Coconut Dream Cake

Coconut Dream Cake clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag: My Easiest Recipe!

By Evelyn ThatcherMay 24, 2025

Table of Contents

Alright, let's dive into the delicious world of coconut cake ! have you ever craved a slice of sunshine? this easy coconut cake recipe is like a tropical vacation for your taste buds.

It starts with a simple boxed cake mix recipe , but trust me, the final result is anything but basic.

Think moist, flavourful and topped with a heavenly coconut cream cheese frosting .

From Boxed Mix to Bakery Worthy: The Coconut Dream Cake

This recipe isn't some ancient family secret. though it tastes like it could be. it's actually a clever way to elevate a humble white cake mix recipe into something truly special.

Using this quick cake recipe is perfect if you are short on time. it is the clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag perfect dessert to whip up for a party or a potluck.

This shredded coconut dessert is absolutely delightful. this recipe makes one beautiful cake, enough to feed about 12 people. sharing is optional!

So why should you make this moist coconut cake ? honestly, it’s all about that flavour. the subtle coconut infusion, combined with the tangy cream cheese frosting , is utterly irresistible.

The dessert recipes do not get any better than this. plus, everyone loves a good homemade cake , right? we're talking major comfort food vibes with a touch of elegance.

Coconutty Goodness and Easy Baking

One of the best things about baking with coconut is the subtle sweetness and texture it adds. it’s like a little bit of paradise in every bite.

This tropical cake recipe offers a comforting taste. it also keeps the cake super moist. this recipe shines thanks to simplicity and flavour.

Get ready for compliments, because this cake is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

Okay, alright, let's dive into what you need to make this easy coconut cake a reality! we're talking ingredients and gear.

Don't worry, nothing too fancy. this coconut cake recipe uses a boxed cake mix recipe , so it’s super manageable.

Get ready for the best coconut cake you've ever tasted, and it will be a moist coconut cake , promise! this cake is great for a birthday cake recipe !

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Okay, so let's get this straight. For the cake recipe itself, you'll need:

1 box (about 15-18oz or 425-510g ) of a white cake mix (not angel food, mind you!). The cake mix is the core to this quick cake recipe .
3 large egg whites.
1 cup ( 240ml ) of water.
½ cup ( 120ml ) of vegetable oil.

For our coconut cream cheese frosting , which is where the magic happens, gather:

16 tablespoons (2 sticks or 226g ) of unsalted butter. Make sure this is super soft. Like, leave-it-out-on-the-counter for-an-hour soft. Seriously!
4 ounces ( 113g ) of cream cheese, also softened.
5 cups (approx. 600g ) of confectioners' sugar (icing sugar, powdered sugar whatever you call it!).
2-3 tablespoons ( 30-45ml ) of milk.
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
¼ teaspoon of almond extract.

And finally, because it's a shredded coconut dessert , get:

1 cup (approx. 85g ) of shredded sweetened coconut for finishing.

Quality wise, focus on the butter and cream cheese. Proper softening of those two make a huge difference in your cream cheese frosting . They MUST be room temperature. Trust me.

Seasoning Notes

This coconut flavored cake is all about balance. vanilla is a must. almond extract gives it that "bakery style cake" vibe.

You know? it makes it a delicious coconut cake ! the essential spice combo is really just a good hit of vanilla extract.

If you don't have almond extract (no biggie!), you can totally leave it out. Or sub in a little more vanilla. No worries! Feel free to sprinkle in some coconut extract !

Equipment Needed

You don't need a fancy kitchen for this simple cake recipe . Here's the basic kit:

Two 8 inch round cake pans . (For an easy cake recipe this is a good size!)
Parchment paper.
A large mixing bowl and a whisk.
A rubber spatula or offset spatula.
Wire racks for cooling.
A serrated knife (for leveling the cakes).
A stand mixer (or electric hand mixer). A must for the best homemade cake .
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag A cake board or stand (optional, but makes it look purdy!).

Household alternative time: Don't have cake pans? Use oven safe bowls! No whisk? Use a fork! The important thing is to get baking, angelsoni! This is also a great recipe to get the kids involved, so think of this cake as one for baking with kids !

Okay, let's dive into making this coconut dream cake ! honestly, this recipe is so easy, it's practically foolproof. even if you're a total beginner in the kitchen, you can nail this.

We're talking bakery style deliciousness with minimal effort. trust me, your friends will think you've been secretly attending pastry school! and it all starts with that clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag .

..that tells us it's time to bake.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

First things first, let's get organised. essential mise en place is key. gather all your ingredients. soften the butter and cream cheese way in advance.

Honestly, i usually forget and end up microwaving them, which is a total cheat. get those cake pans ready: grease 'em, flour 'em.

I'm lazy, so i use baking spray. line the bottom with parchment for easy cake release. then, pop your oven on to 350° f ( 175° c) .

Safety first, yeah? don't be a donut use oven gloves.

step-by-step: Baking Bliss

Time for the magic! This recipe for an easy coconut cake is a total winner.

In a large bowl, chuck in your boxed cake mix recipe , egg whites, water, and oil. Give it a good whisk until it's smooth.
Divide the batter between your cake pans.
Bake for 20- 22 minutes . A toothpick should come out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Flip them onto wire racks to cool completely. You can use this time to make a quick dessert, or just chill out before the frosting part!
Level one cake with the serrated knife to sit flat as the base layer.
Whip up that coconut cream cheese frosting : beat butter until fluffy. Add cream cheese. Mix. Slowly add sugar, extracts, and milk.
Assemble the cake! Spread frosting on one layer, stack, and frost the whole thing.
Coat the entire cake with yummy shredded coconut dessert . Refrigerate to set, and boom, you have the best coconut cake .

Pro Tips for a Top-Tier Tropical Cake Recipe

Want to take your cake to the next level?

Toasted Coconut is a Game Changer. Seriously, it adds so much flavor. A secret ingredient for the most irresistible coconut cake .
Don't Overbake! Overbaked cake is dry. No one wants that. Look for that clean toothpick!
make-ahead Magic: Bake the cakes a day ahead! Wrap them tightly and store at room temperature. Frost the next day.

honestly, that coconut flavored cake it will be like a trip to the tropics! Baking a homemade cake is easier than you think.

Right then, let's talk all things coconut dream cake! it's a simple recipe, yeah, but the devil's in the detail, innit? we're talking about making this easy coconut cake sing .

Think bake off worthy.

Recipe Notes

Listen up, 'cause these are the bits that'll turn your boxed cake mix recipe into a moist coconut cake sensation! these are the deets that mean the difference between a 'meh' shredded coconut dessert and one that'll have everyone fighting over the last slice.

We're diving into the nitty gritty. baking with coconut can be tricky, but trust me! also, take a look at these tips and tricks from our team! click clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag .

Serving it Up Like a Pro

Plating and presentation ideas: forget just slapping a slice on a plate! elevate your dessert presentation , darling! think a dollop of whipped cream.

A few coconut shavings scattered artfully. a sprig of mint. even just a simple cake stand makes a difference. complementary sides or beverages: honestly, this tropical cake recipe goes with everything! but my fave is a strong cuppa or maybe a cheeky pina colada cake -inspired mocktail for the kids.

Vanilla ice cream? classic. fresh berries? divine.

Storage Savvy

Refrigeration guidelines: once you've got that coconut cream cheese frosting slathered on, pop the whole celebration cake into the fridge.

It'll keep for 3-4 days, easy. freezing options (if applicable): yep, you can freeze it! wrap slices individually in cling film then foil for up to 2 months.

Reheating instructions: just let it thaw in the fridge overnight. and bring to room temperature. honestly tastes as good as fresh!

Switch it Up! (But Keep it Coconutty)

Dietary adaptations: wanna make it gluten-free coconut cake ? no worries! use a gluten-free cake mix and check your frosting ingredients.

dairy-free coconut cake ? substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant based alternatives. vegan coconut cake ? same principle, but also check your cake mix and egg replacements! seasonal ingredient swaps: summer? top it with fresh mango or pineapple chunks for a truly tropical dessert recipe .

Winter? a dusting of cinnamon adds warmth.

Nosh rition Basics

Simplified nutrition information: okay, so cake calories aren't exactly health food. but hey, everything in moderation, right? each slice is roughly 400 calories.

Key health benefits: coconut does have some good fats, you know? and the joy you get from eating cake? that's definitely good for your mental health!

Look, dessert recipes can be intimidating, but this easy coconut cake is a breeze. whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned baker, you'll nail it.

So get your baking supplies , preheat that oven, and get ready to create something delicious. happy baking! this is the best coconut cake ! you can also get online cake decorating supplies and post it on your dessert blog ! what a delicious coconut cake !

Delicious Coconut Cake Recipe [kw]: Family s Secret To Baking Perfection

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Coconut Dream Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is actually better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator, covered, after the frosting has set. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Think of it as your own little Mary Berry "bake ahead" trick!

My cream cheese frosting is too soft. What did I do wrong?

Soft frosting is a common problem! The most likely culprit is that your butter or cream cheese wasn't cold enough. Make sure they're softened but still slightly cool to the touch. If it's already too soft, pop the frosting in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up before using.

A little chill can go a long way to get that perfectly spreadable texture, you know like when Goldilocks found the porridge that was "just right".

I don't have sweetened shredded coconut. Can I use unsweetened?

You can, but the cake will be less sweet overall. If using unsweetened coconut, consider adding a tablespoon or two of powdered sugar to the coconut before sprinkling it on the cake, or even brushing the cake with simple syrup before adding the coconut, like a true celebrity chef.

Toasting the coconut will also bring out more of its natural sweetness!

Can I use a different cake mix for this clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag recipe?

While a white cake mix is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can experiment with other flavors like yellow cake or even a coconut cake mix to really amp up the coconutty goodness! Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Just be sure to avoid angel food cake mix, as the texture is vastly different and won't work well with this recipe, which may prove to be a kitchen "soggy bottom" moment.

How should I store leftover Coconut Dream Cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and prevent the frosting from drying out. Take it out about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Think of it as giving your cake a little spa day before it's enjoyed!

Is there a way to make this Coconut Dream Cake healthier?

While it's a treat, there are some things you can do! You could use a sugar-free cake mix, a light cream cheese alternative, and a sugar substitute in the frosting. Also, using unsweetened coconut and reducing the amount of oil in the cake mix (sometimes applesauce can be used as a substitute) can cut down on sugar and fat.

Keep in mind this will change the flavor and texture somewhat, but it's a good compromise if you're looking to lighten things up. Though, even with healthy substitutions, it should still be considered an occasional treat in your baking repertoire, like a Mr. Motivator workout session, rather than an everyday routine.

Coconut Dream Cake

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Preparation time:15 Mins

Cooking time:22 Mins

Servings:12 servings

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8 inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper circles.
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, egg whites, water, and oil. Whisk until smooth.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes before inverting them onto the racks to cool completely.
Once cooled, use a serrated knife to level the top of one cake layer for the base.
In a stand mixer, beat softened butter until light and fluffy. Add softened cream cheese and beat until smooth. Gradually add confectioners' sugar, mixing on low speed at first, then increasing to medium speed until fully incorporated. Add extracts and milk, beating until smooth and creamy. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, if needed.
Place one cake layer on a cake board or stand. Spread with frosting. Top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Generously sprinkle shredded coconut all over the frosted cake, gently pressing it into the frosting.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.