Indulge in a taste of tropical paradise with our delectable recipe for The Best Coconut Layer Cake. Moist and fluffy layers of coconut-flavored cake are sandwiched between creamy coconut frosting, creating a dessert that is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this coconut cake is a delightful choice that will transport your taste buds to a sunny island getaway.
**The Best Coconut Layer Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon coconut extract
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup shredded coconut, sweetened
**For the Coconut Frosting:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon coconut extract
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the coconut extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
6. Stir in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
10. To prepare the coconut frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, coconut extract, and coconut milk, mixing until smooth and creamy.
11. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers, stacking them on top of each other.
12. Use the rest of the frosting to generously cover the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle the top with toasted shredded coconut for a decorative finish.
Serve this luscious Coconut Layer Cake at your next gathering and watch it disappear in moments. The combination of moist coconut cake layers and creamy coconut frosting is a true delight for the senses. Whether you are a coconut lover or simply want to add a taste of the tropics to your dessert table, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the sweet and nutty flavors of this homemade treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!