hint of almond extract to the batter for a different twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This cake is a delightful treat, so enjoy it in moderation! Each serving is packed with flavor and texture, thanks to the coconut and pecans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it on the day of serving.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I use a different type of nut? Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes for pecans.
Conclusion
We hope this Italian Cream Sheet Cake becomes a staple in your dessert repertoire. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your experiences and any unique twists you’ve added to the recipe. Enjoy baking and savor every slice!