COCONUT LAYER CAKE

This easy yet flavourful Coconut Layer Cake recipe is fresh and full of coconut in every bite. Paired with a creamy coconut cream cheese frosting, any coconut lover will go crazy for this cake!

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TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST COCONUT LAYER CAKE:

1. Choose the Right Coconut

When making a coconut layer cake, the type of coconut you choose can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your cake. Fresh coconut is ideal for the most authentic taste, but if fresh coconut is not available, opt for high-quality unsweetened shredded coconut. This will provide a rich coconut flavor without the added sweetness that can overwhelm the cake. Toasting the shredded coconut lightly before adding it to your batter can also enhance the flavor, giving it a nutty, aromatic quality.

2. Use Coconut Milk for Moisture

Incorporating coconut milk into your cake batter not only adds moisture but also intensifies the coconut flavor. Replace some or all of the regular milk in your recipe with full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture. This substitution will create a denser cake that remains moist even after baking, ensuring that each slice is deliciously flavorful and satisfying.

3. Perfect Your Cake Layers

For a truly impressive coconut layer cake, it's essential to bake even layers. To achieve this, use a kitchen scale to measure your batter accurately for each layer. Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans, and consider using a cake leveler to ensure that each layer is flat and even after baking. This will not only make stacking your cake easier but will also create a professional-looking finish.

4. Frosting Techniques

The frosting is just as important as the cake itself. A classic choice for coconut layer cake is a fluffy cream cheese frosting or a light whipped cream frosting. To make your frosting extra special, fold in some toasted coconut flakes or a splash of coconut extract for an added burst of flavor. When frosting the cake, consider using a crumb coat first—this is a thin layer of frosting that seals in crumbs and creates a smooth surface for your final layer of frosting.

5. Layering and Assembly

When assembling your coconut layer cake, take the time to ensure that each layer is properly aligned. Use a turntable to help with the frosting process, making it easier to achieve a smooth finish. Between each cake layer, you can add a generous layer of frosting and sprinkle some shredded coconut to create a delightful texture contrast. Don’t forget to apply a final layer of frosting around the sides and top of the cake, and then cover the entire cake with more coconut flakes for a beautiful, snowy appearance.

6. Chilling the Cake

After assembling your cake, it's beneficial to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes it easier to slice. Additionally, chilling the cake enhances the flavors as it allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. If you're preparing the cake in advance, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days, and the flavors will continue to develop.

7. Garnishing and Presentation

Presentation plays a key role in making your coconut layer cake truly stand out. Consider garnishing the top with fresh coconut slices, edible flowers, or even a drizzle of coconut cream for an elegant touch. A sprinkle of toasted coconut on top can also add a nice crunch and visual appeal. Serve the cake on a beautiful cake stand to elevate its presentation, making it the centerpiece of any gathering.

8. Pairing Suggestions

To enhance the experience of enjoying your coconut layer cake, think about pairing it with complementary flavors. A tropical fruit salad or a scoop of pineapple sorbet can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake. Additionally, serving the cake with a cup of coconut-flavored tea or a tropical cocktail can create a delightful harmony of flavors that will impress your guests. By following these detailed tips, you can create a coconut layer cake that is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, ensuring that it is a hit at any occasion.

COCONUT LAYER CAKE

Serves: 12

INGREDIENTS

For the Coconut Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 Tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 13.5 ounces canned unsweetened coconut milk , divided

• 1 1/2 teaspoons coconut extract (can also swap for almond extract)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 5 large egg whites

For the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup butter, room temperature

• 8 ounces cream cheese , room temperature

• 4-5 cups powdered sugar

• 1 – 2 Tablespoons leftover coconut milk , regular milk

• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

TO MAKE

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom of two 8 inch cake pans with parchment paper and spray the bottom and sides of the pan lightly with cooking spray.

2. Mix dry ingredients In a mixing bowl; flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

3. In a separate mixing bowl beat the butter on medium speed with an electric hand mixer or stand mixer for 1 minute, until light and fluffy. Add sugar and mix until well creamed together. Add 1 ¼ cups canned coconut milk and coconut extract and mix.

4. Gradually add flour mixture and mix on medium speed for 2 minutes.

5. Beat egg whites in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the batter until incorporated.

6. Divide cake batter evenly between prepared cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean, or with few moist crumbs. Remove the pans from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before inverting them onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

7. Once cakes have cooled, use a sharp serrated knife to torte/cut each cake round in half horizontally, so that you end up with four thin cake rounds.

8. Make the frosting once the cakes are cooled by beating butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and a splash of remaining coconut milk and mix until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add a little more milk, to thin, or powdered sugar to stiffen, if needed, until you reach your desired frosting consistency. Stir in coconut flakes, saving some for sprinkling on the sides and top of the cake, if desired.

9. To assemble: Place one cake layer on serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over it. Top with second cake layer. Repeat for layer 4. Frost the sides and top of the cake with coconut cream cheese frosting. Sprinkle outsides of cake with shredded coconut, if desired. Enjoy!