If you’re searching for a dessert that tastes like a tropical vacation, look no further than this Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe. Moist, fluffy, and utterly luxurious, this is the kind of cake you’ll make once and dream about forever. Billowy layers of coconut-infused sponge and creamy coconut frosting come together in a slice of pure joy—perfect for birthdays, brunches, or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just craving something special, this recipe promises pillowy softness and rich coconut flavor in every bite.

Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe starts with simple, familiar ingredients. Each one plays its own unique role in creating the signature lightness, sweetness, and dreamy texture of the finished cake. Don’t skip anything—every element brings something essential to the table!

All-purpose flour: The foundation for your sponge, providing just the right amount of structure while keeping things delicate.
Baking powder: Guarantees a lofty, cloud-like rise that gives the cake its pillowy crumb.
Salt: Pops all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
Unsalted butter: Adds a buttery backbone and unbeatable richness to both cake and frosting.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens and tenderizes, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Egg whites: Whipped to soft peaks, they’re the secret to the cake’s signature lightness.
Coconut milk: Lends that irresistible coconut taste while keeping the cake extra moist.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out flavors and deepens the aroma.
Coconut extract: Boosts the tropical vibe so every bite sings with coconut flavor.
Sweetened shredded coconut: Sprinkled inside and out for lovely texture and that gorgeous snowy finish.
Powdered sugar: Key for silky-smooth, sweet coconut frosting.
Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and a gentle tang to balance all the sweet, fluffy layers.
Heavy cream: Whips up light and cloudlike for swoon-worthy frosting that pipes and spreads beautifully.

How to Make Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Pans

Gather all your ingredients and allow them to come to room temperature—this helps everything blend more smoothly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. A well-prepped pan makes for even baking and a quick, drama-free release.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking not only combines everything evenly but also aerates the mix, helping set the stage for your gorgeously light sponge.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This is where you build the cake’s foundational texture—take your time here for the best results.

Step 4: Mix in Egg Whites and Flavorings

Add the egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla and coconut extracts. These layers of flavor make the Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe shine with every forkful.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients and Coconut Milk

With the mixer on low, alternate adding your flour mixture and coconut milk, starting and ending with the flour. This keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing. Finish by folding in half the shredded coconut for that bonus texture inside each layer.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to finish cooling completely.

Step 7: Make the Coconut Frosting

Beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until silky and very smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream, vanilla, and coconut extracts. Whip it until light and fluffy, then fold in more shredded coconut if desired for extra texture.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost

Place the first cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of coconut frosting over the top. Add the next layer and coat the entire cake with a thick, dreamy blanket of frosting. Finish by gently pressing shredded coconut onto the top and sides for that dazzling, cloud-like look.

How to Serve Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe

Garnishes

The joy of the Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe really comes alive with its finishing touches! A generous blanket of sweetened shredded coconut creates a snowy, luxurious exterior. For a little wow factor, try adding curls of toasted coconut, a handful of edible flowers, or even a scattering of fresh berries for color and contrast.

Side Dishes

This dreamy cake truly shines on its own, but it also plays well alongside fresh tropical fruits—think juicy mango, tangy pineapple, or ripe papaya. If you’re serving up an afternoon tea, pair it with a delicate coconut latte or a crisp glass of sparkling wine for ultimate elegance.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I love serving individual mini Coconut Cloud Cakes—just bake in cupcake tins! Or go rustic by slicing big squares from a sheet cake version. Feeling fancy? Layer sliced cake with coconut whipped cream and fruit in glass jars for stunning parfait-style desserts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days—though, truthfully, it almost always disappears long before that thanks to its irresistible charm.

Freezing

This cake is a dream for planners! Simply wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before assembling and frosting for best results. If freezing frosted slices, layer parchment between slices and store airtight.

Reheating

Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe is best enjoyed at room temperature. If refrigerated, let slices warm up for 20–30 minutes before serving so the crumb is soft and the frosting is creamy—not cold and firm.

FAQs

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes, coconut cream adds extra richness! Just be aware it’s thicker and more decadent, so you might want to thin it out with a bit of milk for the cake batter to ensure the perfect texture.

What if I don’t have coconut extract?

You can absolutely make the Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe without coconut extract, though the coconut flavor will be more subtle. Try adding an extra handful of shredded coconut or a bit more coconut milk for a boost.

Can I make this cake gluten free?

Yes—substitute your favorite gluten free all-purpose flour blend, and make sure your baking powder is certified gluten free. The result is still light, fluffy, and totally delicious!

Is this recipe suitable for cupcakes?

Definitely! Simply divide the batter between lined muffin tins and bake for about 18-20 minutes. Frost and sprinkle with coconut as you would the full cake—the result is irresistible little coconut clouds.

How do I toast coconut for garnish?

Spread sweetened shredded coconut in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 5-8 minutes, stirring once. Watch it closely! It browns quickly and adds beautiful flavor and color to your Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s pure happiness in every bite of this Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe—whether you make it for a special celebration or just to add some sunshine to your day. I hope you fall in love with its fluffy texture and lush coconut flavor as much as I have. Give it a try and let it become your new favorite feel-good dessert!

Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe