Vanilla Coconut Cake with Toasted Flakes

Name: Vanilla Coconut Cake with Toasted Flakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup coconut milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons coconut milk; 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Vanilla Coconut Cake with Toasted Flakes, a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:00:20.825Z

This Vanilla Coconut Cake is a celebration of tropical flavors and creamy textures. The toasted coconut flakes add a delightful crunch, making every bite a luxurious experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor complemented by coconut sweetness
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any festive gathering

      

The Perfect Celebration Cake

A Vanilla Coconut Cake with Toasted Flakes is not just a dessert; it's a centerpiece for any celebration. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a wedding, or a festive gathering, this cake will impress your guests with its delightful taste and beautiful presentation. The combination of rich vanilla and sweet coconut creates an indulgent flavor that everyone will love.

This cake is versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can serve it as a simple afternoon treat or dress it up for more formal events. The toasted coconut flakes add a crunchy texture, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, its light and fluffy texture ensures that it won't weigh you down, leaving room for seconds!

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Vanilla Coconut Cake, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps in creating a smooth batter and ensures even baking. Use high-quality coconut milk for a richer flavor, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands to find your favorite.

When measuring flour, be sure to spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake, which we want to avoid. Additionally, be mindful of your oven’s temperature; an oven thermometer can help ensure that you're baking at the correct temperature for perfectly baked layers.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

After your cake is assembled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but be aware that the texture might change slightly. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

For an extra special touch, serve the cake with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh tropical fruits like pineapple or mango also pair beautifully with the coconut flavor, adding a refreshing twist to each slice. Your guests will be raving about this cake long after the last crumb has been enjoyed!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Vanilla Coconut Cake:

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons coconut milk

For Garnish

1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake and assemble your Vanilla Coconut Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, coconut milk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together. Add the vanilla extract and coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides.

Garnish

Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the frosted cake for decoration.

Enjoy your beautifully decorated Vanilla Coconut Cake!

Nutritional Information

While indulging in a delicious Vanilla Coconut Cake, it's good to be mindful of its nutritional aspects. Each slice provides a satisfying balance of carbohydrates and fats, making it a delightful treat in moderation. With the inclusion of coconut milk and shredded coconut, this cake also offers dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.

If you're looking to lighten up the recipe, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar in the frosting. Additionally, using a plant-based butter can make this cake dairy-free, catering to a wider audience without sacrificing flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this Vanilla Coconut Cake recipe! For a tropical twist, add crushed pineapple to the batter, or incorporate lime zest for a zesty flavor kick. You can also swap the vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a new dimension to the cake's flavor profile.

If you want to make a layered cake, consider filling the layers with a fruity jam or a cream cheese frosting for added richness. Each variation can bring a unique flair to your cake, making it a signature dessert for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened coconut milk?

Yes, unsweetened coconut milk will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.