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Sophia smith

Old Fashioned Italian Cream Cake Recipe

This Old Fashioned Italian Cream Cake is a nostalgic Southern classic with a rich, moist crumb, sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, and a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for special occasions, this cake brings back the charm of homemade baking with simple ingredients and heartfelt flavors.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: , Southern, American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Batter
  • 1 stick Oleo (or unsalted butter), softened
  • 1 cup Crisco (vegetable shortening)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 5 egg yolks, room temperature
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 small can of coconut (about 3.5–4 oz, sweetened, shredded)
  • 1 cup nuts, chopped (pecans are traditional)
  • 5 egg whites, beaten until stiff peaks form

Video

Notes

Required Kitchen Tools

When baking this Old Fashioned Italian Cream Cake, the right tools help you achieve bakery-style results without the stress. Here’s what I keep on hand:
  1. 3 Round Cake Pans (9-inch):  Even layers make for a beautiful presentation.
  2. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer:  For creaming butter, sugar, and incorporating egg whites perfectly.
  3. Mixing Bowls:  Separate bowls for dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and egg whites.
  4. Measuring Cups & Spoons:  Accuracy is key for baking success.
  5. Rubber Spatula:  Ideal for folding in delicate ingredients like whipped egg whites.
  6. Cooling Racks:  To cool cake layers evenly before frosting.
Having these ready before you start makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.