Prepare to indulge in the softest, lightest, and most heavenly dessert you’ve ever tasted—Coconut Cloud Cake. It’s like biting into a fluffy cloud of coconut goodness that melts in your mouth, with just the right amount of sweetness and a delicate, airy texture. If you’re a coconut lover, this is a dessert that will have you swooning after the very first bite. Trust me, it’s a showstopper at any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy weekend treats.
Imagine a cake so light, it almost feels like it’s floating on air. The coconut flavor is subtle yet unmistakable, and each bite is like a tropical escape, transporting you to a beachy paradise. If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that feels as comforting as a hug but still feels fancy enough for a celebration, this Coconut Cloud Cake is just what you’ve been looking for!
Why You’ll Love Coconut Cloud Cake
Light and Fluffy: This cake is the definition of fluffy! With its soft, cloud-like texture, it practically melts in your mouth.
Subtle Coconut Flavor: The coconut flavor is delicate but absolutely present, giving the cake just the right amount of tropical sweetness without being overpowering.
Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a special celebration or just a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this cake is versatile enough for any occasion.
Easy to Make: Don’t worry if you’re not a pro baker—this cake comes together effortlessly. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying a slice in no time.
A Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is a guaranteed hit! The lightness and the subtle coconut flavor make it loved by both coconut enthusiasts and those who aren’t normally fans of coconut.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy Coconut Cloud Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake. This helps create that light, tender texture that’s perfect for a cloud-like cake.
- Baking Powder: To help the cake rise and keep it light and airy.
- Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: This is where all the coconut flavor comes from. It gives the cake that authentic coconut texture and taste.
- Sugar: Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the coconut flavor.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and makes the sweetness pop.
- Eggs: The binder that brings the cake together and helps with the fluffiness.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps the cake stay soft.
- Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of warm, comforting flavor.
- Coconut Milk: The secret ingredient for that dreamy, rich coconut flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness to the cake’s texture and flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: To make the frosting smooth, creamy, and perfect for topping the cake.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s make this cloud-like beauty together!
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and gives you that light, fluffy texture.
2. Prepare Your Cake Pan
Grease and flour your round cake pans (two 8-inch pans are perfect), or line them with parchment paper. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and comes out easily after baking.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and unsweetened shredded coconut. Set this aside.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This helps incorporate air into the batter for that cloud-like texture.
5. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract for that extra burst of flavor.
6. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and coconut milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
7. Pour into Cake Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops.
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
9. Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key to making sure your frosting doesn’t melt when you apply it.
10. Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
11. Garnish (Optional)
For extra coconut goodness, sprinkle some extra shredded coconut on top of the frosted cake.
12. Serve and Enjoy!
Slice up this cloud-like creation and enjoy the light, fluffy coconut heaven that is your Coconut Cloud Cake.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10
Calories per serving: ~320 calories (based on a typical slice)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve Coconut Cloud Cake
This dreamy cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:
Fresh Fruit: Serve a slice with some tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Whipped Cream: Top it off with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra touch of lightness.
Coffee or Tea: Enjoy this cake alongside a nice cup of hot coffee or tea. The richness of the coconut is perfectly balanced by the warmth of a freshly brewed cup.
Ice Cream: Coconut cake and vanilla ice cream are a match made in heaven. Add a scoop on the side for an extra indulgence.
Additional Tips
Storage Tips: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
Make It Ahead: You can make the cake a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Just frost it when you’re ready to serve.
For Extra Coconut Flavor: If you really love coconut, you can use coconut extract in addition to or in place of the vanilla extract to amp up the flavor!
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the baking powder you’re using is gluten-free.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
A1: Yes, you can! Just reduce the sugar in the cake slightly since sweetened coconut will add extra sweetness.
Q2: Can I freeze this cake?
A2: Absolutely! You can freeze the cake layers individually, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Let them thaw before frosting and serving.
Q3: Can I make this cake without coconut milk?
A3: Yes, you can substitute regular milk if you don’t have coconut milk on hand. It will still taste delicious, but the coconut flavor will be a bit more subtle.
Q4: How can I make this cake more decadent?
A4: Try adding a coconut cream filling between the layers or drizzle the top with coconut syrup for an extra indulgent touch.
Q5: How do I store leftover cake?
A5: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q6: Can I make this cake with coconut flour?
A6: While coconut flour could be used, it requires a different liquid ratio and may alter the texture. I recommend sticking with all-purpose flour for the best results.
Q7: How do I make this cake lighter in texture?
A7: To make the cake lighter, make sure to sift the flour before measuring and gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to avoid overworking the batter.
Q8: Can I make this into cupcakes?
A8: Yes, you can! Bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Top with frosting for a perfect cupcake version.
Q9: What kind of frosting should I use?
A9: A simple buttercream frosting works wonderfully with this cake. You can also use cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Q10: Can I add other flavors to this cake?
A10: Yes! You can mix in some lime zest or orange zest to complement the coconut flavor for a tropical twist.
Conclusion
This Coconut Cloud Cake is a slice of paradise in every bite—light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re a coconut enthusiast or just looking for a cake that’s as elegant as it is delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Lighten up your day with a piece of this heavenly treat and enjoy the soft, airy texture and subtle coconut goodness. Happy baking!
PrintCoconut Cloud Cake
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Coconut Cloud Cake is a light and airy dessert that combines the sweetness of coconut with a fluffy texture that almost melts in your mouth. Topped with a smooth coconut cream frosting, it’s the perfect treat for coconut lovers. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a weeknight dessert, this cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or regular milk)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, for added fluffiness)
For the Coconut Cream Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the coconut milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut.
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Coconut Cream Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until well combined and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of coconut cream frosting on top.
- Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top of the cake for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
- Slice and serve, and enjoy the light, fluffy goodness of this coconut cloud cake!
Notes
- To Toast Coconut: Spread shredded coconut in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- For Extra Coconut Flavor: You can substitute part of the milk with coconut cream or use coconut extract in the frosting for an even richer coconut flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake layers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days before frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 85mg