Coconut Cake with Seven-minute Frosting

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There’s something truly special about discovering a family recipe tucked away in an old box of papers. That’s exactly how I found Grandmama’s Homemade Coconut Cake. This cake, with its decadent seven-minute frosting, is a cherished family favorite for holidays and special occasions. My grandmother had marked the recipe with a simple “Real good,” and after tasting it, I wholeheartedly agree. This cake is the epitome of moistness, and you’ll find yourself savoring every last crumb.

This coconut cake is topped with a fail-proof seven-minute frosting and a generous sprinkling of coconut, creating an unforgettable taste experience. One of the best parts about Grandmama’s frosting is its simplicity — no need for a double boiler, and it comes out perfectly every time, regardless of the weather. If you love a cake with plenty of frosting, consider doubling the frosting recipe for a layer cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a treasure trove of flavors and textures. The rich, moist cake paired with the light, fluffy frosting and coconut topping creates a delightful combination. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, requiring no special equipment or techniques.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch cake pan
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

• Vegetable shortening and flour for preparing the pans
• 1 cup unsalted butter (two sticks, at room temp)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut flavoring (found near vanilla extract)
• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• No fail seven-minute frosting
• 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut (for garnishing cake)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch cake pan and set aside.
2. Cream together the butter and sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer at medium speed until very smooth, at least four minutes.
3. Add eggs, vanilla, and coconut flavoring and beat well to combine.
4. In a separate medium-sized bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add the flour mixture and the buttermilk to the butter mixture and beat with an electric mixer at medium speed, scraping down the sides as needed, until thoroughly blended and smooth, 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 25-30 minutes for round cakes and 30-35 for a 9×13 cake.
7. Cool completely and frost with no fail seven-minute frosting. Sprinkle with coconut and press coconut into the sides immediately after frosting.
8. Keep covered at room temp for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips for Success

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best texture.
• Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a dense cake.
• For an extra coconutty flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut before topping the cake.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a fun twist, try adding a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers or mix in some crushed pineapple for a tropical flair. You can also use almond extract instead of coconut flavoring for a different, yet delightful taste.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a rich treat, so enjoy in moderation. Each serving provides a delicious way to celebrate special occasions with family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can this cake be made ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them on the day of serving.
• Is there an alternative to buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• How long does the frosting last? The frosting is best used fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making Grandmama’s Homemade Coconut Cake as much as my family and I do. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of tradition and love that brings everyone together. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Bon appétit!

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