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Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure the cakes come out easily after baking.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Sift the dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This will help create a tender cake texture.
- Add the eggs and extracts: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and coconut extract (if using). Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Alternate dry ingredients and coconut milk: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined after each addition. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the shredded coconut: Gently fold in the shredded coconut using a spatula. The coconut adds great texture and flavor to the cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Divide the cake batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and place them in the preheated oven.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed.
Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut Frosting
- Beat the butter: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter until soft and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and coconut milk: Mix in the vanilla extract and coconut milk. Add more coconut milk if the frosting is too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin. The frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to spread easily.
- Fold in the shredded coconut: Stir in the shredded coconut to give the frosting a bit of texture and flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Frost the first layer: Place one of the cooled cakes on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top of the first layer, smoothing it into an even layer.
- Add the second layer: Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to make sure the layers stick together.
- Frost the entire cake: Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top and sides of the entire cake to cover it completely.
- Add the finishing touches: Sprinkle the toasted coconut evenly over the top and sides of the cake for a crunchy, golden contrast. You can toast shredded coconut by placing it in a dry pan over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden brown.
Tips for the Perfect Scratch Coconut Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure to use room temperature butter and eggs. This ensures that the batter mixes together evenly, resulting in a smooth and airy cake.
- Toast the Coconut: Toasting the coconut for the garnish brings out its natural sweetness and adds an extra layer of flavor. Be sure to keep an eye on it while toasting, as it can burn quickly.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake.
- Customize the Frosting: If you love coconut, feel free to add extra shredded coconut to the frosting. You can also use cream cheese frosting if you prefer a tangy twist.
Conclusion: A Slice of Coconut Heaven
This Scratch Coconut Cake is the ultimate treat for coconut lovers. From its moist, fluffy texture to its rich coconut flavor and decadent coconut frosting, every bite is a tropical delight. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party, holiday gathering, or enjoying it as an afternoon treat with tea, this cake will surely become a favorite.
With its simple yet impressive ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this coconut cake recipe proves that homemade desserts are always worth the effort. Make this cake for your next special occasion or as a sweet indulgence, and let the coconut goodness shine through!
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and start baking this delightful Scratch Coconut Cake today—it’s sure to bring a little bit of tropical paradise to your kitchen! 🌴🍰
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