Introduction
Coconut Cloud Cake is a soft, airy, and delicately sweet dessert layered with coconut flavor inside and out. Its tender crumb and cloud-light frosting make it feel like eating a slice of tropical heaven. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you crave something soft, fluffy, and magical.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
Coconut cakes have deep roots in American Southern baking, where coconut was once considered an exotic luxury ingredient. Bakers used shredded coconut and coconut milk to create celebration cakes that felt special, elegant, and festive.
Over time, coconut cake spread worldwide, especially in areas where coconut is a staple—Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific islands.
The “cloud cake” style is a modern twist, focusing on:
Light, airy textures
Whipped, cloud-like frostings
A delicate sweetness instead of heavy richness
It has become a popular choice for spring, Easter, tropical-themed parties, and all kinds of celebrations.
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Ingredients (Typical Coconut Cloud Cake)
(You can adjust quantities based on your preferred pan size — here is a standard 2-layer cake)
For the Cake
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 ½ cups sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup coconut oil (or more butter)
4 large eggs
1 cup coconut milk (full-fat is best)
½ cup buttermilk or regular milk
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp coconut extract (optional but boosts flavor)
For the Frosting (Cloud Cream)
2 cups heavy whipping cream
225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp coconut extract
2 cups shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
For Decoration
Additional shredded coconut for covering the cake
Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
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Optional Additions
Pineapple tidbits between layers for a Piña Colada twist
Almond extract for a coconut-almond flavor
Lemon zest to lighten and brighten the cake
White chocolate curls on top
Coconut custard layered inside for extra indulgence
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Tips for Success
Room-temperature ingredients ensure the cake mixes evenly.
Whip the frosting until light and fluffy, but don’t overbeat the cream cheese.
Use full-fat coconut milk—it adds the signature richness.
Fold the batter gently after adding the flour to keep it airy.
If you want a snowy cloud look, press shredded coconut all over the frosted cake.
Chill the cake at least 1 hour before slicing for cleaner layers.
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Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Layers
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 8-inch pans.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a mixer, beat butter, coconut oil, and sugar until fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
6. Add vanilla and coconut extract.
7. Alternate adding dry ingredients with coconut milk + buttermilk.
8. Mix just until smooth.
9. Divide into pans and bake 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Cool completely.
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2. Make the Cloud Frosting
1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and coconut extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
4. Fold whipped cream into the cream-cheese mixture.
5. Stir in 1–2 cups shredded coconut.
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3. Assemble the Cake
1. Place first cake layer on a stand.
2. Spread a thick layer of cloud frosting.
3. Add second cake layer and frost the entire cake.
4. Press shredded coconut all over the outside.
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Description
Coconut Cloud Cake truly lives up to its name. The texture is feather-light, the coconut milk adds deep tropical richness, and the cloud frosting creates a silky, whipped-cream finish. Every slice is snowy white, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth soft with a fresh, sweet coconut aroma.
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Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice, 12 slices)
Values vary with frosting amount and coconut type.
Calories: 380–480
Carbohydrates: 40–55 g
Protein: 4–6 g
Fat: 20–30 g
Sugar: Moderate to high
Fiber: 1–2 g
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Conclusion
Coconut Cloud Cake is a luxurious yet gentle dessert—light, airy, and full of coconut flavor. Whether served at celebrations or enjoyed as a comforting homemade treat, it brings elegance and pure bliss to any table.
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Recommendation
This cake pairs beautifully with:
Fresh berries
A drizzle of raspberry syrup
Hot tea or iced coconut latte
Whipped cream or fruit compote
Keep it chilled for the best texture and refreshing flavor.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a more balanced twist, you can:
Use reduced-fat cream cheese
Replace some sugar with honey
Add fresh fruit between layers
Use light coconut milk
Serve smaller portions alongside fruit
These adjustments maintain indulgence while adding nourishment and balance.
