Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 cup shredded coconut
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons coconut extract
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut for topping
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure a smooth release after baking.
- Creating the Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is crucial for the texture. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with coconut milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture to maintain the cake’s structure. Stir in the vanilla and coconut extracts for that tropical flavor profile, then fold in the shredded coconut to complete the batter.
- Baking: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Frosting: For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and coconut extract, beating until fluffy. Once the cake has cooled, apply the frosting and sprinkle with shredded coconut for that final tropical touch.
Notes
Tips for the Ultimate Cake
- Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and cream cheese, are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter and frosting.
- Baking Pans: Using parchment paper in your pans can add an extra layer of non-stick security.
- Coconut Milk: Shake the can of coconut milk well before measuring to mix the cream and liquid.