Italian Love Cake: A Decadent Dessert with Layers of Flavor

This Italian Love Cake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that combines rich layers of chocolate, vanilla, and a hint of coffee flavor. The bottom layer is a moist chocolate cake, followed by a creamy, vanilla-flavored custard layer. The two layers bake together to create a beautifully textured dessert that’s both sweet and satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures makes this cake perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. You can easily adjust the coffee flavor by adding more or less depending on your preference, or leave it out entirely for a pure vanilla and chocolate delight.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake mix)
  
  

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  
  

• 1/2 cup sugar
  
  

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  
  

• 3 large eggs
  
  

• 1/2 cup sour cream
  
  

• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (optional, can be replaced with water or milk)
  
  

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  
  

• 1 cup powdered sugar
  
  

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  
  

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
  
  

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  
  

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for topping)
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   
   

2. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, adding in the brewed coffee or water (if using) to enhance the flavor.
   
   

3. Pour the prepared chocolate cake batter into the greased baking dish.
   
   

4. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   
   

5. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder until combined.
   
   

6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chocolate cake batter. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
   
   

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   
   

8. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before frosting with heavy cream.
   
   

9. Once cooled, top with powdered sugar and serve.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 4g
  
  

• Fat: 20g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 32g
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 18g
  
  

• Sodium: 250mg