If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s light, fluffy, and packed with rich coconut flavor, this Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s like biting into a slice of heaven—soft, airy layers of cake topped with a cloud of creamy frosting and sweet coconut flakes.
This cake is perfect for spring gatherings, holiday dinners, or anytime you want to impress guests with a classic Southern-style treat. Whether you’re a fan of coconut sheet cakes or just discovering the joy of coconut desserts, this recipe is easy to make, beautifully textured, and guaranteed to wow your tastebuds.
Table of Contents
Why This Coconut Cake Recipe Is a Must-Bake for Coconut Lovers
There are plenty of coconut cake recipes out there, but this one stands out because of its unique texture and perfectly balanced flavor. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Feather-light crumb thanks to whipped egg whites
- Coconut in every layer—from the batter to the frosting
- Perfectly sweet, not overpowering
- A show-stopping dessert with minimal effort
- Easy to adapt into cupcakes or a coconut sheet cake
If you love yummy sweets that are moist and flavorful, you’ll also enjoy this refreshing peach sorbet or a fresh peach pie for fruit lovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Coconut Cloud Cake
To make this dreamy coconut cloud cake, gather the following:
Cake:
- 2 cups cake flour, sifted
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 egg whites
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Frosting:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, for topping
Want another creamy dessert idea? Try these indulgent fried strawberry cheesecake sandwiches for a decadent bite.
How to Make Coconut Cloud Cake – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans (or a 9×13 for sheet cake). Line with parchment for easy release.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Cream the Butter, Oil, and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the butter, oil, and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Extracts
Add the egg whites one at a time, beating well. Stir in coconut and vanilla extracts.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, then gently fold in the shredded coconut.
Step 6: Bake
Divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
Let the cakes cool completely. While cooling, prepare the frosting by whipping the cream cheese, sugar, and extracts until fluffy. Fold in whipped cream and frost the cooled cake.
Top generously with shredded coconut and serve chilled.
Looking for a cozy breakfast option before dessert? Check out this cream cheese hashbrown casserole for a savory start.
Baking Tips for Perfect Coconut Sheet Cakes
- Don’t overmix the batter—keep it airy.
- Use cake flour for a finer, softer texture.
- Ensure egg whites are beaten until soft peaks form.
- Toast the coconut topping for extra crunch if desired.
- Let the cake cool fully before frosting to avoid melting.
Need more easy baking ideas? These easy cherry clafoutis are great for beginners.
Frosting Magic: Making That Light and Fluffy Coconut Topping
What sets this cake apart is its light coconut frosting. Here’s how to make it dreamy:
- Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for best results.
- Whip until stiff peaks form for that cloud-like consistency.
- Add coconut extract for aroma and depth.
- Top with shredded coconut for texture and a snowy finish.
This frosting pairs well with other cakes too—try it on these oatmeal bars for a sweet topping twist.
Yummy Variations: Sheet Cake, Layer Cake, or Cupcakes
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be made in several formats:
- Coconut Sheet Cake: Use a 9×13 pan and bake for 35–40 minutes.
- Layer Cake: Stick with two 8-inch pans for a traditional look.
- Cupcakes: Bake in lined muffin tins for 18–22 minutes.
Want another showstopping variation? Try a nectarine jam swirl between the layers.
Coconut Desserts That Pair Well With This Cake
Pair your cake with these coconut desserts or fruit-forward treats:
- Coconut macaroons
- Toasted coconut ice cream
- Coconut rice pudding
- Peach salad for a fresh contrast
It’s a tropical twist to any meal and ideal for those who love yummy food dessert combos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Coconut Recipes
Even great bakers make mistakes! Here’s what to avoid:
- Using sweetened coconut in batter and frosting—can make it too sweet.
- Overbaking the cake—it should be light and tender.
- Not cooling completely before frosting—the cream frosting will melt.
- Skipping the extract—coconut extract adds bold flavor.
Need a fun savory break from all the sweets? Try this slow cooker parmesan garlic chicken for dinner.
Serving Suggestions: How to Present This Yummy Cake
Presentation makes the difference! Here’s how to make your yummy cakes pop:
- Serve chilled for the ultimate cloud-like experience.
- Add a sprig of mint or edible flowers for elegance.
- Use a cake stand and cover with a glass dome to display.
- Slice cleanly with a hot knife for picture-perfect edges.
Want something salty on the side? These crab-stuffed cheddar bay biscuits add a rich contrast to your dessert table.
How to Store and Freeze Coconut Cloud Cake
Storing:
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better on day two!
Freezing:
- Freeze unfrosted layers wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight and frost before serving.
You can also freeze individual slices for quick, yummy food dessert cravings.
Essential Baking Tools for This Cake Recipe
To make this cake effortlessly, you’ll need:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8-inch round pans or 9×13 sheet pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Want to expand your baking gear? Check out Lyndy’s dessert category for more inspiration.
FAQs About Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe
Can I use sweetened coconut?
Yes, but adjust the sugar in the batter slightly.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Try using plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, but your cake will be denser. Cake flour creates a lighter crumb.
Can I toast the coconut?
Absolutely! Toasting the topping adds a wonderful nutty flavor.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute.
Conclusion + Call to Action: Share the Joy of Yummy Sweets
This Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of texture, flavor, and the joy of baking from scratch. Whether you make it as a sheet cake for a potluck or as a layered showpiece for a birthday, it’s guaranteed to wow everyone who takes a bite.
Loved this recipe? Share it with your friends, leave a comment, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious cake recipes, coconut desserts, and must-try sweets. Explore more delightful ideas in our yummy cakes collection today.
PrintCoconut Cloud Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Coconut Cloud Cake is a light, fluffy layer cake filled with tropical coconut flavor and topped with a cloud-like whipped coconut frosting. Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or casual desserts, this cake is a dream for coconut lovers everywhere.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups cake flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- For the Coconut Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch pans or line with parchment paper.
- Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Add coconut and vanilla extracts.
- Add Yolks & Buttermilk: Beat in yolks one at a time. Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour.
- Whip Egg Whites: Beat egg whites in a clean bowl to stiff peaks. Gently fold into batter. Stir in shredded coconut.
- Bake: Divide batter between pans and bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Make Frosting: Whip cream, powdered sugar, and extracts until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble: Frost cake and garnish with shredded coconut. Chill 30 minutes before serving for best results.
Notes
- Use cake flour for extra tenderness and lightness.
- Don’t skip whipping the egg whites—they create the signature “cloud” texture.
- Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best volume.
- Can be made as cupcakes or sheet cake with adjusted baking time.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe, Coconut Cake, Coconut Desserts, Light Cake Recipes, Whipped Cream Cake