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Strawberry Coconut Layer Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 122 reviews

This luscious Strawberry Cake features moist layers infused with sweet shredded coconut, fresh diced strawberries, and a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfectly balanced with almond and vanilla extracts, this cake is a delightful centerpiece for any celebration or gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 4 cups + 2 Tbsp cake flour
  • 2½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1½ Tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup + 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 6 large egg whites (room temperature)
  • 2 whole large eggs (room temperature)
  • ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 16 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 1½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 3¾ – 4 cups confectioner’s sugar

Assembly Ingredients

  • 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1½ pounds fresh strawberries (stemmed, hulled, and diced)
  • 12 oz. fresh strawberries (halved or whole)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray three 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans with nonstick cooking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  3. Add Butter: Add the room temperature unsalted butter to the dry mixture and mix on low speed until a crumbly mixture forms.
  4. Add Eggs: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg whites and whole eggs. Add this mixture to the stand mixer in two additions, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
  5. Add Remaining Wet Ingredients: Stir in the shredded coconut, whole milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until everything is well combined and the batter is fluffy.
  6. Divide and Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the three prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
  7. Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then invert onto wire racks to cool completely.
  8. Prepare Frosting: Using the stand mixer, combine butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until smooth and well combined.
  9. Add Confectioner’s Sugar: Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar one cup at a time, mixing after each addition until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
  10. Toast Coconut: In a large dry skillet, toast the shredded coconut over medium-low heat, stirring often, until it is light golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
  11. Assemble the Cake Layer 1: Place one cake layer on a large plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top and evenly sprinkle 2 cups of diced strawberries over the frosting.
  12. Assemble Layer 2: Add the second cake layer on top and gently press down to secure. Spread another layer of frosting and sprinkle with 2 more cups of diced strawberries.
  13. Assemble Layer 3 & Frost: Add the final cake layer and gently press down. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
  14. Decorate: Press the toasted coconut gently into the sides of the cake for decoration. Arrange halved or whole strawberries on top as desired.
  15. Chill: Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve to allow the frosting to set.

Notes

  • Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for best mixing results.
  • Line cake pans with parchment paper to avoid sticking and achieve clean edges.
  • To toast coconut evenly, stir frequently and watch carefully to prevent burning.
  • Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in the cake layers and decoration.
  • This cake is best served within 2-3 days and should be kept refrigerated.

Keywords: Strawberry Cake, Coconut Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Layer Cake, Fresh Strawberry Dessert

Find it online: https://nayabaker.com/strawberry-coconut-layer-cake-recipe/