Easy Toasted Coconut Cake

If you're craving a dessert that captures the essence of the tropics, look no further than this easy toasted coconut cake recipe! With its moist texture and rich coconut flavor, this cake shines on any occasion—be it a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or simply a sweet treat for yourself.

In this guide, we’ll take you through each step to craft this delightful cake, complete with a creamy coconut buttercream frosting and a sprinkle of toasted coconut topping. Let’s get started!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we jump in, let’s make sure you have everything you need for this easy coconut cake recipe:

For the Cake:

• 1 (15.9 oz) box of white cake mix

• 3 eggs

• 1 cup water

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

• 1 cup cream of coconut

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut

  
  

For the Coconut Buttercream Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1-2 teaspoons coconut extract

• 1/3 cup cream of coconut

  
  

For the Toasted Coconut:

• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut (for toasting)

  
  

Now that we have everything ready, let’s begin baking!

Making the Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for achieving a cake that bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 13x9 inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn't stick. Set it aside while you mix up the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, water, coconut extract, and vegetable oil. Stir until the mixture is just moistened, then beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about two minutes. This step helps ensure air is incorporated, creating a fluffy cake.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Soak the Cake

After baking, let the cake cool on a wire rack. While it’s still warm, poke holes all over the surface with a toothpick or fork. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of cream of coconut and 1/2 cup of milk, then pour this mixture over the warm cake. This soaking technique adds moisture and amplifies coconut flavor.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting it. Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off, so patience is key!

Making the Coconut Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Beat the Butter

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until it becomes soft and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Sugar

Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, continuing to beat on medium speed. Remember to stop the mixer periodically to scrape down the bowl with a spatula, ensuring all the sugar is well incorporated.

Step 3: Mix in the Cream of Coconut

Once the butter and sugar blend together, gradually beat in the remaining 1/3 cup of cream of coconut. This gives your frosting a rich, delightful coconut flavor.

Step 4: Flavor the Frosting

Add coconut extract, starting with 1 teaspoon. Taste the frosting, and if you’d like a stronger flavor, add more. A little extract can go a long way, so adjust to your preference.

Toasting the Coconut

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Spread the Coconut

Spread the sweetened flaked coconut in a single, even layer on a cookie sheet.

Step 3: Toast the Coconut

Place the cookie sheet in the oven and toast the coconut for about 5-10 minutes. Stir it occasionally to ensure even browning, keeping a close eye as coconut can burn quickly.

Assembling the Cake

Step 1: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the coconut buttercream frosting evenly over the top.

Step 2: Add the Toasted Coconut

Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the frosting for added crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and share it with friends and family. They’ll be impressed by how moist and delicious it is!

Sweet Closing Thoughts

This easy toasted coconut cake is incredibly simple to make and a delight to eat. With its layers of coconut flavor and thick, creamy frosting, it is sure to become a beloved dessert in your home.

Whether you are an expert baker or just starting, this recipe will let you impress your loved ones with minimal effort. So gather your ingredients, follow these straightforward steps, and indulge in a slice of tropical paradise right in your kitchen!

Happy baking!