Italian love Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Love Cake is the kind of dessert that feels both comforting and elegant. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight but beautiful enough to serve for special occasions. The moist vanilla cake contrasts with the smooth cream cheese layer, while the chocolate drizzle and chips add a decadent finish. It’s a combination of flavors and textures that guarantees every slice is irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup milk

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.

3. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.

4. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy.

5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter in the pan.

6. Spoon the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer, covering as much as possible.

7. In another bowl, whisk cocoa powder and milk together, then drizzle over the batter.

8. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly on top.

9. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving. For best results, refrigerate for at least an hour.

Servings and timing

This Love Cake serves 12 people. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake, for a total of 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

• Use a chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for an extra chocolatey version.

• Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or caramel chips.

• Add a swirl of raspberry or strawberry jam with the cream cheese layer for a fruity twist.

• Enhance the cocoa mixture with espresso powder for a mocha flavor.

• Top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, heat a slice in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make Love Cake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be baked a day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Does the cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because of the cream cheese layer, refrigeration is necessary.

Can I use homemade cake batter instead of a mix?

Absolutely, just substitute the vanilla cake mix with your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

Melted butter, canola oil, or even coconut oil can be used as alternatives.

Can I make this in a round cake pan?

Yes, two 9-inch round pans work well—just adjust baking time slightly.

How do I prevent lumps in the cream cheese layer?

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can cut back slightly on powdered sugar, but the cream cheese mixture may be less sweet.

What kind of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet chips balance the flavors best, but milk or dark chocolate chips also work.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Conclusion

Love Cake is a versatile dessert that blends the comfort of vanilla cake, the richness of cream cheese, and the indulgence of chocolate into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re making it for a party, holiday, or just a cozy evening, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy.

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