Italian Grandma’s Cake is a creamy, dreamy dessert that brings the richness of Italian flavors into a simple, no-fuss cake. This dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and creamy, with a buttery crust and a smooth, silky filling. It’s a beloved treat passed down through generations, often enjoyed during holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a way to end a beautiful meal.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to recreate this classic Italian dessert in your own kitchen, step by step.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
• 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of melted butter
For the Filling:
• 3 packages (8 oz each) of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• 1/4 cup of heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker texture)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Crust:
• In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch square baking pan or a round springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and evenly.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Filling:
• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until well combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the sour cream and heavy cream and mix until smooth.
• If you like a firmer filling, you can add a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the texture.
• Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in your baking pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Bake the Cake:
• Bake the cake for 40-50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly (it will firm up as it cools).
• Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the cake to set properly.
5. Serve:
• Once the cake is fully chilled, cut into squares or slices and serve.
• You can optionally garnish the top with fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch.
Why You’ll Love Italian Grandma’s Cake:
• Classic Italian Flavor: The creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust come together in perfect harmony for a dessert that’s both rich and satisfying.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need to be an expert baker to make this cake—just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time to let it set in the fridge.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner, or just craving a sweet treat, Italian Grandma’s Cake fits the bill. It’s a versatile dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Serving Suggestions:
This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. For a festive twist, you could top it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even some candied nuts for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients used.)
Conclusion:
Italian Grandma’s Cake is a dessert that brings comfort and nostalgia to your table. With its smooth, creamy filling and crisp, buttery crust, this cake offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, this classic Italian dessert is sure to win over your taste buds.