The dream is simple. A cake so moist it almost melts on your tongue. A flavor that tastes like pure, sweet coconut, not artificial extract. A frosting that is light, creamy, and not too sweet.

This recipe for coconut cream cake makes that dream a reality. It’s a celebration of coconut in every single bite. The crumb is tender and rich. The frosting is impossibly fluffy. This cake feels special enough for a celebration, yet simple enough for a Sunday treat. Let’s walk through how to create this masterpiece.

This guide will give you all the tips and tricks you need for success. You are about to make the best moist coconut cake recipe of your life.

Why This Coconut Cream Cake Recipe Works So Well

What makes this cake different? It uses multiple forms of coconut. We are not relying on just one ingredient. This creates a deep, complex coconut flavor. We use coconut cream in the batter.

This gives the cake a rich, luxurious texture. We also add shredded coconut for that classic chewy bite. Finally, a touch of coconut extract enhances the aroma. The result is a creamy coconut cake recipe that is unforgettable.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Success

Great baking starts with great ingredients. Let’s get everything organized. To have the best recipe for coconut cream cake, you will need:

For the Coconut Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 cup canned coconut cream, well-shaken
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons coconut cream or milk
• 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut, for topping

The Essential Tools You’ll Need

You likely have everything you need already. Here is a quick checklist:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling racks

Your Step-by-Step Recipe for Coconut Cream Cake

Follow these steps for a perfect, stress-free baking experience.

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease your two cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper circles. This guarantees your cakes will release perfectly. It is a simple step that makes a huge difference.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking does two things. It combines everything evenly. It also aerates the flour, leading to a lighter cake crumb. Set this bowl aside for now.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Now, in your large mixing bowl, combine the soft butter and sugar. Beat them together on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes. The mixture should become pale, light, and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft texture. Do not rush it.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time. Beat well after each addition. This helps the eggs emulsify into the batter. Then, mix in the vanilla and coconut extracts. Your kitchen will already start to smell amazing.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Reduce your mixer speed to low. We will now add the dry ingredients and the liquids alternately. Start by adding one-third of the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Then, add half of the coconut cream and milk. Repeat, ending with the final third of the flour. Mix only until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing is the enemy of a tender cake.

Step 6: Fold in the Coconut

Take the bowl off the mixer. Use a spatula to gently fold in the one cup of shredded coconut. This ensures it is evenly distributed without overworking the batter.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in their pans for 15 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges and invert them onto a wire rack. They must cool completely before you frost them. A warm cake will melt your frosting.

How to Make the Perfect Coconut Cake Frosting

This cream cheese frosting is the ideal partner for this cake. It is tangy, creamy, and not overly sweet. First, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth.

Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar with the mixer on low. Once incorporated, add the vanilla and one tablespoon of coconut cream. Beat on high for 2 minutes until fluffy. If it’s too thick, add the remaining coconut cream.

Assembling Your Masterpiece

Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top. Now, apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake. This is called a “crumb coat.” It traps any loose crumbs. Chill the cake for 20 minutes to set this layer.

Finally, frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Gently press the two cups of shredded coconut onto the sides and top of the cake. For a beautiful presentation, you can find a stunning cake stand to display your creation on DoDewRecipes.

Tips for the Best Moist Coconut Cake Recipe

• Room Temperature is Key: Your butter, eggs, and cream cheese must be at room temperature. This allows them to blend smoothly and create an emulsion for a better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake.
• Cool Completely: This is the hardest part! Patience is vital. Frosting a warm cake will lead to a runny, messy disaster.

A Slice of Paradise Awaits

This recipe for coconut cream cake is more than just a list of instructions. It is an invitation to create something wonderful. The process of baking, the aroma that fills your home, and the joy of sharing it, that is the real magic.

This cake is a testament to the power of simple, good ingredients. It is rich, comforting, and utterly delicious. So, preheat your oven and get ready to bake. You are about to make something truly special. And if this cake inspires a new love for baking, you can find your next delicious project in the collection of tried-and-true recipes at DodewRecipes.

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