Fluffy and delicious Coconut Cake

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a Coconut Cake that’s perfect for any occasion!
coconut cake 1

Coconut cake is a moist, flavorful cake made with coconut as a central ingredient, typically featuring both coconut milk or cream in the batter and shredded coconut in the frosting or the cake itself. It’s a beloved dessert, often served for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or even just as a delicious treat with coffee or tea.

Key Features of Coconut Cake:

  • Moist Texture: Coconut milk or cream adds richness, making the cake moist and tender.
  • Coconut Flavor: The shredded coconut used in the batter and frosting gives the cake a delightful, tropical flavor.

History:

Coconut cake has a long history, particularly in Southern cooking in the United States, where coconut was a popular ingredient. It became a classic dessert for holiday gatherings and celebrations. Over time, it has become popular worldwide, with variations in different cultures adding their own unique spins on the cake.

Whether you’re making it for a special event or simply because you love coconut, it’s a decadent and delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!

coconut cake

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a Coconut Cake that’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk (or regular milk if you prefer)
  • 1 cup (90g) shredded sweetened coconut

For the Icing:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons castor sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded sweetened coconut (for topping)

Instructions:

Make the Cake:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract.
  5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in the Coconut: Gently fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed in the batter.
  7. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:

  1. Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
  2. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining whipped cream.
  3. Top with Coconut: Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top and sides of the cake.
  4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.

Tips:

  • For an extra coconut flavor, you can use coconut extract in addition to or instead of vanilla extract.
  • If you prefer a more dense cake, you can substitute part of the coconut milk with sour cream.
  • You can add a little toasted coconut on top for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy your Coconut Cake! It’s perfect for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to enjoy.

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