Decadent Quick Italian Cream Cake – Easy Layers of Bliss

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for frosting consistency)
• Shredded coconut (optional for garnish)
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Incorporate Flavor: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until combined.
6. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
7. Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
8. Bake the Cakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Cool the Layers: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
10. Prepare the Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and blend in the vanilla extract.
11. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top, repeat with the second layer, and place the final layer on top.
12. Frost the Outside: Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.
13. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped nuts on top.
14. Chill and Serve: Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

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