It sounds like you’re diving into the joy of coconut cake—a classic and versatile dessert perfect for coconut lovers! Here’s a simplified version of a Coconut Cake Recipe that captures the airy, fluffy texture and tropical flavor you’re describing. It’s beginner-friendly and can be adapted for a more adventurous flair.
Fluffy Coconut Cake Recipe 🌴🍰
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (or regular whole milk)
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and coconut extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in the unsweetened coconut flakes.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and coconut extract.
Step 8: Assemble and Decorate
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Gently press the unsweetened coconut flakes onto the frosting, covering the entire cake.
Optional Additions
- Raspberry or Lemon Glaze: Drizzle on top for extra tang.
- Fresh Fruit Garnish: Add raspberries or lemon slices for a pop of color and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Perfectly Balanced: The unsweetened coconut keeps it from being overly sweet.
- Tropical Delight: Great for spring, summer, and festive occasions.
- Customizable: Pair with citrus or berry accents for an adventurous twist.
Enjoy this light and fluffy Coconut Cake as the centerpiece of your next celebration! 🍋🍰🌴