Moist Coconut Cake with Cream of Coconut – Tropical Treat
Introduction
Imagine cutting into a slice of the softest, most decadent coconut cake—each bite bursting with rich, tropical flavor. If you’ve ever wanted to make a coconut cake with cream of coconut recipe that is moist, fluffy, and absolutely irresistible, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself, this recipe will guide you step by step. Unlike traditional coconut cakes, this version uses cream of coconut, giving it an ultra-moist texture and a deep coconut flavor that’s impossible to resist.
Get ready to learn the secrets of making a perfect coconut cake from scratch!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ¾ cups |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Cream of coconut | 1 cup |
| Coconut milk | ½ cup |
| Shredded coconut | 1 cup |
Frosting Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups |
| Cream of coconut | ½ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Shredded coconut | ½ cup (for topping) |
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Flour: Swap for cake flour for an even softer texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter, coconut cream cheese, and coconut milk instead of dairy-based products.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Batter
A great cake starts with the right technique. Follow these steps carefully for the best results:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a soft texture.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients, alternating with cream of coconut and coconut milk.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut for extra texture.
2. Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Making the Coconut Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Pour in cream of coconut and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
4. Assembling the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
- Add the second layer and coat the entire cake with frosting.
- Sprinkle with shredded coconut for an elegant finish.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Coconut Cake
✔️ Use room temperature ingredients – This helps everything blend smoothly.
✔️ Don’t overmix the batter – It should be combined just until smooth.
✔️ For extra moisture, brush the baked cake layers with a bit of coconut milk before frosting.
✔️ Toast the shredded coconut before topping the cake for an added depth of flavor.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze slices for up to 3 months – wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
FAQs
Can I make this coconut cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day before and frost them when ready to serve.
What’s the difference between cream of coconut and coconut milk?
Cream of coconut is thicker, sweeter, and more concentrated, while coconut milk is lighter and unsweetened. This recipe needs cream of coconut for its richness.
How do I make this cake dairy-free?
Swap out the butter for vegan butter, the cream cheese for dairy-free cream cheese, and the milk for coconut milk.
Conclusion
This Easy Coconut Cake with Cream of Coconut Recipe is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its moist layers, rich coconut frosting, and irresistible texture, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let us know how it turns out. Drop a comment below, share your experience, or tag us in your coconut cake photos!