Instructions:
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step 6
Gently fold in the unsweetened coconut flakes.
Step 7
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
Step 8
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 10
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Step 11
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 12
Assemble the cake: Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
Step 13
Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Step 14
Sprinkle the remaining coconut flakes over the top and sides of the cake. Optional: Add raspberry or lemon frosting to decorate or add extra flavor.
Step 15
Let the cake set for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to firm up. Enjoy this creamy, decadent coconut cake at your next celebration or gathering!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Coconut Cake:
Use Unsweetened Coconut: Opt for unsweetened coconut flakes instead of sweetened ones. This keeps the cake from being overly sugary and lets the natural coconut flavor shine.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother batter and frosting.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
Chill the Frosting: If you find your frosting too soft to spread, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm it up before frosting your cake.
Add a Zesty Twist: Try adding lemon zest or a bit of lime juice to the batter or frosting for a fresh citrusy contrast that complements the coconut.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Sugars: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 200mg
Calcium: 45mg
Iron: 1mg