Italian cream cake

What You’ll Need

Cake:

• 5 large eggs (separated)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups (9 ounces) all-purpose flour
• 1 stick (4 ounces) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (divided)

Frosting:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick (4 ounces) butter, softened
• 1 box (1 pound) powdered sugar (about 3 3/4 cups, unsifted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 to 2 teaspoons milk or cream, as needed

Topping:

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
2. Separate the eggs. Place the egg whites in a clean glass or stainless-steel bowl. Beat them until stiff peaks form, then set aside.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour and baking soda. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and shortening until creamy. Add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
5. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Alternate adding the flour mixture and the buttermilk to the batter:
   • Start with one-third of the flour mixture
   • Add half of the buttermilk
   • Add another third of the flour, then the rest of the buttermilk
   • Finish with the remaining flour
     Mix until just combined.
8. Stir in the vanilla, coconut, and 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chopped nuts.
9. Gently fold in the beaten egg whites until fully incorporated.
10. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
    Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting:

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar gradually, then the vanilla.
3. If the frosting is too thick, add milk or cream, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

To Assemble:

• Spread the frosting between the cake layers and over the top and sides.
• Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup chopped nuts and extra coconut if desired.
• Optional: Toast the coconut and nuts for extra flavor.

Enjoy!

 🎂🥥🌰

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