How To Make Fluffy Coconut Cake
Last Updated on: 9th September 2025, 05:27 am
Fluffy Coconut Cake
There’s something truly comforting about the smell of a homemade fluffy coconut cake wafting through the house, especially when it’s laced with the sweet, tropical aroma of coconut. Baking has always been a form of therapy for me—an easy way to bring the family together, encourage Tilly’s creativity in the kitchen, and carve out a little slice of calm amongst the chaos. This fluffy coconut cake is one of our absolute favourites, and I’m so excited to share it with you.
Why Fluffy Coconut Cake?
Coconut is one of those ingredients that feels like a holiday in a bowl. It’s naturally sweet, a little bit exotic, and pairs beautifully with a cup of tea after a long day. Plus, it’s a lovely way to sneak a bit of extra fun into family baking. Whether you’re making this cake for a birthday, a weekend treat, or just because you fancy something different, it’s always a hit—especially with Tilly, who loves helping to sprinkle the coconut on top.
Ingredients
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 250g self-raising flour
- 100g desiccated coconut
- 200ml coconut milk (from a tin, well stirred)
- Pinch of salt
For the Icing
- 200g cream cheese, softened
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 300g icing sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp coconut milk
- 50g desiccated coconut (for sprinkling)
How To Make Fluffy Coconut Cake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4). Grease and line two 20cm round cake tins.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Sift in the flour and salt, then fold gently. Add the desiccated coconut and slowly pour in the coconut milk, mixing until just combined.
Divide the mixture between your tins and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean. Allow to cool.
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together, add the icing sugar and coconut milk, and whip until fluffy. Spread the icing between the layers and on top of the cake, then sprinkle with coconut.
Family Baking Memories
Some of my fondest memories are of baking with my children. Tilly, in particular, has become quite the kitchen assistant, and she’s always keen to crack the eggs or get creative with the decorations. Baking together isn’t just about the end result—it’s about the laughter, the floury faces, and the sense of achievement when you pull a golden, fluffy cake from the oven. If you’ve got little ones at home, let them get involved! Measuring, mixing, and decorating are all fantastic ways for kids to build confidence and learn new skills.
Enjoying the Little Things
This cake is best enjoyed with the people you love—whether that’s a big family gathering or just you and the kids after school. It keeps beautifully for a few days, making it perfect for busy weeks. If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations—tag me on Instagram @misstillyandme!
What’s your favourite family baking tradition? For more recipes, pop over here