Nellie'S Fresh Coconut Cake

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

A luscious coconut cake featuring moist layers, creamy fillings, and toasted coconut topping, perfect for celebrations or tropical-inspired gatherings seeking rich, sweet, and nutty flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box yellow or white cake mix
  • 2 large bags frozen coconut or 2 fresh coconuts
  • 1 box powdered sugar
  • 8 oz. sour cream
  • 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 5 eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Bake the cake as directed on the box and allow it to cool.
  2. Split the cake into layers and set aside.
  3. Prepare the first filling by mixing 8 oz. sour cream with 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar until smooth.
  4. Spread the first filling between the cake layers.
  5. Prepare the second filling similarly if desired, and spread it on top of the first layer before adding the next.
  6. Once assembled, frost the top and sides of the cake with icing made from powdered sugar and other ingredients as desired.
  7. Sprinkle 1 bag of frozen coconut over the top and sides of the cake.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using freshly grated coconut instead of frozen, or substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a hint of caramel. If you want to lighten the cake, use egg whites only or a low-fat sour cream. Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Nellie's Fresh Coconut Cake with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with Pineapple-Cheese-Pecan Salad for a refreshing contrast. This cake is perfect for special occasions, and you can also enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover coconut cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain freshness, wrap each layer in plastic wrap before refrigerating. If you want to freeze the cake, place it in an airtight container or freeze it in slices for quick serving later.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Nellie'S Fresh Coconut Cake contains roughly 489 calories, with 4g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

489 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.6g 7% DV
Total Fat 18g 23% DV
Carbs 77.7g 28% DV
Fiber 5.2g 19% DV
Sugar 48.3g 97% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 81.7mg 4% DV
Potassium 1170.7mg 25% DV
Cholesterol 49.5mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 18.4mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 7.8mg 9% DV
Calcium 69.2mg 5% DV
Iron 1.9mg 11% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg

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 flavor of cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix such as lemon or almond to give the coconut cake a unique twist. Just ensure that the flavor complements the coconut and does not overpower it.

How do I make the frosting more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of the frosting, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or coconut extract to the powdered sugar and water mixture. You can also incorporate cream cheese for a richer, tangy frosting that pairs well with the cake.

What can I do with leftover coconut?

If you have leftover coconut, consider using it in recipes like Freezer Oatmeal Pancakes or as a topping for yogurt and granola. You can also incorporate it into smoothies for added texture and flavor, or sprinkle it over desserts for a tropical touch.

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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