Frequently Asked Questions
What is this recipe for?
This recipe is for a Decadent Italian Cream Cake that is entirely gluten-free.
Is this cake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this cake is specifically crafted to be gluten-free using a blend of alternative flours.
What flours are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a combination of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour.
Why is xanthan gum included?
Xanthan gum is used to provide structure and elasticity to the cake in the absence of gluten.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How many pans do I need for a layer cake?
You will need three 9-inch round cake pans for a standard layered presentation.
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, you can use one oblong baking dish instead of the round pans if preferred.
How long do I bake the round cakes?
Bake the round cake pans for 25 to 30 minutes.
How long does the oblong cake take to bake?
The oblong pan requires a longer baking time of 40 to 45 minutes.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is ready when a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
How long should I cool the cakes in the pans?
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing them.
What kind of fat is used in the cake batter?
The batter uses a combination of 3/4 cup softened butter and 1/4 cup oil for moisture.
Why are the eggs separated in this recipe?
The yolks are blended into the batter, while the whites are beaten to stiff peaks and folded in to provide volume and fluffiness.
What liquid is used for the batter?
One cup of buttermilk is used, added to the batter alternating with the dry ingredients.
Is there coconut in the cake?
Yes, one cup of flaked coconut is folded into the batter for flavor and texture.
What kind of frosting does this cake have?
It features a Nutty Cream Cheese Frosting made with pecans and cream cheese.
What are the ingredients for the frosting?
The frosting consists of cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and chopped pecans.
How much powdered sugar is needed for the frosting?
You will need one 16-ounce box of sifted powdered sugar.
Should the frosting ingredients be softened?
Yes, both the cream cheese and the butter should be softened to ensure a creamy, smooth texture.
How many pecans are in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of chopped pecans, which are stirred into the frosting.
Can I make this a layer cake?
Yes, and if you do, it is recommended to double the frosting recipe to cover the layers, top, and sides properly.
What is the calorie count per slice?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 28 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content of a serving?
One serving contains approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does a slice provide?
Each slice provides approximately 6 grams of protein.
Does the recipe use shortening?
No, this version replaces shortening with rich butter to create a more moist and flavorful cake.
How many eggs are required in total?
The recipe requires 5 large eggs.
How much vanilla is used in the entire recipe?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract in the cake batter and another tablespoon in the frosting.
When should I add the pecans?
The chopped pecans should be stirred into the frosting after it has been beaten smooth.
Is this cake good for celebrations?
Yes, its rich taste and homemade goodness make it perfect for celebrations or special treats.