Coconut cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich, tropical flavor of coconut with a moist, tender cake texture. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making a coconut cake from scratch. We’ll cover everything from gathering your ingredients to baking and frosting your cake. By the end, you’ll have a beautiful, delicious coconut cake that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s list out all the ingredients you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional, but recommended for extra coconut flavor)
For the Frosting:
- 1 and 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 6 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk, chilled
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 and 1/2 cups shredded coconut, toasted
For Garnish:
- Toasted shredded coconut
- Fresh coconut flakes (optional)
- Edible coconut glitter or sprinkles (optional)
Equipment:
- Three 8-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Cooling racks
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Offset spatula
- Piping bag and tips (optional, for decorative frosting)
Preparation
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper circles to ensure easy release. Set the pans aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla
With the mixer on medium speed, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well mixed. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the coconut milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If you’re using coconut extract, add it in with the last addition of coconut milk.
Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans, spreading it out smoothly with a spatula. Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges to loosen them and transfer them to cooling racks set over parchment paper or baking sheets. Peel off the parchment paper circles and let the cakes cool completely.
Making the Frosting
Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Add Powdered Sugar
With the mixer on low speed, add the powdered sugar in one-cup increments, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add Coconut Milk and Vanilla
Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, add the chilled coconut milk and vanilla extract. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for about 3-4 minutes, until the frosting is light, fluffy, and well combined. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a little more coconut milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Fold in Toasted Shredded Coconut
Using a spatula, gently fold in the toasted shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the frosting.
Assembling the Cake
Level the Cakes
If your cakes have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them off. This will help ensure your cake layers stack evenly.
Place the First Layer
Place the first cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Use an offset spatula to spread a thick, even layer of frosting on top.
Add the Second Layer
Place the second cake layer on top of the first, aligning it as straight as possible. Spread another thick, even layer of frosting on top.
Add the Third Layer
Place the third cake layer on top of the second. At this point, you can use a crumb coat to help seal in any crumbs and provide a smooth surface for the final layer of frosting. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Use a spatula to smooth it out and refrigerate the cake for about 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
Apply the Final Frosting
Once the crumb coat is set, spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake, using an offset spatula to create smooth, even layers.
Decorating the Cake
Add Toasted Shredded Coconut
Press toasted shredded coconut into the sides and top of the cake for a beautiful, coconut-y finish. Make sure to press it gently so it sticks to the frosting.
Add Optional Garnishes
If desired, sprinkle fresh coconut flakes, edible coconut glitter, or sprinkles over the top of the cake for added decoration.
Serving Your Coconut Cake
Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife to slice your coconut cake into even pieces. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the frosting may harden slightly in the refrigerator, but it will soften upon sitting at room temperature for a few minutes.
Conclusion
Making a coconut cake from scratch may seem like a daunting task, but with the right ingredients and clear instructions, it becomes a manageable and rewarding process. The result is a moist, flavorful cake with a rich coconut frosting that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this coconut cake recipe is a fantastic choice.
Remember to take your time and enjoy the process. Baking is as much about the journey as it is about the destination, and there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a beautiful, delicious cake from start to finish. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a coconut cake that will be the highlight of your next gathering. Enjoy!
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