Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamt of a dessert that feels like biting into a sweet, airy cloud, then the Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe is about to become your new baking obsession. Imagine tender layers of coconut-infused cake wrapped in silky, cloud-like frosting, and finished with a delicate snowfall of toasted coconut. This cake is the perfect balance of rich flavor and light, melt-in-your-mouth texture—ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or simply indulging your coconut cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you every step of the way, making it easy to create a show-stopping treat that’s guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in this Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe brings something special to the table, from the lush, creamy coconut milk to the rich butter and eggs, and of course, that irresistible coconut topping. You don’t need a mile-long shopping list for this cake—just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients that, together, create pure magic.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure and gives it that soft, tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Guarantees a light, fluffy lift as the cakes bake.
• Salt: Enhances and balances out the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a velvety base to the cake layers.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps achieve the perfect cake texture.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together, adding moisture and structure.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and adds a classic aroma.
• Coconut extract: Delivers that dreamy tropical note essential for a real coconut cloud experience.
• Coconut milk: Moistens the cake and infuses every bite with a soft, coconut flavor.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whips up into a light, dreamy frosting base.
• Cream cheese: Offers a slight tang and stability to the whipped frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without any grittiness.
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Provides the final snowy finish—toast it for extra flavor, or leave it fresh for ultimate softness.

How to Make Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when your batter is done. Line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides—this guarantees easy release and pristine cake layers every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the leavening is distributed evenly, helping your Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe turn out light, fluffy, and evenly risen.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar, Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which adds essential air to your cake. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finish by stirring in both vanilla and coconut extracts for deep, fragrant flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, alternate adding the dry ingredients and the coconut milk to your butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry. This gentle alternation ensures a smooth, even batter. Try not to overmix—just blend until combined, so your cake turns out ultra-tender.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the silky batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to finish cooling completely.

Step 6: Make the Cloud-Like Frosting

While your cakes cool, turn your attention to the heavenly frosting. Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks—this is what gives the frosting its ethereal texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, adding vanilla and coconut extracts for flavor.

Step 7: Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer onto your serving platter and spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Set the second cake layer above, then coat the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Take your shredded coconut—toast it gently for extra depth or keep it soft—and press it all over the cake for that signature, cloud-like finish.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

For the perfect texture and flavor, let your masterpiece chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps the Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe set beautifully and makes for picture-perfect slices.

How to Serve Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe

Garnishes

The beauty of Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe is in its playful finish, so don’t hold back on those last touches! A gentle shower of extra shredded coconut, curls of white chocolate, or even a scatter of edible flowers can make your cake all the more inviting. If you toasted your coconut, sprinkle a little more on top for a golden, nutty hint that guests won’t be able to resist.

Side Dishes

This dreamy cake shines alongside light, fresh accompaniments. Pair it with a zesty fruit salad brimming with pineapple and mango to echo the tropical flavors, or offer a scoop of tangy raspberry sorbet for a pretty contrast. Even a tall glass of iced coconut milk or a pot of fragrant herbal tea will take your dessert table to the next level.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe an event all its own by serving it in tall, elegant slices or cutting smaller, bite-sized squares for a dessert buffet. For special occasions, layer the cake in clear mason jars or trifle glasses, adding extra frosting and coconut between each layer for a stunning visual treat. However you slice it, let your creativity shine!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover your cake tightly with plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container in the fridge. The cake will stay beautifully moist and flavorful for up to 4 days—just be sure to keep it sealed so the coconut doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe freezes surprisingly well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature, but if you prefer a slightly softer frosting, let your slice sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. There’s no need for microwave reheating, as the texture is light and luscious straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different size cake pan?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that changing the pan size may affect your bake time. If you use smaller pans, check for doneness a little earlier or, for a sheet cake version, adjust as needed. The essence of the Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe adapts well to all sorts of shapes.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Definitely! Substitute plant-based butter, a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and whip chilled coconut cream in place of the heavy cream. Just be sure to use the full-fat versions for the best flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have coconut extract?

No coconut extract? No problem. While it adds plenty of aroma, you can still achieve a delicious coconut note using just the coconut milk and topping—the flavor will be a little subtler, but still heavenly.

Is it necessary to toast the coconut for the topping?

Toasting is totally optional but highly recommended if you want an added toasty flavor and more texture contrast. If you prefer a purely soft, cloud-like finish, simply keep the coconut un-toasted.

Can I make the cake layers ahead?

Yes! Bake the cake layers up to two days in advance, cool them thoroughly, and wrap tightly with plastic. Store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and frost your Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe is more than just another dessert—it’s pure, dreamy indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply treating yourself, you’ll find plenty to love in every sweet, coconut-kissed forkful. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade cake that’s as pretty as it is delicious!

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