Delicious Vanilla Coconut Cake

Name: Delicious Vanilla Coconut Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup coconut cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup toasted coconut for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

I absolutely love crafting this Delicious Vanilla Coconut Cake for friends and family gatherings. The combination of rich vanilla and sweet coconut creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone can enjoy. I find that using fresh coconut gives it a delightful texture and enhances the flavor significantly. Every time I make this cake, it disappears almost instantly, which is a testament to its irresistible charm. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to add it to your baking repertoire for any occasion!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:14:28.138Z

When I first experimented with this vanilla coconut cake, I wanted to create something that reminded me of tropical islands, bright sunshine, and carefree afternoons. I discovered that pairing coconut milk with vanilla extract gives the cake a moist texture and an aromatic scent that lingers in the kitchen. Adding shredded coconut to the batter not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.

One of my favorite tips is to let the cake cool completely before frosting it with coconut whipped cream. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the cream doesn't melt. I also love adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for added texture and visual appeal. It’s these small touches that elevate the cake from good to truly exceptional!

Why You Will Love This Cake
Rich vanilla flavor balanced with creamy coconut
Moist and fluffy texture that's a crowd-pleaser
Perfect for birthdays, parties, or a cozy dessert at home

Mastering the Coconut Texture

Using fresh shredded coconut is key to achieving the cake's delightful texture. It not only adds a pleasant chewiness but also enhances the overall coconut flavor. If fresh coconut isn't available, unsweetened dried coconut can be used as a substitute. Make sure to soak it in the coconut milk for about 10 minutes before adding it to the batter; this will help rehydrate the coconut and keep the cake moist.

The balance between wet and dry ingredients is crucial for achieving the desired fluffiness. If you find the batter too thick after combining the wet and dry ingredients, you can add a tablespoon of coconut milk to loosen it slightly. However, be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. Mixing just until combined ensures a light and airy texture.

Frosting Perfectly

For the frosting, it's essential to use heavy cream that’s cold to achieve stable peaks. I recommend chilling your mixing bowl and whisk attachments for about 10 minutes before starting. This helps incorporate more air into the cream, resulting in a fluffy and light frosting. Beat until you see soft peaks, then gradually add the powdered sugar and coconut cream to maintain the volume without losing air.

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the frosting. This contrast enhances the sweetness and balances the richness of the cake. If you'd prefer a dairy-free option, try using coconut whipped cream in place of heavy cream. Just remember, dairy-free creams can vary in stiffness, so watch the consistency carefully while mixing.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

Once your cake is assembled, let it sit at room temperature for up to an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and gives the frosting time to set. For a fun twist, serve individual slices with a dollop of whipped coconut cream and a sprinkle of additional toasted coconut. It's a lovely finishing touch that adds a burst of flavor and texture!

Should you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will remain fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I recommend freezing individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to keep the texture intact without drying out.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this heavenly vanilla coconut cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup shredded coconut
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup coconut cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup toasted coconut for garnish

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready to ensure a smooth baking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious vanilla coconut cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the shredded coconut.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with a hand mixer until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar, coconut cream, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until thick and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, remove them from the pans and place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the cake for a finishing touch. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious vanilla coconut cake with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of coconut flavor, consider adding coconut extract to the batter. Additionally, ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smoother blend, which makes for a fluffier cake.

Flavor Variations

While this cake is delicious as is, feel free to explore flavor variations! Adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla can provide a unique twist on the classic flavor profile. You might also incorporate citrus zest, such as lemon or lime, for a refreshing brightness that complements the coconut beautifully.

If you’d like to introduce a fruit element, consider layering fresh mango or pineapple slices between the cake layers. These fruits pair excellently with coconut and add a vibrant touch to the dessert while enhancing its tropical feel.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can be scaled easily for larger gatherings. To make a three-tier cake, simply increase the batter ingredients by 1.5 times. Divide the mixture evenly among three 9-inch round pans and bake as directed, checking for doneness approximately 5 minutes earlier than the original baking time.

If you're short on time, consider baking the cake in a 9x13-inch pan instead. Bake for 30-35 minutes, adjusting the time based on your oven. Cut the cake into squares for easier serving, and you still can follow through with the same frosting and finishing touches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, you can use sweetened coconut, but it will make the cake a bit sweeter.

→ How can I make this cake dairy-free?

Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut yogurt instead of heavy cream in the frosting.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ What should I do if my cake is too dry?

If you find your cake is too dry, ensure you are measuring the flour correctly and not overbaking it. A simple syrup can also help moisten the cake.