Best Coconut Cake : Moist & Tropical Portuguese Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with tropical flavor, this Best Coconut Cake Recipe from Scratch will instantly become a favorite in your kitchen. Inspired by traditional Portuguese desserts, particularly the beloved Bolos de Coco, this cake delivers a light yet rich crumb, plenty of coconut flavor, and a delightfully golden crust that makes each bite unforgettable.

Whether you’re exploring new cake recipes from scratch or just want a moist, homemade dessert that feels like a trip to the islands, this recipe has it all. And the best part? It’s easy, quick, and doesn’t rely on complicated steps or fancy equipment.

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Why This Is the Best Coconut Cake Recipe You’ll Ever Bake

What makes this coconut cake recipe stand out from the rest is its simplicity, texture, and deeply rooted flavor. Made entirely from scratch, it uses pantry staples and real shredded coconut to create a cake that’s soft, moist, and beautifully aromatic.

Here’s why it’s the best:

• Naturally moist and fluffy, thanks to the right balance of fat and flour
• Rich coconut flavor in every bite—without being overwhelming
• Minimal effort, maximum reward
• Perfect for any occasion: breakfast, dessert, or afternoon tea
• A beloved tradition in both Portuguese and Brazilian desserts

If you’ve been searching for the best coconut desserts to impress your family or guests, this cake is your answer.

What Are Portuguese Coconut Cakes (Bolos de Coco)?

Bolos de Coco, or Portuguese coconut cakes, are a traditional treat often served in Portuguese homes during gatherings, holidays, or simply with a cup of coffee. These mini cakes, typically baked in muffin tins or ramekins, are tender, sweet, and soaked with coconut milk or syrup for added richness.

While this recipe transforms the concept into a single, easy-to-slice cake, it retains the charm and simplicity of the original version. Its connection to Brazilian desserts is also notable, as similar coconut cakes are found throughout Brazil, often with slightly different spices or soaking syrups.

This cake is a celebration of coconut in all its glory—soft, comforting, and undeniably tropical.

Ingredients for the Best Coconut Cake Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this luscious cake from scratch. These measurements yield one 9-inch round cake or about 8–10 servings.

Cake Batter:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (180ml) coconut milk (unsweetened)
• 1 cup (80g) unsweetened shredded coconut

Optional Syrup (for soaking):

• ½ cup (120ml) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp (25g) sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Ingredient Notes:

• Use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture and taste.
• Shredded coconut can be finely or coarsely grated depending on preference.
• You can substitute part of the flour with almond flour for a richer crumb.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for This Coconut Dessert

No fancy tools required! Just grab:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch cake pan (round or square)
• Wire cooling rack
• Small saucepan (for optional syrup)
• Toothpick or cake tester

A parchment-lined pan will make it easier to remove the cake cleanly after baking.

How to Make Coconut Cake from Scratch – Step-by-Step Guide

This from-scratch coconut cake is as easy as mix, pour, and bake. Follow these simple steps for perfect results.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3–4 minutes with an electric mixer. This step builds air into the batter for a soft texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk.

Step 5: Fold in the Coconut

Using a spatula, gently fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Optional Coconut Syrup Soak

While the cake is still warm, gently heat the syrup ingredients in a saucepan until dissolved. Slowly spoon or brush the syrup over the top of the cake to add extra moisture and coconut flavor.

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Baking Tips for a Perfect Coconut Cake Every Time

Here are a few tips to ensure your cake turns out just right:

• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and even baking
• Don’t overmix the batter after adding flour—this can lead to a dense texture
• Check your oven temp with an oven thermometer to avoid under- or over-baking
• Avoid opening the oven door during baking—wait until at least 25 minutes in

How to Make This Cake Extra Moist and Tropical

For an even richer and more tropical version:

• Add a coconut milk syrup soak as described above
• Use toasted coconut flakes on top after baking
• Substitute ¼ cup of the butter with coconut oil for added flavor
• Add a spoonful of pineapple preserves to the batter for a fruity twist

These little upgrades can turn a humble cake into a tropical dessert showpiece.

Serving Ideas for This Tropical Dessert

This Portuguese coconut cake is delightful on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions:

• Dust with powdered sugar before serving
• Serve with a side of fresh mango or pineapple slices
• Pair with coconut yogurt or whipped cream
• Enjoy warm with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk
• Add a dollop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish

It also makes a lovely gift or party contribution—wrap it up in parchment and ribbon for a homemade touch.

Storage Tips: Keeping Coconut Cake Fresh and Delicious

To keep your cake moist and delicious:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 1 month

If using the syrup soak, it’s best kept in the fridge to preserve freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Coconut Cake

Avoid these pitfalls for baking success:

• Too much flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off—don’t scoop directly
• Overbaking: Keep a close eye after 30 minutes to prevent a dry texture
• Skipping the syrup soak: It adds flavor and moisture—don’t skip if you want the ultimate result
• Using sweetened coconut without adjusting sugar: Can lead to an overly sweet cake—reduce sugar if needed

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Coconut Cake FAQ

Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, but reduce the sugar in the batter slightly to balance it out.

Can I use coconut flour?
Not directly—it behaves very differently from all-purpose flour. If you want to experiment, only replace a portion.

Is this cake gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend with success.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut oil instead of butter and a plant-based milk. Just ensure it’s full-fat for the right texture.

What’s the best coconut milk to use?
Full-fat canned coconut milk is best. Avoid “light” or watered-down versions.

Other Portuguese and Coconut Dessert Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this tropical treat, you’ll love these other ideas:

• Baba de Camelo – a silky Portuguese caramel mousse
• Pão de Ló – light and fluffy sponge cake
• Coconut Brigadeiros – Brazilian coconut truffles
• Coconut Rice Pudding – creamy and aromatic
• Baked Pineapple and Coconut Bars – fruity and chewy

These recipes celebrate the richness of coconut recipes, and many are rooted in traditional Portuguese dessert recipes and Brazilian desserts.

Call to Action: Try and Share the Best Coconut Cake Recipe from Scratch

Now that you’ve found the best coconut cake recipe from scratch, it’s time to bring it to life in your own kitchen. With its tender crumb, tropical aroma, and homemade simplicity, this cake is sure to win hearts—whether served at a celebration or savored on a quiet afternoon.

If you bake it, don’t forget to share a photo, leave a comment, and tag us online! And for more coconut desserts and traditional cake recipes from scratch, be sure to subscribe to our blog. There’s always something sweet baking here.

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