Coconut Cloud Cake Fluffy Frosted

Section: Indulgent Desserts for Sweet Endings

Experience the ultimate lightness with this coconut cloud cake. Boasting fluffy cake layers, creamy frosting, and toasted coconut, this dessert stands out with its irresistible tropical flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Easy to assemble with pantry staples, it suits special celebrations or a simple treat. Bonus tips help ensure the cake stays moist and looks stunning. Cooling the cake before frosting and chilling before slicing yield perfect presentation and taste, while toasting coconut gives extra depth. A true delight for coconut lovers and anyone seeking a show-stopping, yet simple, confection.

A man wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Brought to You By Ryan
Last modified on Sat, 02 Aug 2025 11:46:48 GMT
A slice of coconut cloud cake on a plate. Bookmark
A slice of coconut cloud cake on a plate. | palatablelife.com

Imagine biting into a piece of cloud soft and fluffy and melting in your mouth with every bite That is the magic of the Coconut Cloud Cake This dreamy dessert is the perfect combination of moist sponge layers a luscious coconut frosting and the irresistible crunch of toasted coconut Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself this cake promises to impress

I first made this on a rainy Saturday afternoon and my family could not stop raving about how dreamy it was The smile on their faces with every bite made this cake an instant classic in our home

Ingredients

  • All purpose flour: Forms the cake’s structure while keeping a delicate texture Look for unbleached flour for the best results
  • Coconut milk: Adds moisture and a rich tropical flavor Use full fat canned coconut milk for added creaminess
  • Unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps tenderize each layer Choose high quality European style butter if possible
  • Sweetened shredded coconut: Toasted or fresh adds flavor and texture Fresh coconut feels softer while toasted gives a golden crunch
  • Cream cheese and heavy whipping cream: Creates the smooth cloud like frosting and balances the sweetness Go for block cream cheese rather than the spreadable kind for firmer frosting
  • Coconut and vanilla extracts: Infuses the cake and frosting with aromatic deep coconut flavor Read the label to ensure the extract is pure not imitation

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to the optimal 350 F Set out two nine inch round cake pans and grease them well Lining with parchment ensures an easy release from the pans Later sift together your flour baking powder and salt This breaks up lumps and gives the cake an even rise In a different bowl cream very soft butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for about four minutes until pale and fluffy Beat in eggs one at a time for a light airy batter Add vanilla and coconut extract Next alternate adding the dry mix and coconut milk in three parts Always stir gently only just until blended The batter will look thick and silky
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into both pans Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to smooth the surface so your layers bake flat Place in the oven on the middle rack Bake for about twenty five to thirty minutes checking for doneness with a toothpick at twenty five minutes The cake is done when the pick comes out clean Let the cakes cool in their pans for ten minutes then carefully turn them out onto a rack Cool thoroughly before applying frosting
Make the Frosting:
Beat softened cream cheese on high until absolutely smooth and creamy Slowly add powdered sugar mixing until incorporated Chill your heavy cream then whip it in a second bowl to stiff peaks Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep the frosting light Fold in a little vanilla and coconut extract For flawless frosting make sure everything stays cold after mixing
Assemble the Cake:
Start by setting one cooled cake layer on your serving platter Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top Lay the second cake round on top Apply a thin crumb coat all around and chill to set Finish by frosting the full cake smoothly using an offset spatula for a fluffy finish
Add the Coconut Topping:
Lightly toast shredded coconut on a sheet tray in a three twenty five F oven stirring every minute or two for golden color and nutty aroma Once cool press the coconut all over the frosted cake and sprinkle extra on top
Chill Everything:
Move the finished cake to the fridge for at least one hour before cutting If you want sharp slices this quick chill is essential
A slice of coconut cloud cake on a plate.
A slice of coconut cloud cake on a plate. | palatablelife.com

I always look forward to sprinkling the warm toasted coconut on top The kitchen fills with a rich sweet aroma that reminds me of childhood birthday parties When my grandmother tasted this cake she said it was like eating a pillow and begged for seconds

Storage Tips

Coconut Cloud Cake loves cool places so always keep leftovers in the fridge tightly covered It stays moist for three days Let individual slices come to room temperature for best flavor and texture before serving If you want to store it longer freeze unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped in plastic and foil Then simply thaw frost and serve when the craving hits

Ingredient Substitutions

No coconut milk Try almond or classic whole milk for a lighter style For dairy free use coconut oil or vegan butter and a plant based cream cheese in the frosting The taste will stay luscious and surprisingly close to the original If you want a more subtle sweetness go with unsweetened shredded coconut in the filling and topping

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Coconut Cloud Cake on its own with hot coffee or create a tropical dessert plate with fresh pineapple or mango Try garnishing with edible flowers or a scatter of candied ginger for special occasions Kids love helping to press the coconut onto the frosting so make it a family affair

Cultural Context

Coconut based cakes are beloved throughout the tropics bringing sunshine to every table This American style cloud cake is inspired by fluffy white coconut desserts served during spring celebrations like Easter and Mother’s Day Making it from scratch gives you the joy that comes with traditional home baking

Seasonal Adaptations

Stir chopped macadamia nuts into the batter for a warm nutty flavor in the autumn months For a summer version add lime zest to the frosting for a bright citrusy twist At the holidays sprinkle just a hint of ground cardamom or cinnamon into the coconut before toasting

Success Stories

Several readers have baked this for bridal showers birthdays and backyard BBQs and said it was the star of the dessert table One family doubled the recipe to make a three layer version It sliced beautifully and tasted amazing even on the second day Others commented they kept going back to the fridge for leftover bites long after the party ended

Freezer Meal Conversion

Cool cake layers fully then wrap tightly and freeze up to two months When ready to assemble thaw on the counter and frost Refrigerated frosting also holds up well for a day or two in advance letting you prep for stress free entertaining

A slice of coconut cloud cake on a plate.
A slice of coconut cloud cake on a plate. | palatablelife.com

Once you make this Coconut Cloud Cake you will find it is one of those recipes you reach for any time you want a show stopping but truly homemade dessert Your kitchen will smell amazing and your friends and family will be begging for just one more slice Enjoy every magical bite

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What makes this cake so light and fluffy?

The combination of sifted flour, whipped butter, and careful mixing creates an airy texture. Using coconut milk also helps keep the cake layers moist and tender while providing a subtle tropical note.

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, almond milk or regular milk are good alternatives. Coconut cream can also be used for deeper flavor, but it will alter texture slightly.

→ How do I toast the coconut topping?

Spread shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.

→ What’s the best way to frost the cake smoothly?

Apply a thin crumb coat first, let it set, then use an offset spatula to spread a thicker final layer. For best results, chill the cake before slicing.

→ Can the cake be made ahead?

Yes, the cake layers can be baked and frozen (unfrosted) for up to two months. Frost and assemble after thawing for the freshest result.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep the assembled cake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Serve at room temperature for best texture.

Coconut Cloud Cake Fluffy Frosted

Soft coconut layers with creamy frosting and toasted coconut create a light, irresistible dessert.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
60 minutes
Brought to You By: Ryan

Recipe Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Perfect for Beginners

Culinary Inspiration: American

Yields: 12 Portion Size (One 2-layer, 9-inch cake)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You’ll Need

→ Cake Layers

01 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 1 tablespoon baking powder
03 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 2 cups granulated sugar
06 4 large eggs, room temperature
07 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 1 teaspoon coconut extract
09 1 cup full-fat coconut milk, room temperature

→ Frosting

10 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
11 2 cups powdered sugar
12 1 and 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
13 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

→ Topping

15 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut, toasted or untoasted

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Sift the dry mixture to ensure lump-free batter.

Step 03

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and coconut extract.

Step 04

Alternately add the dry ingredients and coconut milk to the butter mixture in three parts, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 05

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 06

Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip chilled heavy whipping cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture in batches. Stir in vanilla and coconut extracts.

Step 07

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Cover with frosting. Add the second cake layer and apply a thin crumb coat, then refrigerate for 20 minutes. Apply the final layer of frosting and smooth it with an offset spatula.

Step 08

Press shredded coconut onto the sides and sprinkle generously over the top of the frosted cake. Use toasted coconut for extra depth of flavor, if desired.

Step 09

Refrigerate the fully assembled cake for at least one hour to set the frosting. Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.

Handy Tips

  1. Allow all ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, even batter and superior cake texture.
  2. For a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar by 1/4 cup.
  3. Toast shredded coconut by spreading it on a baking sheet and baking at 325°F for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden.
  4. Cake layers can be made ahead and frozen for up to 2 months before assembling.
  5. Gluten-free blends containing xanthan gum can be substituted for all-purpose flour if desired.

Must-Have Tools

  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Two 9-inch round cake pans
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Offset spatula

Potential Allergens

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if needed.
  • Contains eggs, dairy, coconut, and wheat.

Nutritional Details (Per Portion)

Nutritional information is provided for reference and shouldn’t replace expert guidance.
  • Calories: 540
  • Fats: 29 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 64 grams
  • Proteins: 7 grams