This unforgettable Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons is the ultimate showstopper for any dessert table. Imagine a pillowy vanilla swirl cake with tangy ribbons of raspberry, all cloaked in sweet, snowy coconut—every bite is a celebration. Whether you’re planning a spring brunch or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake transforms classic flavors into a playful, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Get ready to fall for its fluffy texture, vibrant color, and just the right balance between elegance and nostalgia.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk simple magic: each ingredient in this cake is carefully chosen for maximum flavor and that signature soft crumb. The beauty of this recipe lies in balancing pantry staples with a few vibrant touches—every item earns its place and makes this cake irresistible.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender, soft base for your cake layers.
- Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully, giving you that light, fluffy bite.
- Salt: A pinch is all it takes to bring out every sweet and tangy note in the cake.
- Unsalted butter, room temperature: Creams perfectly, creating a moist and luscious crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that irresistible golden top.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness for a velvety texture.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and coziness in every slice.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and tenderness, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- Raspberry preserves (for the swirl): Bursts of tart-sweet fruit swirled through each layer, for color and zing.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (for the coating): Creates the signature “snowball” look and a chewy, sweet finish.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): Adds a wintry touch and extra sweetness if you like.
How to Make Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-cup oven-safe dome-shaped cake pan (or an oven-friendly mixing bowl if you don’t have a dome pan) and dust the inside with flour, tapping out any excess. This slick, floury coating will help your finished Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons pop out of the pan without a hitch and look celebration-ready from the start.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This quick mix makes sure the leavening is evenly distributed for a tender, lofty cake—no uneven patches and perfect texture every time.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until it’s light, creamy, and almost fluffy—usually around 3-5 minutes with a hand or stand mixer. This step isn’t just for show! It aerates the batter, ensuring the Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons turns out melt-in-your-mouth and ultra soft.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add that fragrant vanilla extract and blend again. Each egg gives richness and holds the cake together, while vanilla adds a dreamy layer of aroma and depth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture—try doing this in three rounds. Gentle mixing makes sure you don’t overwork the batter, keeping everything cloud-light but well incorporated.
Step 6: Layer and Swirl
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Dollop your warmed raspberry preserves across the surface, then pour the remaining batter over the top. Grab a knife or skewer and gently swirl the preserves into the batter. This is the moment when Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons earns its signature surprise-in-every-slice look. Pro tip: less swirling means more dramatic ribbons of raspberry!
Step 7: Bake, Cool, and Unmold
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let your cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes—this helps it set and makes it easier to unmold. Invert onto a wire rack and cool completely. You’ll see those gorgeous red and white swirls peeking through, just waiting for their coconut snow jacket.
Step 8: Snowball Coating Time
If the cake looks a touch dry, brush the outside lightly with water or simple syrup—this helps the coconut stick. Gently press the sweetened shredded coconut all over the surface until it’s fully coated. If you love an extra touch of snowy charm, sift a layer of powdered sugar over the top. With that, your Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons is ready to slice and dazzle!
How to Serve Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons

Garnishes
The beauty of this cake is its gorgeous coconut crown, but you can add pizzazz with a few fresh raspberries, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. These tiny flourishes highlight the playful, springtime spirit of your Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons and make each slice truly eye-catching.
Side Dishes
Balance the sweetness with a bowl of tart mixed berries or a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt. For an afternoon tea, pair your snowball slice with a cup of fragrant Earl Grey or a glass of floral hibiscus iced tea—it’s the perfect combo for sunny days or cozy gatherings alike.
Creative Ways to Present
This cake truly shines as a centerpiece. Try making mini snowball cakes using cupcake molds for individual servings; they’re adorable on dessert platters. You can even layer slices with extra jam and coconut in glass jars for a playful trifle twist—just another reason the Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons wows every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons tightly in plastic wrap or pop slices in an airtight container. It’ll stay moist and fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days—just be sure to let it come to room temp before serving for the softest texture.
Freezing
This cake freezes like a charm. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator—once it’s defrosted, the coconut will still keep the surface looking and tasting delicious.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The coconut gets extra fragrant and the raspberry swirl turns a bit melty—altogether an irresistible treat, especially when served with ice cream or whipped cream.
FAQs
Can I use other preserves besides raspberry?
Absolutely! Strawberry, blackberry, or even apricot preserves work beautifully in this Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons. Just make sure your chosen preserves are slightly warmed so they dollop and swirl with ease.
What if I don’t have a dome-shaped pan?
No worries at all—you can use any 10-cup oven-safe mixing bowl or even bake the batter in a standard Bundt pan. The result will still taste heavenly, even if the shape is a little different. The coconut coating gives it that unmistakable snowball look regardless.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can be swapped for regular flour in this Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons. Just check that your baking powder and preserves are gluten-free, and you’re ready for a celiac-friendly twist on the classic.
Does this cake need frosting?
Nope! The shredded coconut coating provides all the sweetness and texture you need. If you love extra decadence, feel free to drizzle with a simple glaze or add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice for serving.
How do I keep the coconut from falling off?
If the cake’s surface feels a bit dry, lightly brush it with water or simple syrup before pressing on the coconut. This creates a sticky layer that helps the coconut adhere—your Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons will look snowy and stay that way.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll find as much joy in baking (and eating!) this Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons as I do. Its playful layers, sweet coconut surprise, and bright raspberry flavor turn any gathering into a celebration. Give it a try—the magic starts with the first slice!
PrintSnowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons Recipe
This Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake is a light, unfrosted swirl cake with layers of vanilla batter and raspberry preserves, all coated in sweet shredded coconut. Moist, fluffy, and perfect for spring gatherings, this showstopping dessert brings the beauty of coconut snowballs into a sliceable centerpiece.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Swirl:
- ½ cup raspberry preserves (slightly warmed)
For the Coating:
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-cup oven-safe dome pan or bowl; dust with flour.
- Prepare the batter: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Swirl and bake: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop raspberry preserves on top, then cover with remaining batter. Swirl gently with a knife or skewer. Bake 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and coat: Cool 10 minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely. Brush the cake with water or syrup, if needed, and press coconut all over to coat. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t over-swirl the preserves—less mixing gives a more distinct ribbon pattern.
- For mini versions, use cupcake molds and reduce baking time to 18–22 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Sugar: Approximately 25g
- Sodium: Approximately 200mg
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
- Fiber: Approximately 2g
- Protein: Approximately 5g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 65mg