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Easy Coconut Cake Recipe – Moist, Tender, and Perfectly Frosted

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This tender coconut cake is a comforting dessert that can be made quickly using pantry staples, perfect for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cake flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tsp coconut extract
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 8 oz cream cheese (for frosting)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp coconut extract (for frosting)
  • Heavy cream as needed
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (topping)
  • 1 cup toasted coconut flakes (topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round pans with butter; line bottoms with parchment.
  2. Cream butter and sugar 3-5 minutes until light and airy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
  4. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to wet mixture.
  5. Add coconut milk, coconut extract, and vanilla until smooth.
  6. Divide batter evenly; bake 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with toothpick.
  7. Cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
  8. Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy; gradually add powdered sugar, coconut extract, and heavy cream for desired frosting consistency.
  9. Level cakes if needed, frost between layers, cover top and sides, press shredded coconut on sides, sprinkle toasted coconut on top.

Notes

  • Store tightly wrapped in fridge up to 4 days.
  • Freeze up to 2 months; thaw in fridge overnight before serving.
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Cake, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian