Coconut Layer Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist and flavorful coconut layer cake with creamy coconut frosting, perfect for celebrations and gatherings, offering tropical sweetness and fluffy texture.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2/3 cup butter or shortening
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Sift the flour once.
  2. Measure, add baking powder and salt, and sift together three times.
  3. Cream the butter thoroughly.
  4. Add sugar gradually and cream together until light and fluffy.
  5. Add eggs, one at a time, beating very thoroughly after each addition.
  6. Add flour, alternately with milk, a small amount at a time, beating well after each addition.
  7. Add vanilla.
  8. Bake in two greased 9-inch layer pans in a moderate oven (375°F) for 25 to 30 minutes.
  9. Spread frosting between layers and on top and sides of the cake.
  10. Use coconut frosting.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter cake, ensure you cream the butter and sugar until it is very fluffy. If you don't have butter, vegetable shortening can be a suitable substitute for a similar texture. To make the cake richer, consider adding a bit of coconut milk in place of some of the regular milk. This will enhance the coconut flavor in the cake.

Serving Suggestions

This Coconut Layer Cake pairs beautifully with a refreshing Apple Milkshake or a cup of hot tea. For a festive touch, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit salad. It’s perfect for celebrations or as a delightful dessert after dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm slice of cake.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coconut Layer Cake contains roughly 278 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).

278 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.6g 9% DV
Total Fat 9.2g 12% DV
Carbs 45g 16% DV
Fiber 2.4g 8% DV
Sugar 5.8g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 331.2mg 14% DV
Potassium 224.5mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 55.2mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31.9mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 16.5mg 18% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 143.3mg 11% DV
Iron 2.3mg 13% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 coconut flour instead of regular flour?

Coconut flour has different properties and absorbs more moisture, so it's not a direct substitute. If you want to incorporate coconut flavor, consider adding shredded coconut to your regular flour instead.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Coconut Layer Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the baking powder and any other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What frosting pairs well with this cake?

Coconut frosting is traditional, but cream cheese frosting or a light vanilla buttercream can also complement the flavors nicely. You could even add a hint of lime to the frosting for a tropical twist!

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).

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