Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Delicious Creamy Coconut Cake is a moist, decadent dessert bursting with tropical flavors. With its soft layers, creamy coconut frosting, and shredded coconut topping, this cake is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply indulging your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

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

Cake

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Coconut milk
Vanilla extract
Sweetened shredded coconut

Frosting

Cream cheese, softened
Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Coconut extract
Sweetened shredded coconut (for topping)

Directions

For the Cake

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and coconut milk to the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the shredded coconut.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
Flavor: Stir in the coconut extract.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Sprinkle shredded coconut generously over the frosting.
Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Cooling and assembly: 40 minutes

Variations

Tropical twist: Add crushed pineapple to the batter for extra tropical flavor.
Almond-coconut combo: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the cake.
Lighter version: Substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
Cupcakes: Bake the batter in a cupcake pan for 18-20 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use canned coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes, but dilute it slightly with water to achieve the consistency of coconut milk.

How do I keep my cake layers moist?

Don’t overbake the cake, and consider brushing the layers with a simple syrup before frosting.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost before serving.

What’s the best way to shred coconut at home?

Use a box grater or a food processor to shred fresh coconut.

Can I use unsweetened coconut for the topping?

Yes, but sweetened coconut adds a lovely sweetness and texture.

Can I replace the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream?

Yes, whipped cream makes a lighter alternative. Add a touch of coconut extract for flavor.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too sweet?

Use less powdered sugar and add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter, cream cheese, and coconut milk.

What’s the best pan for baking this cake?

A 9-inch round cake pan works best, but you can also use a 9×13-inch pan for a sheet cake version.

Can I add other fruits to the cake?

Yes, adding fruits like mango or passion fruit can enhance the tropical flavor.

Conclusion

This Delicious Creamy Coconut Cake is a delightful treat that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Its moist texture, rich coconut flavor, and creamy frosting make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress.

Delicious Creamy Coconut Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients