If you’re looking for an easy dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery, this Simple Italian Cream Cake is an excellent choice. By starting with a boxed cake mix and adding a few extra ingredients, you can create a soft, moist cake with rich flavor and a homemade texture. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch, while sweetened shredded coconut brings a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting. Finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting, this cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you want to serve a crowd-pleasing dessert. Best of all, it’s simple enough for beginner bakers while delivering impressive results every time.
To prepare the cake, gather one box of white or yellow cake mix, one cup of buttermilk (or one cup of milk mixed with one tablespoon of vinegar), three large eggs, one-half cup of vegetable oil, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, one cup of chopped pecans or walnuts, and one cup of sweetened shredded coconut. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and lightly flour either a 9×13-inch baking pan or two to three round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, buttermilk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until the batter becomes smooth and well blended. Gently fold in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan or divide it evenly among the cake pans and bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting.
For the cream cheese frosting, you’ll need one package (8 ounces or 225 grams) of softened cream cheese, one-half cup of softened butter, four cups of powdered sugar, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one to two tablespoons of milk if needed. Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture becomes smooth, light, and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition to prevent lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract and continue mixing until the frosting is fluffy. If the frosting seems too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Taking your time while mixing helps create a light frosting that spreads evenly and complements the rich cake layers without becoming overly dense.