Description
A simple, tropical-inspired treat perfect for those who love a moist, tender crumb. Relying on the natural richness of full-fat coconut milk, this cake is simultaneously dense and fluffy, infused with vanilla and shredded coconut for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease an 8×8-inch pan.
Homogenize: Whisk or blend the canned coconut milk until the fat and liquid are completely smooth and resemble heavy cream.
Wet Mixture: Whisk together 1 cup of the homogenized milk, melted oil, eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla.
Combine: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, shredded coconut, and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Bake: Pour into the pan and bake for 30–40 mins until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Notes
Canned vs. Carton: Full-fat canned coconut milk is mandatory. Refrigerated cartons are too watery and will compromise the cake’s structural integrity.
Oil Temperature: Ensure the melted coconut oil is slightly cooled; if added to the eggs while boiling hot, it may prematurely cook or ‘scramble’ them.
Don’t Overmix: Stop stirring once the flour streaks disappear. Overworking the batter develops too much gluten, resulting in a tough, bread-like texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Snack Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical / American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 45
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 35
Keywords: coconut milk snack cake, easy coconut cake, canned coconut milk recipes, dairy free cake, tropical dessert