Coconut Cream Dream Cake is a deliciously rich and creamy dessert that’s perfect for coconut lovers. It’s light, moist, and filled with a dreamy coconut flavor. Here’s a recipe that combines coconut in the cake, filling, and frosting, making it a coconut lover’s paradise!
Coconut Cream Dream Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
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1 box (15.25 oz) white or yellow cake mix (or homemade if preferred)
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3 large eggs
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1 cup coconut milk (from the can, full-fat for richer flavor)
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1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup shredded sweetened coconut (for added texture)
For the Coconut Cream Filling:
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional for texture)
For the Frosting:
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Bake the Cake:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
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Prepare the cake batter according to the package directions, substituting coconut milk for the water and adding vanilla extract for extra flavor.
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Stir in the shredded coconut to the batter for extra coconut goodness.
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Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
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Bake according to the package instructions, usually around 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Coconut Cream Filling:
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In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer (do not bring it to a boil).
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Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you’d like added texture, fold in the shredded coconut.
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Let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows it to thicken up slightly and makes it easier to layer into the cake.
3. Whip the Frosting:
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In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
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Be careful not to overwhip; you want it to be light and fluffy, not butter-like.
4. Assemble the Cake:
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Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer of the cake on a cake plate or serving platter.
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Using a serrated knife, slice the top off the cake layer if it’s domed, to create a flat surface. This ensures the layers stack neatly.
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Spoon a generous amount of the coconut cream filling onto the first cake layer and spread it evenly over the surface.
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Top with the second cake layer, pressing gently to secure it.
5. Frost the Cake:
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Spread the whipped cream frosting over the top and sides of the cake. You can use a spatula to create a smooth finish or a decorative swirl for a more rustic look.
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Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top of the cake for garnish. You can also toast the coconut lightly in a skillet if you prefer a more golden, nutty flavor.
6. Chill & Serve:
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Refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes before slicing. This will allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.
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Slice, serve, and enjoy your dreamy coconut cream cake!
Tips for the Best Coconut Cream Dream Cake:
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Toast the coconut: For added flavor and texture, toast the shredded coconut in a dry pan until golden and sprinkle it on top of the frosting.
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Add more coconut flavor: You can infuse the whipped cream with a teaspoon of coconut extract for an extra boost of coconut flavor in the frosting.
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Chill the cake: If you have the time, letting the cake chill for a few hours (or even overnight) helps the flavors develop even more.
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Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix or a homemade gluten-free cake recipe to make this cake gluten-free, and make sure the shredded coconut is gluten-free as well.
This Coconut Cream Dream Cake is the perfect treat for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where you want to wow your guests with something indulgent and flavorful. It’s soft, creamy, and packed with coconut flavor in every layer. Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to get creative with toppings!