Introduction
This Easy Cake Mix Italian Cream Cake is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. With a boxed cake mix as the base,
you’ll get incredible flavor and a tender, moist crumb filled with coconut and pecans. The luscious cream cheese frosting
makes it irresistibly rich. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or gifting a homemade treat, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 (16.25-ounce) package white cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 (3.5-ounce) can flaked coconut
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 3 tablespoons rum (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
- 1 (16-ounce) package powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, and vegetable oil at medium speed with an electric mixer for 2 minutes. Stir in the flaked coconut and toasted pecans.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes. Remove from pans and cool completely.
- If desired, sprinkle each cooled layer evenly with rum and let stand for 10 minutes.
- To prepare frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla and toasted pecans.
- Spread frosting between layers, then frost the top and sides of the cake. Chill for 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cake can also be made ahead and chilled overnight to let the flavors develop even more.
Expert Tips
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the batter and frosting.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Ensure cakes are completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese frosting.
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