Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is a nostalgic dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings, summer picnics, and holiday celebrations. This delightful cake is a true Southern classic, often gracing the tables of special occasions and Sunday dinners. There’s something incredibly comforting about the moist layers of cake enveloped in a rich, creamy coconut frosting. It’s no wonder that Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake has earned a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere. With its heritage tracing back to the early 1900s, this cake has stood the test of time, cherished for its simplicity and the way it brings people together over a slice of sweetness.
What Is Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake
Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is a luscious dessert that features layers of soft, fluffy cake infused with the tropical flavor of coconut. Each bite is a delightful experience, with a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. What sets this cake apart from other coconut desserts, like coconut cream pie or coconut macaroons, is its multi-layered structure and the generous coating of coconut frosting that blankets the entire cake. The combination of cake and frosting creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible treat for coconut enthusiasts.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to make, even for beginners!
- A showstopper dessert that impresses guests.
- Perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.
- Rich, sweet flavor that coconut lovers adore.
How Does It Taste?
When you take a bite of Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake, you’re greeted with a harmonious blend of sweetness and creaminess. The cake itself is lightly sweetened, allowing the rich coconut flavor to shine through without being overwhelming. The frosting adds a luscious creaminess that enhances the cake’s moist texture, while the shredded coconut sprinkled on top provides a delightful chewiness. Together, these elements create a cake that is both comforting and indulgent, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
The key ingredients in Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake not only contribute to its delicious flavor but also offer some health benefits:
- Coconut: High in fiber and healthy fats, coconut can aid in digestion and promote heart health.
- Eggs: Packed with protein, eggs support muscle health and can help keep you feeling full.
- Butter: While indulgent, butter provides essential vitamins like A and D, and helps to create a rich flavor.
- Flour: A staple in baking, flour provides carbohydrates that give you energy.
So, grab your mixing bowls and get ready to create a dessert that is not only delicious but also rooted in tradition with Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of our cake, giving it structure and a nice crumb.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a moist texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness and flavor to the cake.
- 1 cup coconut milk – Infuses the cake with a delicious coconut flavor and moisture.
- 3 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cake’s fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise for a light and airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works in conjunction with baking powder to ensure proper leavening.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 2 cups shredded coconut – Provides the signature coconut flavor and texture.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 inch baking dish or two 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free milk.
- Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
- Incorporate crushed pineapple for added moisture and a fruity twist.
- Use sweetened shredded coconut for a sweeter cake, or adjust the sugar accordingly.
How to Make Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake and helps the cake rise properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish or two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make for easy removal later.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step aerates the flour and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You should see a pale, creamy texture that has increased in volume.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract. The batter should now look smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the coconut milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
Step 7: Fold in the Coconut
Gently fold in the shredded coconut using a rubber spatula. This will evenly distribute the coconut without deflating the batter.
Step 8: Pour Batter into Baking Dish
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish or divide it evenly between the two cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
Step 10: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
What to Serve With
This Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake pairs wonderfully with a tropical fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For drinks, consider serving it alongside a refreshing iced tea or a coconut-infused mocktail.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Don’t overmix the batter; this can lead to a dense cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- For a festive touch, garnish the finished cake with additional toasted coconut flakes on top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the sifting of dry ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter.
- Using cold ingredients can affect the batter’s consistency and the cake’s rise.
- Overbaking will result in a dry cake, so keep an eye on the time.
- Not allowing the cake to cool properly before frosting can cause the frosting to melt.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Make sure to cover it well to maintain freshness.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy a slice warm, simply microwave it for 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut? Yes, just make sure to finely shred it for even distribution.
- What frosting pairs best with coconut cake? A classic cream cheese frosting or coconut buttercream works wonderfully.
- Can I freeze the cake? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Is this cake suitable for special occasions? Yes, its delightful flavor and presentation make it perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration!
Nutritional Info
This Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake contains approximately 350 calories per slice (1/12 of the cake), with around 20g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein. Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that brings back memories of simpler times while tantalizing your taste buds, then the Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is an absolute must-try. This cake captures the essence of nostalgia with its moist layers and rich coconut flavor, making it a delightful centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, the Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a delicious masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Happy baking!
Tasty Old Fashioned Coconut Cake
A nostalgic dessert featuring layers of fluffy coconut cake with rich coconut frosting, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded coconut
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Step 2
Grease baking dish or cake pans. -
Step 3
Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. -
Step 4
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. -
Step 5
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. -
Step 6
Combine wet and dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk. -
Step 7
Fold in shredded coconut. -
Step 8
Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth the top. -
Step 9
Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. -
Step 10
Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.