### Introduction:
Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is a classic Southern dessert that combines the tropical flavor of coconut with the rich texture of a moist, buttery cake. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and coated in shredded coconut, this cake is both indulgent and comforting. It’s a perfect treat for family gatherings, holidays, or anytime you’re in the mood for a sweet, nostalgic dessert. The combination of light cake, creamy frosting, and coconut is a beloved favorite for coconut lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
### Origin and Cultural Significance:
The roots of coconut cake trace back to the American South, where coconuts were often used in baking. Historically, coconut was a relatively rare but highly prized ingredient, and it became popular in desserts during the early 20th century. The “old-fashioned” coconut cake specifically evokes a sense of tradition and nostalgia, as it’s often made from scratch with simple, homemade ingredients. This cake was commonly served at family gatherings, church socials, and holiday dinners, and it remains a symbol of Southern hospitality and home-cooked comfort food.
Coconut cake, with its rich flavor and beautiful appearance, also carries cultural significance in many other regions, especially in tropical areas where coconut is a common ingredient. It’s often prepared for celebrations, from birthdays to weddings, and is a dessert that brings people together to share in the joy of food.
### Ingredients Quantity:
**For the Cake:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup whole milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar)
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk (optional, for extra coconut flavor)
**For the Frosting:**
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
– 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for frosting)
– 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for decorating)
### Optional Additions:
– **For extra flavor**: Add 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract to the cake batter or frosting to intensify the coconut flavor.
– **For texture**: Use toasted coconut instead of sweetened shredded coconut for an extra nutty flavor and texture in the frosting.
– **For moisture**: Brush the layers of cake with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water before frosting for added moisture.
– **For a richer frosting**: Add a bit of heavy cream to the frosting to make it creamier and more luxurious.
### Tips for Success:
1. **Room Temperature Ingredients**: Ensure the butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend together more smoothly and ensures a lighter, fluffier cake.
2. **Don’t Overmix the Batter**: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid making the cake too dense. Overmixing can result in a tough texture.
3. **Toast the Coconut**: Toasting the coconut adds an extra layer of flavor. You can do this by placing the coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
4. **Sift the Dry Ingredients**: Sifting the flour and baking powder helps create an even texture in the batter and ensures the cake rises evenly.
5. **Let the Cake Cool Completely**: Be sure to let the cake layers cool completely before frosting, as warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the Cake Batter**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Fold in the shredded coconut and coconut milk (if using).
6. **Bake the Cake**: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
7. **Make the Frosting**: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for the frosting.
8. **Frost the Cake**: Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer and frost the entire cake. Decorate the top and sides with the remaining shredded coconut.
9. **Chill and Serve**: Chill the cake for about 30 minutes to set the frosting. Slice and serve. Enjoy!
### Description:
Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is a delightful dessert known for its tender, moist texture and tropical coconut flavor. The cake itself is light yet rich, with just the right amount of sweetness and coconut shreds throughout. The cream cheese frosting is rich and smooth, perfectly complementing the cake’s texture. Covered in a blanket of shredded coconut, this cake has a rustic, homemade feel that makes it a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re a coconut lover or not, this cake is sure to win hearts with its unique, satisfying flavors.
### Nutritional Information (per slice, assuming 12 servings):
– **Calories**: 350-400 kcal
– **Carbohydrates**: 50-55g
– **Protein**: 3-4g
– **Fat**: 18-22g
– **Saturated Fat**: 12-14g
– **Fiber**: 1-2g
– **Sugar**: 35-40g
– **Sodium**: 250-300mg
**Note**: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and serving sizes.
### Conclusion:
Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. Its moist texture, rich coconut flavor, and decadent frosting make it a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for celebrations or as a treat to enjoy with family and friends, this cake brings a taste of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re following a family recipe or discovering it for the first time, this cake will surely become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
### Recommendation:
For those who enjoy baking and indulging in nostalgic desserts, Old Fashioned Coconut Cake is a must-try. It’s perfect for special occasions, but also great for when you want to treat yourself to something comforting and delicious. Serve it at your next family gathering or holiday celebration, and watch it disappear quickly! By embracing healthful indulgence, you can savor every bite in moderation and enjoy the simple pleasures of this timeless treat.