Classic Italian Cream Cake

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
• For the Frosting:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
  • Additional chopped pecans and shredded coconut for decoration

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
4. Add Coconut and Pecans: Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
5. Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter.
6. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
7. Make the Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat in heavy cream if a softer consistency is desired.
8. Assemble the Cake: Spread frosting between each layer, on the top, and around the cake. Sprinkle the top with additional chopped pecans and coconut.
9. Serve: Allow the cake to set for a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Nutritional Analysis and Health Benefits:

• Calories: Each serving contains approximately 600-700 calories.
• Proteins: Moderate protein content from eggs, pecans, and cream cheese.
• Carbohydrates: High in carbohydrates, primarily from sugar and flour, providing energy.
• Fats: High in fats from butter, vegetable oil, and nuts, which contribute to the cake’s moist texture.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Provides some calcium from buttermilk and cream cheese, and vitamin E from pecans.

Health Impact:

• Bone Health: Calcium in dairy ingredients supports bone health.
• Energy Levels: High sugar and fat content provide a quick energy boost but should be consumed in moderation.
• Heart Health: While pecans contain heart-healthy fats, the overall high fat and sugar content may be a concern for those with cardiovascular conditions.
• Antioxidant Properties: Pecans also offer antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.

This Classic Italian Cream Cake is a luxurious dessert perfect for special occasions. Its rich flavor and decadent texture make it a favorite for celebrations. Due to its high calorie and sugar content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially by those watching their dietary intake.