A classic Southern-style Italian Cream Cake, featuring a rich, tender crumb packed with coconut and nuts. This three-layer cake is finished with a rich cream cheese frosting.

Author

Jr. League


Recipe

MeasurementsIngredients
1 Stick (½ cup)Margarine, softened
1/2 CupShortening
2 CupsSugar
5Eggs, separated
2 CupsFlour
1 tsp (See Note)Baking Soda
1 CupButtermilk
1 TeaspoonVanilla
1 Small Can (3.5 oz)Flaked Coconut
1 CupChopped Nuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the margarine and shortening together. Gradually add the sugar and beat until the mixture is light and smooth.
  3. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
  5. Add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
  6. Stir in the vanilla, coconut, and nuts.
  7. In a separate, clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  8. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.
  9. Pour the batter evenly into the three prepared pans.
  10. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  11. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Frost with your favorite Cream Cheese Frosting.

Note

The original recipe card is missing the amount for baking soda. One teaspoon has been added, which is a standard amount for this recipe and works with the buttermilk to leaven the cake.