If you’re looking for a rich, moist, and elegant dessert, the Italian Cream Sheet Cake is a must-try. This cake combines the nutty crunch of pecans, the sweet chewiness of shredded coconut, and the tangy smoothness of cream cheese frosting into a single, indulgent bite. Unlike a traditional Italian Cream Cake, which is typically baked as a layer cake, the sheet cake version is easier to make and perfect for serving a crowd.

A Brief History of Italian Cream Cake

Despite its name, Italian Cream Cake is not actually from Italy. Instead, it is believed to have originated in the Southern United States, where it became a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. Some sources suggest that the cake’s name may have been influenced by Italian culinary techniques, such as the use of whipped egg whites to create a light and airy texture.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of cakes, you can check out this Wikipedia page on cakes, which explores various cake origins and traditions.

Why Italian Cream Sheet Cake is Special

This cake is a unique blend of textures and flavors, making it stand out from other sheet cakes. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Moist and tender crumb – Thanks to the combination of buttermilk, butter, and oil, this cake stays soft and flavorful. Read more about the role of buttermilk in baking to understand its benefits.
• Rich and nutty taste – The inclusion of pecans adds a delicious crunch, while coconut provides a subtle sweetness.
• Perfect for gatherings – Unlike a layered cake, a sheet cake is baked in a single pan, making it easy to transport and serve. If you’re new to sheet cakes, this Wikipedia guide to sheet cakes provides an overview of their advantages.
• Decadent frosting – The combination of cream cheese and powdered sugar creates a luscious topping that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or special event, this Italian Cream Sheet Cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients and Their Roles

To create the perfect Italian Cream Sheet Cake, understanding the role of each ingredient is essential. Every component contributes to the cake’s texture, flavor, and structure. Below is a breakdown of the ingredients and why they matter.

For the Cake

Flour and Leavening Agents

• All-purpose flour – Forms the base structure of the cake, providing stability and texture.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise by creating air pockets. Read more about the science behind baking soda in cakes.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the cake.

Fats and Sweeteners

• Unsalted butter & vegetable oil – The combination of these two fats creates a moist, tender crumb. While butter adds a rich flavor, oil ensures the cake remains soft even after refrigeration.
• Granulated sugar – Not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its moisture and tenderness. Sugar interacts with fats to create a lighter texture.

Eggs and Dairy

• Egg yolks – Add richness and structure to the batter.
• Egg whites (whipped to stiff peaks) – Help create a light and airy texture, preventing the cake from being too dense. If you’re curious about how whipped egg whites affect cakes, check out this guide on meringue.
• Buttermilk – Provides a slightly tangy flavor and reacts with the baking soda to enhance leavening. If you don’t have buttermilk, learn how to make a substitute with this buttermilk guide.

Flavor Enhancers

• Vanilla extract – Complements the richness of the cake and enhances all the flavors.
• Shredded coconut – Adds a sweet, chewy texture and a tropical flavor that makes this cake stand out.
• Chopped pecans – Provide a nutty crunch, balancing the soft texture of the cake. Lightly toasting them before adding to the batter enhances their flavor.

For the Frosting

• Cream cheese & unsalted butter – Form the creamy, tangy base of the frosting. This combination creates a smooth and spreadable texture.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting, ensuring it stays light and fluffy.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the frosting’s flavor and complements the richness of the cake.
• Chopped pecans (for garnish) – Add a decorative and flavorful crunch to the final cake.

Why These Ingredients Work Together

Each ingredient in this recipe has a specific function, whether it’s for structure, moisture, or flavor. When combined, they create a perfectly balanced, indulgent dessert.

If you’re looking for alternative ingredients, such as gluten-free flour or dairy substitutes, we’ll explore variations in a later section. Next, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to bring this delicious cake to life. 🍰

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Italian Cream Sheet Cake

Making an Italian Cream Sheet Cake may seem complex, but by following these simple steps, you’ll achieve a moist, fluffy, and flavorful cake every time.

---

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
• Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution when combined with wet ingredients.

Cream the Butter, Oil, and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
• Use a hand or stand mixer and beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, making the cake light and soft.

Incorporate the Egg Yolks and Vanilla Extract

• Separate the egg yolks from the egg whites.
• Add the 5 egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step helps the batter emulsify, creating a smooth and rich texture.
• Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

---

Step 2: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

• Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup buttermilk.
• Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition.
• Overmixing can develop too much gluten, resulting in a dense cake, so mix gently.

Fold in Coconut and Pecans

• Stir in:
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
• These add a wonderful texture and signature flavor to the cake. If you prefer a deeper nutty taste, toast the pecans beforehand. You can learn more about the benefits of toasting nuts in this Pinterest guide on baking tips.

---

Step 3: Whipping and Folding Egg Whites

Beat the Egg Whites Until Stiff Peaks Form

• In a separate clean, dry bowl, beat the 5 egg whites using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
• This means when you lift the beaters, the peaks should stand up straight without collapsing. This technique is similar to making meringue, which you can read about in this Wikipedia article on meringue.

Gently Fold the Egg Whites into the Batter

• Add the beaten egg whites to the cake batter in three additions, gently folding after each one.
• Folding (rather than stirring) helps retain the air, making the cake light and airy.

---

Step 4: Baking the Cake

Pour the Batter into the Prepared Pan

• Spread the batter evenly into the greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

Bake to Perfection

• Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Avoid opening the oven door too early, as this can cause the cake to deflate.

Cool the Cake Completely

• Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
• Transfer to a wire rack (if possible) and allow it to cool completely before frosting.

---

Step 5: Preparing the Frosting

Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter Until Smooth

• In a large bowl, beat together:
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• Mix until light and fluffy to create a smooth base for the frosting.

Add the Powdered Sugar and Vanilla Extract

• Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while continuing to mix.
• Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.

---

Step 6: Frosting the Cake and Adding the Final Touches

Spread the Frosting Evenly

• Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top using a spatula.

Garnish with Chopped Pecans

• Sprinkle ½ cup chopped pecans over the frosting for an elegant finishing touch.

---

Time to Serve!

• Slice into squares and enjoy!
• This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. For more cake storage tips, check out this Pinterest guide.

With these steps, you’ll have a perfectly moist, nutty, and delicious Italian Cream Sheet Cake ready to impress your guests! 🎂

Expert Tips for the Best Italian Cream Sheet Cake

Creating the perfect Italian Cream Sheet Cake requires more than just following the recipe. Here are some expert baking tips to ensure your cake turns out moist, fluffy, and full of flavor every time.

---

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

• Bringing butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature before baking ensures they mix evenly into the batter.
• Cold ingredients can cause the batter to separate, leading to an uneven texture.
• Learn more about how room temperature ingredients affect baking in this Pinterest guide on baking tips.

---

2. Properly Whip the Egg Whites

• Beating egg whites to stiff peaks creates an airy texture and helps the cake rise properly.
• Make sure your mixing bowl is clean and dry—even a small amount of oil or egg yolk can prevent the whites from whipping properly.
• If you want to understand the science behind whipped egg whites, check out this Wikipedia page on meringue.

---

3. Do Not Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake because it develops too much gluten in the flour.
• Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a soft and tender texture.

---

4. Toast the Pecans and Coconut for Extra Flavor

• Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor and makes them even crunchier.
• To toast, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
• Lightly toasting the coconut also brings out a deeper sweetness and aroma.

---

5. Let the Cake Cool Completely Before Frosting

• If the cake is even slightly warm, the cream cheese frosting can melt and become runny.
• Allow the cake to cool for at least 1 hour at room temperature before applying the frosting.

---

6. Adjust the Sweetness in the Frosting

• If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly and add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract for more depth of flavor.
• If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to soften it.

---

7. Store Properly for Maximum Freshness

• This cake stays fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days if covered properly.
• For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days—just let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to soften.
• Learn the best cake storage techniques in this Pinterest guide.

---

By following these expert tips, your Italian Cream Sheet Cake will turn out light, moist, and bursting with flavor every time! 🍰

Variations and Customization Options

The Italian Cream Sheet Cake is already delicious as-is, but you can easily customize it to fit different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Whether you want a gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free version, or just want to experiment with different ingredients, here are some great variations to try!

---

1. Gluten-Free Italian Cream Sheet Cake

If you’re avoiding gluten, you can still enjoy this cake by using a gluten-free flour blend.

• Substitute: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that contains xanthan gum for structure.
• Extra Tip: Gluten-free cakes tend to be drier, so adding an extra tablespoon of buttermilk can help keep it moist.
• For more gluten-free baking tips, check out this Pinterest guide on gluten-free cakes.

---

2. Dairy-Free Italian Cream Sheet Cake

For a dairy-free version, swap out the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives:

• Butter Substitute: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter.
• Buttermilk Substitute: Combine 1 cup of almond milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a dairy-free buttermilk alternative.
• Cream Cheese Substitute: Use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting, such as cashew-based or soy-based options.

---

3. Nut-Free Italian Cream Sheet Cake

If you or someone you’re baking for has a nut allergy, simply remove the pecans and replace them with an alternative ingredient:

• Crunchy Alternative: Try toasted sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels for a bit of crunch.
• Extra Flavor: Add chocolate chips or white chocolate shavings instead of nuts.

---

4. Cupcake Version for Individual Servings

Want to make Italian Cream Cupcakes instead? Here’s how:

• Adjust the Baking Time: Instead of a 9×13-inch sheet cake, divide the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
• Decorate Individually: Pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake and top with a pecan or coconut flakes.

---

5. Layer Cake Adaptation

If you prefer a layered version, bake the batter in two 9-inch round cake pans instead of a sheet pan.

• Baking Time: Reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Frosting Layers: Spread frosting between the layers for a decadent, bakery-style cake.
• Want more layer cake decorating ideas? Check out this Pinterest guide.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Proper storage and preparation techniques will keep your Italian Cream Sheet Cake fresh and delicious for days. Whether you’re making it ahead for an event or saving leftovers, follow these tips to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

---

1. Storing at Room Temperature

• If you plan to serve the cake within two days, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
• If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is recommended to prevent the cream cheese frosting from becoming too soft.

---

2. Refrigerating for Longer Freshness

• Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften.
• Refrigeration helps the flavors develop, making the cake even more delicious on the second day!

---

3. Freezing the Cake for Future Enjoyment

If you need to store the cake for more than a few days, freezing is the best option.

How to Freeze an Unfrosted Cake

• Let the cake cool completely before wrapping.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How to Freeze a Frosted Cake

• Place the cake in the freezer for 1 hour to allow the frosting to set.
• Once firm, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and foil or store in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Thaw Frozen Cake

• Transfer the cake to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
• If unfrosted, frost the cake after it has fully thawed.

For more expert cake storage tips, check out this Pinterest guide on storing cakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions people ask about Italian Cream Sheet Cake, along with expert answers to help you achieve the best results every time.

---

1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature (unfrosted) or in the refrigerator (frosted). If refrigerating, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

---

2. Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with:

• Walnuts – A great alternative with a similar buttery texture.
• Almonds – Adds a slightly sweeter, crunchier bite.
• Hazelnuts – Offers a deep, roasted flavor.

For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with chocolate chips.

---

3. How Do I Keep the Cake from Drying Out?

To ensure a moist and tender cake:

• Do not overbake—check for doneness at 30 minutes.
• Store the cake properly covered to prevent air exposure.
• Add an extra tablespoon of buttermilk if you live in a dry climate.

Learn more about how to keep cakes moist in this Pinterest baking guide.

---

4. Can I Use Sweetened Coconut Instead of Unsweetened?

Yes, but it will make the cake sweeter. If using sweetened coconut, reduce the granulated sugar by ¼ cup to balance the flavor.

---

5. What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute:

• Mix 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

For a full explanation of buttermilk’s role in baking, check out this Wikipedia guide on buttermilk.

---

6. Can I Make This Cake Without Eggs?

Yes! While eggs help create a light texture, you can replace them with:

• Flaxseed eggs – Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water (per egg).
• Applesauce – Use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for added moisture.

Print