Description
There’s something magical about coconut that instantly transports us to warmer days and cherished memories. This Coconut Cloud Cake recipe creates more than just a dessert—it crafts an experience that will have your family asking for seconds and your guests requesting the recipe.
When my neighbor Margaret first served me a slice of her famous coconut cake at a neighborhood barbecue three summers ago, I knew I had to learn her secret. After months of gentle persuasion and a few batches of my own trial-and-error attempts, she finally shared her grandmother’s recipe with me. Today, I’m thrilled to pass this treasure along to you.
Ingredients
Why This Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe Stands Above the Rest
This isn’t your typical store-bought coconut cake. What makes this coconut cloud cake recipe extraordinary is its perfect balance of moist, tender cake layers and a cloud-like frosting that practically melts on your tongue. The secret lies in using both coconut milk in the batter and fresh coconut flakes in the frosting—a technique that creates layers of coconut flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
After perfecting this coconut cloud cake recipe over countless family gatherings, I can confidently say this Coconut Cloud Cake has become the star of every celebration. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, holiday dinner, or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this cake delivers restaurant-quality results from your own kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Your Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe
For the Cake Layers:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (preferably unbleached)
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup canned coconut milk (full-fat, not light)
- ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut
For the Cloud Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 2–3 cups sweetened coconut flakes for coating
For Assembly:
- Simple syrup (optional, for extra moisture)
- Additional coconut flakes for decoration
Notes
Mastering Your Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Kitchen for Success
Before you begin, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature—this is crucial for achieving the light, fluffy texture that makes this cake special. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. For best results, line the bottom with parchment paper and lightly dust with flour.
Creating the Perfect Coconut Cake Layers
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients First, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This crucial step ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout your cake.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar Next, cream the butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 4-5 minutes until light and fluffy. Importantly, this step incorporates air into your batter, creating the cake’s tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts Subsequently, beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in vanilla and coconut extracts. As a result, the batter should look smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Meanwhile, combine whole milk and coconut milk in a measuring cup. Then alternately add the flour mixture and milk mixture to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. However, mix just until combined—overmixing can result in a tough cake.
Step 5: Fold in Coconut After that, gently fold in the shredded coconut using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Consequently, this adds texture and pockets of coconut flavor throughout each slice.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection Finally, divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Therefore, bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Additionally, cool in pans for 10 minutes before turning out onto wire racks.
Crafting the Cloud Frosting for Your Coconut Layer Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Base Initially, beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Furthermore, make sure both ingredients are truly at room temperature to avoid lumps.
Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor Gradually beat in powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Subsequently, add heavy cream, vanilla, and coconut extract. Then beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Achieve the Perfect Consistency Ultimately, the frosting should hold its shape but spread easily. However, if too thick, add cream one tablespoon at a time. Conversely, if too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually.