Soft, fluffy layers with that thick coconut frosting

This soft and fluffy coconut layer cake is light, moist, and filled with rich coconut flavor. Finished with a thick creamy coconut frosting and a blanket of shredded coconut, it’s a beautiful dessert perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Bake Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 2 hours
• Servings: 12 slices

Equipment

• Two 8-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Cooling rack
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

Cake Batter

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

Coconut Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tablespoons coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 2 cups shredded coconut for topping

Ingredient Notes

• Coconut Milk: Adds moisture and rich coconut flavor.
• Coconut Extract: Enhances the tropical taste.
• Butter: Use room-temperature butter for a fluffy texture.
• Shredded Coconut: Sweetened coconut gives the best finish.

Instructions

Make the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and coconut extract.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and coconut milk.
6. Fold in shredded coconut.
7. Divide batter evenly between pans.
8. Bake for 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting

1. Beat butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar.
3. Mix in coconut milk and coconut extract until fluffy.

Assemble

1. Frost between cake layers.
2. Cover entire cake with frosting.
3. Press shredded coconut onto the top and sides.
4. Chill slightly before slicing.

Nutrition Facts (Approx. Per Slice)

• Calories: 520
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 29g
• Sugar: 45g

Tips and Variations

• Toast the coconut for extra flavor and crunch.
• Add pineapple filling for a tropical twist.
• Use cream cheese frosting for tangier flavor.
• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Decorate with coconut flakes and white chocolate curls.