The Italian Love Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion where you want to impress. This irresistible cake combines the best of both worlds: a light vanilla cake paired with a rich cream cheese layer and a decadent chocolate topping. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dessert that’s creamy, moist, and utterly satisfying. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
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1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
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1 cup water (240 mL)
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½ cup vegetable oil (120 mL)
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3 large eggs
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½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (50 g)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened (225 g)
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1 cup powdered sugar (120 g)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup milk (240 mL)
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½ cup chocolate chips (90 g)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
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Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
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In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Pour the cream cheese mixture over the batter in the pan, spreading it evenly.
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Spoon the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer, covering it as much as possible.
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In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and milk until combined, then drizzle this over the batter.
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Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the batter.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
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Add Espresso: For a richer flavor, add 1 tsp of espresso powder to the cocoa mixture to enhance the chocolate flavor.
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Nuts: If you like crunch, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for an added texture.
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Fruit Topping: Fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries can complement the richness of the cake and add a fruity, tangy contrast.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
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Reheating: This cake is best served chilled, so you don’t need to reheat it. Simply remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving if you’d like it at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without a box cake mix?
Yes, you can make the cake batter from scratch, but using a box mix makes the process quicker and easier.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can use a chocolate cake mix or even a marble cake mix for a different flavor combination.
How can I prevent the cream cheese layer from sinking?
Make sure the cream cheese mixture is smooth and spread evenly over the batter. The cake batter should also be thick enough to support the cream cheese layer.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can use low-fat cream cheese, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese gives the cake its rich, creamy texture.
Is this cake suitable for kids?
Yes, this cake is great for kids. Its combination of vanilla, chocolate, and cream cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
How should I serve this cake?
This cake is best served chilled. Refrigerate for at least an hour after cooling to enhance the flavors before serving.
Can I add frosting to this cake?
This cake doesn’t need frosting, as the cream cheese layer already provides enough richness. However, you can add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
Conclusion
The Italian Love Cake is the perfect dessert to elevate any occasion with its layers of decadent vanilla and chocolate, combined with a creamy and tangy cream cheese layer. Its irresistible combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re serving it for a special celebration or just because, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Italian Love Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Italian Love Cake is an irresistible dessert that beautifully combines layers of vanilla and chocolate cake with a rich and creamy cream cheese filling. Perfect for special occasions or just whenever you want to indulge, this moist, decadent cake will impress anyone who tries it. With a touch of cocoa and a sprinkle of chocolate chips, it’s a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Prepare to fall in love with every bite!
Ingredients
1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
1 cup water (240 mL)
½ cup vegetable oil (120 mL)
3 large eggs
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (50 g)
8 oz cream cheese, softened (225 g)
1 cup powdered sugar (120 g)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup milk (240 mL)
½ cup chocolate chips (90 g)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan evenly.
In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the batter in the pan, spreading it evenly.
Spoon the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer, covering it as much as possible.
In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and milk until combined, then drizzle this over the batter.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool completely before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cocoa mixture.
If you’re short on time, feel free to substitute homemade cake batter with store-bought cake mix, but aim for quality brands for the best results.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and to avoid lumps.
This cake is best served chilled, so refrigerating it for at least an hour after cooling can enhance the flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
