Granny'S Coconut Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Granny's Coconut Cake is a moist, tender treat bursting with coconut flavor, complemented by hints of vanilla and pineapple. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this classic dessert offers a delightful combination of sweetness and tropical richness, appealing to coconut lovers and those seeking a nostalgic homemade cake.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 6 eggs
  • 3 cups flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 sticks butter
  • 1 can crushed pineapple
  • 1 package frozen coconut

Instructions

  1. Mix butter, sugar, 4 egg yolks, 2 whole eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
  2. Add flour and milk alternately to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
  3. Pour batter into floured pans.
  4. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, separate the remaining egg whites and beat them until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter before baking. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with diced peaches or apples for a different flavor. If using fresh coconut, ensure it's finely grated to incorporate well into the cake. This recipe could be adapted to make a layer cake or cupcakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the coconut cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with a fruit compote or alongside a cup of coffee. For added texture, consider topping with toasted coconut flakes or serving it with a slice of June's Brown Bread for a unique brunch experience.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F until just heated through, ensuring it stays moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Granny'S Coconut Cake contains roughly 1339 calories, with 16g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1339 kcal 67% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.2g 32% DV
Total Fat 72.1g 92% DV
Carbs 159g 58% DV
Fiber 6.6g 24% DV
Sugar 15.6g 31% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 354.8mg 15% DV
Potassium 856.9mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 383.9mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 110.1mcg 12% DV
Vitamin C 18.7mg 21% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 2% DV
Calcium 346.1mg 27% DV
Iron 7.4mg 41% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
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 unsweetened coconut instead of frozen coconut?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but be sure to adjust the sugar in the recipe since it's generally sweeter. This will give you a more natural coconut flavor and a pleasant texture in the cake.

What can I do if my cake is too dry?

If your cake turns out dry, consider serving it with a simple syrup or a glaze made from the crushed pineapple juice to add moisture. Additionally, ensure you do not overbake the cake, as this can lead to dryness.

How can I make this cake more decadent?

To enhance the cake's richness, you can add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake layers or on top. For a unique twist, consider using the recipe for Frosting For Chocolate Pound Cake to create a chocolate-coconut fusion.

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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