Coconut Cake Icing
A rich, coconut-flavored icing perfect for decorating cakes with a tropical touch, combining fluffy egg whites, sweet powdered sugar, and shredded coconut for a delightful finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually pour sifted powdered sugar into the beaten egg whites and mix well.
- Add Crisco (vegetable shortening) to the mixture and beat until incorporated.
- Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt while continuing to beat the mixture.
- Spread the icing evenly over the cake.
- Sprinkle fresh shredded coconut on top of the iced cake.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating for the best volume. If you don't have fresh coconut, you can substitute with unsweetened dried coconut for a similar flavor. For a lighter texture, consider whipping the Crisco until fluffy before adding it to the sugar and egg whites. This icing pairs well with vanilla or almond cake, or even as a topping for No Bake Fudgy Oatmeal Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Spread the icing generously over your favorite cake, such as a classic vanilla or chocolate cake, for a delightful contrast. It also pairs beautifully with Nutmeg Delight Cake, enhancing the flavors. Consider serving slices with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. This icing is perfect for festive occasions or special celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip if necessary to restore its consistency. If you've iced a cake, keep it covered at room temperature for a day or two, but refrigerate for longer storage to prevent spoilage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Cake Icing contains roughly 847 calories, with 7g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 540mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of shortening instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can use other vegetable shortening brands, but results may vary slightly in texture and flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using coconut oil, though it will impart a coconut flavor to the icing. Be sure to melt and cool it before mixing to ensure it combines smoothly with the egg whites and sugar.
How can I make this icing more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor of your icing by adding a few tablespoons of coconut cream or cream of coconut along with the vanilla. For a tropical twist, consider incorporating a splash of rum extract or a bit of lime zest. Adjust the powdered sugar accordingly to maintain the right consistency while boosting flavor.
What should I do if my icing is too runny?
If your icing turns out too runny, try adding more powdered sugar gradually until you reach the desired thickness. Ensure that you mix it thoroughly after each addition. If you find it too stiff after this, you can gently fold in a little more beaten egg white to soften it without losing volume.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).