Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake

Name: Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Fresh blackberries for decoration

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Indulge in the tropical flavors of our Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake, a delightful dessert that combines the richness of coconut with the tartness of blackberries.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:58:27.524Z

This Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake is a luscious dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions, it combines moist layers of coconut cake with a creamy vanilla frosting and fresh blackberries.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect harmony of coconut and vanilla flavors
Fresh blackberries add a delightful tartness
Beautifully layered for an impressive presentation

      

A Tropical Delight

Our Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience that transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite. The combination of rich coconut and sweet vanilla creates a base that is both comforting and exotic. The addition of fresh blackberries not only elevates the flavor profile, but also adds a pop of color that makes this cake visually stunning.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself and your loved ones, this cake is the perfect choice. Its layers of moist cake and creamy frosting are sure to impress anyone who takes a slice. Plus, the ingredients are easily accessible, making it a feasible project for bakers of all skill levels.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake turns out perfectly, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can affect the texture and taste of your cake. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, especially when measuring flour and sugar.

It's also important to let your cakes cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, allowing you to achieve a beautifully layered look. If you're short on time, you can place the cakes in the refrigerator for a quick chill to speed up the cooling process.

Serving Suggestions

This Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake is delightful on its own, but you can also enhance the experience by pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy elements complement the cake’s flavors beautifully and provide a refreshing contrast to the tartness of the blackberries.

For an added touch, consider serving the cake with a blackberry compote drizzled on top or on the side. This not only enhances the blackberry flavor but also adds a lovely visual element that makes the dessert even more appealing. Your guests will love this thoughtful presentation!

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Fresh blackberries for decoration

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting the baking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, shredded coconut, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with fresh blackberries.

Let the cake sit for a little while before slicing to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage Tips

To keep your Coconut Vanilla Blackberry Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its freshness for about a week. Just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you decide to freeze the cake, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and then frost as desired for a delicious treat anytime.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and fruits! For instance, you can substitute raspberries or strawberries for blackberries, or even incorporate lime zest into the batter for a zesty twist. The coconut and vanilla provide a versatile base that pairs well with a variety of fruits.

For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of coconut extract to the frosting. This will intensify the coconut taste, making each bite even more indulgent. You can also add toasted coconut flakes on top of the frosting for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blackberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before decorating the cake.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

→ What can I use as a substitute for butter?

You can use a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil as a substitute for butter in this recipe.