Name: Coconut Cloud Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cake:; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Frosting & Garnish:; 2–3 cups whipped cream or cream cheese frosting; 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut (plus more for filling if desired)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This Coconut Cloud Cake is light, fluffy, and filled with dreamy layers of coconut cream and snowy white frosting. I love how each bite feels like a tropical cloud—soft, sweet, and delicately flavored. It’s the kind of dessert that looks elegant on the table and tastes just as heavenly as it sounds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cake because it’s both stunning and comforting. The tender, airy crumb pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut filling, while the coconut flakes on the outside make it look like it’s wrapped in snow. It’s perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when I simply want to treat myself to something beautiful and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
Vanilla extract
Sweetened shredded coconut (for garnish and filling)
Whipped cream or cream cheese frosting (depending on preference)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, I whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, I cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time.
I mix in the coconut milk and vanilla extract until combined.
I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined—being careful not to overmix.
I divide the batter between the cake pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
I let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, I frost the cake with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting, sprinkle generously with shredded coconut, and layer the filling in between if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 10–12 slices. Prep time is around 20 minutes, baking takes 25–30 minutes, and cooling and frosting take about 45 minutes. Total time is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a layer of pineapple curd between the cakes for a tropical twist. For extra richness, I toast the coconut flakes before sprinkling them on the cake. If I want a more dramatic presentation, I make it as a three-layer cake with extra filling.

storage/reheating

I store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, I let slices sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving. The unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost them the next day. The flavors develop nicely overnight.

What’s the best frosting for this cake?

I love whipped cream for a lighter finish, but cream cheese frosting adds richness and tang. Both pair beautifully with coconut.

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes, but it will make the cake richer and denser. I sometimes dilute coconut cream with a little water for a lighter texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, I swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture stays light and fluffy.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Using coconut milk in the batter and not overbaking keeps the crumb soft. I also wrap cooled cake layers in plastic wrap if I’m not frosting them right away.

Conclusion

This Coconut Cloud Cake is a showstopper that’s as light and lovely as its name suggests. The soft layers, creamy frosting, and coconut topping make every bite feel special. Whether I’m celebrating with friends or enjoying a quiet slice at home, it’s always a slice of tropical heaven.