Fresh Coconut Cake With Sour Cream Frosting

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist, sweet coconut cake layered with creamy sour cream frosting and topped with toasted coconut flakes, perfect for celebrations or a tropical-inspired dessert.

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Ingredients

  • 1 yellow cake mix
  • 1 tsp coconut flavoring
  • 1 (8 oz) pkg sour cream
  • 1 (16 oz) pkg Cool Whip
  • 1 cup white sugar

Instructions

  1. Mix and bake the yellow cake according to package directions, adding coconut flavoring.
  2. After the cake bakes, prick the layer with a fork and spoon coconut milk over it.
  3. Mix together sour cream, Cool Whip, sugar, and coconut.
  4. Frost the cake layer with the coconut mixture.
  5. Sprinkle coconut over the top of the cake.
  6. Refrigerate the cake for 2 to 3 days before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more intense coconut flavor, consider using coconut extract instead of coconut flavoring. If you want a fresher texture, you can substitute part of the Cool Whip with whipped heavy cream. Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cake moist.

Serving Suggestions

This coconut cake is delightful on its own but can be paired with fresh fruit like pineapple or mango for a tropical twist. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Chris' Sour Cream Coffee Cake for a delightful dessert spread. A cup of coffee or iced tea complements the sweetness beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover coconut cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. This cake is best enjoyed cold and can be served straight from the fridge. Reheating is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the frosting and cake.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fresh Coconut Cake With Sour Cream Frosting contains roughly 300 calories, with 2g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.

300 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 7.4g 10% DV
Carbs 58.8g 21% DV
Fiber 2g 7% DV
Sugar 38.9g 78% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 136.7mg 6% DV
Potassium 91.8mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.9mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Calcium 44.4mg 3% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 make this coconut cake in advance?

Yes, this coconut cake can be made in advance. In fact, it's recommended to refrigerate it for 2 to 3 days before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just make sure to cover it well to maintain its freshness.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

If you prefer a homemade option, you can make your own whipped topping by whipping heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will give you a fresher taste and a creamier texture compared to store-bought Cool Whip.

Can I freeze the coconut cake?

Yes, you can freeze the coconut cake. To do so, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

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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