Italian Cream Cake

This GF vegetarian Italian Cream Cake recipe takes inspiration from Blue Zones principles and Mama Vega’s wholesome touch. It is a simplified twist on the classic. The cake is bursting with flavor and charm. With light, fluffy layers, the perfect crunch from pecans, and the natural sweetness of coconut, every bite is pure bliss. Topped with a luscious creamy frosting, it’s a dessert that’s as nourishing as indulgent.

Quick Italian Cream Cake Recipe

Ready to get baking? Follow this step-by-step guide to create a show-stopping cake that’s as stunning as it is delicious!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups cake flour/baking flour GF flour sifted
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1-2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup oat butter, softened
• 1/2 cup olive oil (not EVOO due to heat)
• 2 cups crystallized honey
• Egg substitute equal to 5 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
• 1 cup non-dairy buttermilk
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting:

• 8 ounces sheep milk cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup oat butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered honey
• 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
• Optional garnish: extra chopped pecans and shredded coconut

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)—grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
• Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Re-sift after each dry ingredient is added.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, olive oil, and crystallized honey until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
• Alternately, add the sifted flour mixture and non-dairy buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Fold in the shredded coconut and pecans.

1. Whip the Egg Substitute:
2. In a separate bowl, beat the substitute until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg substitutes into the cake batter.
3. Bake:
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Frosting:
6. Beat the sheep milk cream cheese, and oat butter in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered honey, beating until fluffy. Stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract.
7. Assemble the Cake:
8. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top of the layer. Repeat with the remaining layers, then frost the sides and top of the cake. Garnish with a generous amount of pecans and coconut.
9. Chill and Serve:
10. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the frosting set and enhances the flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Italian Cream Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature butter and cream cheese for a smoother batter and frosting.
• Toasting the Coconut and Pecans: To add flavor notes, lightly toast the coconut. Then, toast the pecans before mixing them into the batter.
• Make It Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
• If the batter needs to be fluffier, add a little club soda and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Quick Italian Cream Cake is visually stunning and packed with flavor and texture. It’s the perfect dessert for celebrations, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something special. The balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Have you tried this recipe yet? Share your results in the comments. Don’t forget to spread the joy. Share this recipe with friends and family. For extra amazing recipes like this, visit MamaVega.com

Health Benefits of Ingredients in Mama Vega’s Italian Cream Cake (GF Version)

Base Ingredients

• GF Flour (Gluten-Free Flour)
  • Provides a gluten-free choice for those with sensitivities or celiac disease.
  • Often fortified with nutrients like B vitamins and iron.
• Baking Soda
  • Aids in digestion by balancing stomach acid when consumed in small amounts.
  • Acts as a leavening agent, reducing the need for yeast or other rising agents.
• Celtic Sea Salt
  • It is rich in trace minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
  • Supports electrolyte balance and proper hydration.

Fats and Oils

• Oat Butter
  • It includes beta-glucans, which support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.
  • Rich in healthy fats that give energy and promote satiety.
• Olive Oil
  • Packed with monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
  • Includes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Sweeteners

• Crystallized Honey
  • Natural energy source with antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
  • It includes antioxidants and may help soothe sore throats.
• Powdered Honey
  • Retains the benefits of raw honey in a concentrated, shelf-stable form.
  • It provides a natural sweetening choice to processed sugars.

Binding Agents

• Egg Substitute
  • Supports vegan and allergen-free baking.
  • Often made from chia or flax seeds, adding omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

Flavor Enhancers

• Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract
  • It contains vanillin, which has antioxidant properties.
  • Enhances flavor without the need for alcohol.
• Shredded Coconut
  • High in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which offer quick energy.
  • Rich in dietary fiber, supporting digestion and gut health.
• Chopped Pecans
  • Loaded with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.
  • Promotes brain and heart health due to high vitamin E and magnesium content.

Dairy Alternatives

• Nondairy Buttermilk
  • Typically made from plant-based milk, offering a lactose-free choice.
  • It includes probiotics, if cultured, supporting gut health.

Toppings and Frosting

• Sheep Milk Cream Cheese
  • It is easier to digest for those with lactose sensitivity than cow’s milk.
  • Provides a creamy texture with essential vitamins like B-12 and calcium.
• Powdered Honey
  • It adds a delicate sweetness with antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits.

Mama Vega’s Italian Cream Cake combines indulgence and mindful eating. It provides nutrient-dense ingredients while catering to diverse dietary needs!

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