Coconut Cake Recipe

This Coconut Cake recipe is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holiday gatherings. With its soft, moist layers and rich coconut cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to impress your guests. The abundant coconut flavor makes every bite a tropical treat, making it an ideal choice for anyone who loves coconut.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Coconut Cake recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Rich Flavor: Every layer is infused with coconut goodness, ensuring a delicious experience with each bite.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Creamy Frosting: The coconut cream cheese frosting adds a luscious touch that perfectly complements the cake.
• Beautiful Presentation: The shredded coconut garnish makes this cake visually stunning, ideal for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Coconut Cake, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes mixing the batter and frosting effortless and ensures a light texture in your cake.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Ideal for achieving uniform cake layers which bake evenly.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

• 3 cups cake flour (360g)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) (113g)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (120mL)
• 4 large egg whites (lightly beaten)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 cup coconut milk (240ml)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (100g)

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) (227g)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature) (227g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon coconut extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 cups confectioners’ sugar (720g)
• 2½ cups sweetened shredded coconut (250g)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Coconut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Coconut Cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pans

Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the vegetable oil, egg whites, vanilla extract, and coconut extract to the butter mixture. Mix until combined.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with the coconut milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut gently.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Layers

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make Frosting

While cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Add vanilla extract, coconut extract, salt, and gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar until smooth.

Step 10: Assemble Cake

Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake generously.

Step 11: Garnish Your Cake

Finish off by pressing sweetened shredded coconut onto the sides of the frosted cake for an added touch of flavor and decoration.

Enjoy your homemade Coconut Cake!

How to Serve Coconut Cake Recipe

Serving your Coconut Cake is just as important as baking it. The right presentation and accompaniments can enhance the overall experience, making your dessert the star of the show.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet coconut.
• Blueberries: Add a pop of color and an antioxidant boost.
• Raspberries: These add a delightful tang that complements the cake’s sweetness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Rich Chocolate Sauce: A warm drizzle of chocolate creates a luxurious touch.
• White Chocolate Ganache: For an extra creamy feel, this pairs perfectly with coconut.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it balances the density of the cake.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: Reinforce that coconut flavor with this delightful topping.

Served Chilled

• Refrigerated Slices: Enjoying chilled slices adds a refreshing twist, especially on warm days.

How to Perfect Coconut Cake Recipe

Perfecting your Coconut Cake takes a few key steps. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and butter improve flavor and texture.
• Sift Your Flour: Sifting helps to aerate the flour, leading to lighter cake layers.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to dense cake; mix until just combined.
• Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer ensures accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Let It Cool Completely: Cooling allows the cake to set properly before frosting, preventing sliding.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in creating a smooth batter that mixes well.

Best Side Dishes for Coconut Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Coconut Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors.

1. Coconut Sorbet: A light and refreshing option that enhances coconut flavor without being too heavy.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like pineapple and mango adds freshness and balance.
3. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Offer a fun twist on desserts with this classic pairing.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the cake’s texture.
5. Mango Mousse: This light dessert brings tropical sweetness and pairs well with coconut.
6. Lemon Curd Tart: The tartness cuts through sweetness, adding depth to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Coconut Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your delicious creation. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a dense cake. Always allow eggs and butter to reach room temperature before starting.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement by spooning flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough texture. Mix only until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy Coconut Cake.

• Inadequate baking time: Baking too short or too long can affect the cake’s moisture. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time using a toothpick; it should come out clean.

• Ignoring frosting consistency: A runny or too stiff frosting can ruin your presentation. Adjust the cream cheese frosting consistency by adding more confectioners’ sugar or coconut milk as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Coconut Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Coconut Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag.
• You can freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Coconut Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Coconut Cake Recipe special?

This Coconut Cake Recipe is special because it combines soft layers with creamy coconut cream cheese frosting, delivering intense coconut flavor in every bite.

Can I use sweetened coconut milk instead of regular?

Yes, you can use sweetened coconut milk if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, but adjust the sugar in the cake recipe accordingly.

How do I prevent my Coconut Cake from drying out?

To prevent drying, avoid overbaking and ensure you store it properly after cooling. Adding extra shredded coconut also helps retain moisture.

Can I customize this Coconut Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add pineapple or lime zest for an added twist. Experimenting with different extracts can also enhance the flavor.

How do I decorate my Coconut Cake?

You can decorate it with additional shredded coconut on top, fresh fruit, or even edible flowers for an appealing presentation.

Final Thoughts

This easy Coconut Cake recipe showcases delightful layers of moist cake enriched with coconut flavor. Its versatile nature allows for numerous customization options, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and indulge in tropical bliss!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Coconut Cake

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Discover the perfect Coconut Cake recipe, a delightful dessert that brings the tropics to your table. With soft, moist layers infused with rich coconut, this cake is topped with a luscious coconut cream cheese frosting that takes it to another level of indulgence. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just as a sweet treat at home, this cake will impress your guests with both its flavor and beautiful presentation. Garnished with shredded coconut and served alongside fresh berries or drizzled in chocolate sauce, this Coconut Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cake flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (for frosting)
• confectioners' sugar (for frosting)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients: cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add egg whites and extracts to the butter mixture; mix well.
5. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients with coconut milk until just combined. Fold in shredded coconut.
6. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes. Cool completely on a rack.
7. For frosting, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth, then add vanilla and gradually mix in confectioners' sugar.
8. Assemble cake by layering frosting between tiers and covering the entire cake generously.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 40g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg