Delicious Old Fashioned Coconut Cake

The smell of my grandmother’s old fashioned coconut cake filled the kitchen. It meant a special occasion was coming. Each bite was like a trip back to family gatherings, where this dessert brought us together.

Today, I’m sharing this loved recipe with you. It’s a Southern delight that offers comfort and indulgence.

This old-fashioned coconut cake shows the lasting charm of traditional baking. It has rich, moist layers and a creamy 7-minute frosting. The frosting is covered in sweet shredded coconut, making it a classic coconut dessert.

It takes you back to a time of family and memories. Get ready to enjoy the moist coconut indulgence of this vintage cake recipe. It’s a traditional southern cake that will please your taste buds and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Key Takeaways

  • Authentic old-fashioned coconut cake recipe with a moist, fluffy texture
  • Decadent 7-minute frosting and generous coating of sweet shredded coconut
  • A beloved classic Southern dessert that captures the essence of traditional baking
  • Transports you to a bygone era of family gatherings and cherished memories
  • Satisfies the craving for a truly indulgent, moist coconut cake experience

Grandma’s Treasured Coconut Cake

A Family Favorite for Generations

This coconut cake recipe has been loved for over 83 years. It’s a family tradition passed down through generations. The moist, fluffy layers and rich coconut topping make it a true delight.

grandmother's coconut cake

Moist and Fluffy Coconut Indulgence

This family recipe is made with care and old techniques. It has a soft, fluffy texture that’s irresistible. The coconut flavor is perfect, making it a cherished Southern tradition.

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal Time
35 minutes22 minutes57 minutes

Making this classic coconut cake is a labor of love. Every step is done with care to get the perfect texture and flavor. From grating fresh coconut to blending the batter, every detail is crafted for absolute coconut perfection.

Classic Southern Cake Bliss

Step into the heart of the South and experience the timeless allure of the traditional coconut cake. This old-fashioned Southern dessert embodies the rich baking traditions that have been passed down through generations. It offers a taste of classic Southern cake bliss. Each decadent slice transports you to a cozy Southern kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked coconut confections lingers in the air.

Crafted with care and attention to detail, this classic Southern dessert showcases the region’s signature flavors. From the moist, tender crumb of the old-fashioned Southern cake to the creamy, coconut-infused frosting, every component of this traditional coconut cake pays homage to the Southern baking traditions that have stood the test of time.

“This coconut cake is a true slice of Southern comfort, a delightful indulgence that transports you to the charm of a bygone era.”

Whether served at a family gathering or a special occasion, this classic Southern dessert is sure to captivate the senses and delight the palate. Savor the nostalgia of old-fashioned Southern cake traditions with every bite of this traditional coconut cake, a testament to the enduring legacy of Southern baking.

classic Southern dessert

From-Scratch Baking Delight

Making the perfect homemade coconut cake from scratch lets you control the coconut flavors. The cake layers get just the right coconut extract. The frosting, made with coconut milk, is creamy and rich. A sweet shredded coconut topping brings it all together, creating a true from-scratch baking delight.

Perfectly Balanced Coconut Flavors

This coconut cake recipe has been shared 389 times and got a 5-star rating from 1 vote. It’s easy to make, with a prep time of 30 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes. It serves 12 people, with the right amount of ingredients for a moist and flavorful cake:

  • 1/2 cup of butter
  • 1 1/2 cups of sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 cups of cake flour, sifted
  • 4 teaspoons of baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup of shredded coconut

Baking the cake at 375°F for 25 minutes gets the coconut flavor just right. The toasted shredded coconut topping adds crunch, making it a from-scratch baking delight.

homemade coconut cake

Decadent No-Fail 7-Minute Frosting

Discover the secret to an unforgettable coconut cake with the decadent no-fail 7-minute frosting. This frosting is made from butter, sugar, and coconut milk. It adds a rich, coconut flavor that matches the cake’s tenderness perfectly.

This frosting is incredibly easy to make and loved by all. In just minutes, you can whip up a batch. It turns your coconut cake into a luxurious treat.

IngredientAmount
Unsalted butter1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar2 cups
Large eggs5

This 7-minute frosting has a smooth texture and a deep coconut taste. It’s the ideal match for your homemade coconut cake. Let this frosting elevate your dessert to new levels of deliciousness.

“A grandmama’s homemade coconut cake with 7-minute frosting is highlighted as a cherished family favorite.”

Ingredient Breakdown

Making an old-fashioned coconut cake is all about the ingredients. Each part, from the coconut cake components to the baking tips, is important. They help get the perfect texture and flavor.

Essential Coconut Cake Components

This classic Southern dessert has a few key ingredients. They work together to make a moist, fluffy, and coconut-rich cake:

  • Cake flour: 2 and 1/2 cups (285g) for a soft, fine crumb
  • Egg whites: 5 large for a light and airy cake structure
  • Unsweetened coconut milk: 1 cup (240ml) for moisture and coconut flavor
  • Sweetened shredded coconut: 1 cup (80g) for texture and sweetness
  • Coconut extract: 2 teaspoons to enhance the coconut essence

Using room-temperature ingredients is key. It helps them blend and bond better during baking.

By balancing these ingredients, you can make a moist, fluffy, and coconut-rich cake. It’s so good, your guests will want more.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this coconut cake recipe is easy, thanks to clear instructions. You’ll cream butter and sugar, whip egg whites, and layer the cake. Each step is detailed to make your coconut cake moist, fluffy, and full of coconut flavor. With some care, you can make this Southern classic at home.

After cooling, assemble the coconut cake. Spread coconut filling between layers and top with 7-minute coconut frosting. Sprinkle toasted sweetened shredded coconut on top for a beautiful finish.

Follow these steps to make a coconut cake that will wow everyone. Enjoy its moist texture and delicious coconut taste in every bite!

Coconut Cake Decorating Tips

Make your homemade coconut cake look amazing with a few easy steps. After frosting, press shredded coconut onto the sides for a beautiful look. Toasting the coconut first adds a richer flavor and a golden color. With some careful touches, your coconut cake will be a hit at any event.

Stunning Presentation Ideas

Here are some ways to make your coconut cake stand out:

  • Lightly toast the shredded coconut before pressing it onto the cake. This adds a delightful crunch and caramelized flavor.
  • Arrange fresh coconut flakes or toasted coconut in a decorative pattern on top of the cake, such as concentric circles or a herringbone design.
  • Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar over the top of the cake for a snow-like effect.
  • Garnish the cake with fresh tropical flowers, such as hibiscus or orchids, for a bright and festive touch.
  • Create a coconut “ribbon” by pressing a thin layer of shredded coconut around the base of the cake.

With a few decorative touches, your coconut cake will be the highlight of any dessert table.

old fashioned coconut cake

Indulge in the timeless charm of an old-fashioned coconut cake. It’s a true classic that has delighted generations. This cake has soft, moist layers and a decadent coconut-infused topping. It captures the essence of a beloved traditional dessert.

Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, this cake is a delightful trip down memory lane. It evokes the comforting nostalgia of grandma’s kitchen.

The cake’s irresistible texture comes from cake flour, which gives it a tender crumb. The batter includes unsalted butter, sugar, eggs, and creamy coconut milk. This creates a harmonious balance of flavors.

The buttercream frosting is made with unsalted butter, confectioner’s sugar, and sour cream. It provides a rich, smooth canvas for the shredded coconut on top.

Baked at 350°F for about 35-40 minutes, this cake can be prepared in advance and frozen for up to a month. It’s a convenient and stress-free dessert option. With its stunning presentation and timeless taste, this cake is a true embodiment of traditional Southern baking.

IngredientAmount
Cake Flour2 1/4 cups (281g)
Unsalted Butter1 cup (227g)
Granulated Sugar1 1/2 cups (300g)
Eggs4 large
Coconut Milk1 cup (240ml)
Confectioner’s Sugar5 1/2 to 6 cups (622g to 678g)
Sour Cream1/2 cup (120g)
Shredded Coconut2 cups (170g)

This vintage coconut cake is a true classic. It will delight your senses and transport you to the warm and comforting world of traditional Southern baking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Keeping Your Coconut Cake Fresh

To keep your coconut cake moist and fluffy, store it right. You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for two days. Or, refrigerate it for up to a week. For even longer, freeze individual slices for three months.

Before serving, let the cake warm up to room temperature. This way, you’ll enjoy its coconut flavor and texture fully. These tips help you enjoy this Southern classic for longer.

Storing your coconut cake correctly is key. Whether at room temperature or in the fridge, follow these steps. This way, you can enjoy the cake’s moist, coconut taste whenever you want.

Print

Delicious Old Fashioned Coconut Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 4 reviews

Classic Southern coconut cake with fluffy layers and traditional 7-minute frosting. This old-fashioned recipe creates a cloud-like cake covered in fresh coconut.

  • Author: Esme Baker
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Additional Time: 0 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: VegetarianDiet

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cake flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 5 egg whites
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon coconut extract
  • Fresh grated coconut
  • Ingredients for 7-minute frosting

Instructions

  1. Sift dry ingredients together
  2. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form
  3. Mix wet ingredients separately
  4. Combine all carefully
  5. Bake in prepared pans
  6. Make 7-minute frosting
  7. Stack layers with frosting
  8. Cover entire cake with coconut

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 462
  • Sugar: 40
  • Sodium: 286
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 14
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 62
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 6
  • Cholesterol: 105

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FAQ

What makes this old-fashioned coconut cake recipe special?

This coconut cake recipe has been loved for generations. It comes from the author’s grandmother. The moist crumb and rich coconut topping make every bite special.

How does this coconut cake embody the rich baking traditions of the South?

This cake is a true Southern dessert. It captures the essence of Southern baking. It takes you back to the charm of a Southern kitchen.

What are the key ingredients that contribute to the perfect texture and flavor of this coconut cake?

The cake’s appeal comes from quality ingredients. Real coconut extract, butter and oil, sour cream, and whipped egg whites make it moist. The sweet shredded coconut on top is the final touch.

How can I ensure my old-fashioned coconut cake turns out perfectly moist and flavorful?

Making this cake is easy with clear instructions. From creaming butter and sugar to assembling layers, each step is detailed. This ensures a moist, fluffy cake with real coconut flavor.

How can I elevate the presentation of my homemade coconut cake?

To enhance your cake’s look, follow simple decorating tips. Coat the sides with shredded coconut immediately after frosting. Toasting the coconut adds flavor and a golden hue.

How can I ensure my old-fashioned coconut cake stays fresh and delicious?

To keep your cake fresh, store it properly. It can stay at room temperature in an airtight container for two days. Refrigerate for up to a week. Freeze individual slices for up to three months.

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