Italian Cream Bundt Cake

There’s something truly magical about a Bundt cake, especially one that evokes the warmth and charm of Italian baking traditions. The Italian Cream Bundt Cake is an embodiment of this magic, with its rich flavors and delightful texture that simply melts in your mouth. This cake is packed with sweetened coconut, crunchy pecans, and a hint of almond, making it the ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging yourself, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Italian Cream Bundt Cake apart is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The combination of pecans and shredded coconut creates a delightful crunch, while the moistness of the cake ensures each bite is a heavenly experience. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the cake’s flavors. With easy-to-follow instructions and accessible ingredients, this recipe is a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Shopping List

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 to 4 tablespoons milk

Equipment at a Glance

• Bundt pan – for baking the cake in its signature shape.
• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – for easy mixing of batter and frosting.
• Sifter – to ensure your confectioners’ sugar is lump-free for a smooth frosting.
• Rubber spatula – for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl.

Build Italian Cream Bundt Cake Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your Bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add in the 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract until combined.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients with Buttermilk

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Fold in Coconut and Pecans

Gently fold in the 1 1/2 cups of shredded sweetened coconut and 1 cup of chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of sifted confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 3 to 4 tablespoons of milk, beating until you reach your desired frosting consistency.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful presentation.

Make It Your Way

• For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the batter or use chocolate frosting.
• Incorporate citrus zest, like lemon or orange, for a refreshing flavor.
• Swirl in some homemade jam or fruit preserves for an added fruity layer.
• Try different nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a unique crunch.

Author’s Commentary

The Italian Cream Bundt Cake is a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. This cake is perfect for any celebration but also makes a lovely treat for a quiet evening at home. The combination of coconut and pecans provides a delightful crunch, while the cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of sweetness. Don’t be surprised if this cake quickly becomes a family favorite!

How to Store & Reheat

To store your Italian Cream Bundt Cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow the cake to come to room temperature, and if desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Ask & Learn

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut; however, you may want to adjust the sugar in the cake to maintain the sweetness.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Start checking at about 60 minutes.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Frost it just before serving for the best texture.

Bring It Home

The Italian Cream Bundt Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that can bring people together. With its easy preparation and stunning appearance, this cake will become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to this delightful creation. You might just find that this cake becomes a cherished tradition in your home, passed down through generations. Enjoy every slice, and happy baking!