Homemade Coconut Cream Cloud Cake

Ingredients

For the Coconut Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons coconut extract
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk, well stirred
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut

For the Coconut Cream Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• Pinch of salt

For Decorating

• 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Properly preparing the pans helps prevent the delicate cake layers from sticking and makes them easier to remove after baking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix thoroughly to distribute the leavening ingredients evenly throughout the flour. This helps the cake rise consistently and develop a tender texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer for approximately 3–4 minutes, until pale, light, and fluffy.
2. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which contributes to a softer cake crumb.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure the butter and sugar are evenly combined.

Step 4: Add the Egg Whites and Flavorings

1. Add the egg whites gradually, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract and coconut extract until incorporated.
3. The egg whites help create a light-colored cake with a delicate texture, while the extracts enhance the sweet coconut aroma.

Step 5: Add the Coconut Milk and Sour Cream

1. In a separate bowl, combine the coconut milk and sour cream until smooth.
2. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the coconut milk mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
3. Mix on low speed just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the finished cake dense.

Step 6: Fold in the Shredded Coconut

1. Using a spatula, gently fold the 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut into the batter.
2. Distribute the coconut throughout the mixture without excessive stirring.
3. The shredded coconut adds little bursts of coconut flavor and a delicate texture to each slice.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
3. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
4. Let the layers cool completely before frosting. Applying frosting while the cake is warm can cause it to soften and slide.
5. With the cake layers ready, the next step is creating the smooth coconut cream frosting that gives this dessert its signature fluffy finish.

Step 8: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter

1. Place the softened cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl.
2. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
3. Using softened ingredients makes it easier to create a silky frosting with a consistent texture.

Step 9: Add the Powdered Sugar

1. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to prevent it from scattering.
2. Once incorporated, increase the mixer speed and beat until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.

Step 10: Add the Coconut Flavor

1. Add the coconut milk, vanilla extract, coconut extract, and pinch of salt.
2. Continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
3. The coconut milk provides a creamy finish, while the extracts enhance the cake's overall flavor.
4. Now that the frosting is ready, it's time to bring the layers together and transform them into a beautiful coconut-covered cake.