Best 8 Great Aunt Nolas Award Winning Coconut Cake Recipes

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Indulge in the delectable flavors of Great Aunt Nola's award-winning coconut cake, a symphony of moist and fluffy layers embraced by a luscious coconut frosting. This culinary masterpiece has garnered accolades for its heavenly texture and irresistible taste. Prepare to embark on a delightful baking journey as we unveil the secrets behind this legendary cake, meticulously detailed in our comprehensive recipe collection.

The foundation of this extraordinary cake lies in the perfectly balanced combination of all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Melted butter and eggs contribute to the richness and tenderness of the batter, while coconut extract and milk infuse each bite with an aromatic essence of coconut. Divided into three layers, the cake emerges from the oven with a golden-brown crust and an enticing aroma that fills the kitchen.

The crowning glory of this masterpiece is the luscious coconut frosting, prepared with a blend of butter, cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, and, of course, coconut extract. The frosting is light and fluffy, yet substantial enough to provide a delightful contrast to the delicate cake layers. As you savor each slice, the harmonious blend of coconut and vanilla flavors dances on your palate, leaving you craving more.

In addition to the classic coconut cake recipe, our collection also includes variations that cater to different dietary preferences and taste buds. Discover the gluten-free coconut cake, a delectable alternative that accommodates those with gluten sensitivities. For those who prefer a richer and denser cake, the coconut pound cake offers a satisfyingly moist and flavorful experience. And if you're seeking a vegan treat, the vegan coconut cake delivers all the indulgence without compromising on taste or texture.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventures, Great Aunt Nola's award-winning coconut cake is sure to impress. With our step-by-step instructions and detailed ingredient lists, you'll be able to recreate this iconic dessert in the comfort of your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a baking journey that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

INCREDIBLE COCONUT CAKE



Incredible Coconut Cake image

I found this coconut cake recipe in a newspaper many years ago and modified it to suit my taste. This is my all-time favorite cake, and my family and friends absolutely love it. -Lynne Bassler, Indiana, Pennsylvania

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 1h

Yield 16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 20

5 large eggs, separated, room temperature
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup canola oil
2-1/4 cups cake flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut, chopped
1 teaspoon coconut extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
FROSTING:
11 ounces cream cheese, softened
2/3 cup butter, softened
4-1/3 cups confectioners' sugar
1-1/4 teaspoons coconut extract
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

Steps:

  • Place egg whites in a large bowl; let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. , Preheat oven to 325°. In another large bowl, beat sugar, butter and oil until well blended. Add egg yolks, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. , Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beating well after each addition. Stir in coconut and extracts.. , Add cream of tartar to egg whites; with clean beaters, beat on medium until stiff peaks form. Fold a fourth of the egg whites into batter, then fold in remaining whites., Transfer to 3 greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans. Bake 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely., For frosting, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add confectioners' sugar and extract; beat until smooth. , Place 1 cake layer on a serving plate; spread with 1/2 cup frosting and sprinkle with 1/3 cup coconut. Repeat. Top with remaining cake layer. Spread remaining frosting over top and sides of cake; sprinkle with remaining coconut. Refrigerate for 2 hours before cutting. Store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 689 calories, Fat 37g fat (21g saturated fat), Cholesterol 123mg cholesterol, Sodium 353mg sodium, Carbohydrate 85g carbohydrate (64g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 6g protein.

COCONUT CAKE



Coconut Cake image

This perfect coconut cake sets the bar for homemade cakes everywhere. It's supremely moist with a soft fluffy crumb and intense coconut flavor. For success, follow this recipe carefully including using cake flour, egg whites, sour cream, and canned coconut milk.

Provided by Sally

Categories     Dessert

Time 4h

Number Of Ingredients 20

2 and 1/2 cups (285g) cake flour (spoon & leveled)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (1.5 sticks; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 and 2/3 cups (330g) granulated sugar
5 large egg whites, at room temperature
1/2 cup (120g) sour cream, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon coconut extract
1 cup (240ml) canned coconut milk, at room temperature*
1 cup (80g) sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
one 8 ounce block (224g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature*
5 cups (600g) confectioners' sugar
2 Tablespoons (30ml) canned coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 cups (160g) sweetened shredded coconut

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease three 9-inch cake pans, line with parchment paper, then grease the parchment paper. Parchment paper helps the cakes seamlessly release from the pans.
  • Whisk the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Set aside.
  • Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Beat in the egg whites until combined, then add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and coconut extract. Beat until combined. Mixture will look curdled as a result of the varying textures and solid butter combining. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl as needed. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the dry ingredients and coconut milk. Beat on low speed until combined, then add the shredded coconut. Whisk it all by hand to make sure there are no butter lumps at the bottom of the bowl. The batter will be slightly thick.
  • Pour batter evenly into cake pans. Weigh them to ensure accuracy, if desired. Bake for around 21-23 minutes or until the cakes are baked through. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it's done. Allow cakes to cool completely in the pans set on a wire rack. The cakes must be completely cool before frosting and assembling.
  • In a large bowl using a hand-held mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment, beat the butter and cream cheese together on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes. Add confectioners' sugar, coconut milk, vanilla extract, coconut extract, and salt with the mixer running on low. Increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes. Add more confectioners' sugar if frosting is too thin, more coconut milk if frosting is too thick, or an extra pinch of salt if frosting is too sweet.
  • Using a large serrated knife, slice a thin layer off the tops of the cakes to create a flat surface. Discard (or crumble over ice cream!). Place 1 cake layer on your cake stand, cake turntable, or serving plate. Evenly cover the top with about 1 and 1/2 cups of frosting. Top with 2nd cake layer and evenly cover the top with about 1 and 1/2 cups of frosting. Top with the third cake layer. Spread the remaining frosting all over the top and sides. I use and recommend an icing spatula to apply the frosting and bench scraper to smooth the sides. Sprinkle coconut on top of the cake and apply it to the sides. This can get a little messy and you can watch me do it in the video tutorial above. See blog post above about buttercream rose decoration.
  • Refrigerate cake for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This helps the cake hold its shape when cutting, though it's still a pretty fluffy cake!
  • Cover leftover cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

ULTIMATE COCONUT CAKE



Ultimate Coconut Cake image

This delicious, multi-layered coconut cake is courtesy of Robert Carter from the Peninsula Grill, in Charleston, South Carolina.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cake Recipes

Yield Makes one 6-layer cake

Number Of Ingredients 5

2 cups sweetened shredded coconut flakes
2 Coconut Cake
Robert Carter's Simple Syrup
Coconut Filling
Coconut Cake Frosting

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spread coconut flakes in an even layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake until golden, 5 to 7 minutes; set aside to cool.
  • Using a serrated knife, trim tops of cakes to make level; discard trimmings. Cut each cake into 3 even layers. Place four strips of parchment paper around perimeter of a serving plate or lazy Susan.
  • Place one layer on the cake plate. Brush with about one-fifth of the simple syrup. Spread over 2 cups of filling. Place a second layer on top. Repeat process with the next four layers and top with last remaining layer.
  • Spread top and sides of cake with frosting, keeping in mind you may not need to use all of it. Press toasted coconut into sides of cake; remove parchment paper strips. Chill cake at least 5 hours and up to 5 days. Slice immediately; bring to room temperature before serving.

COCONUT CAKE



Coconut Cake image

Celebrate with Ina Garten's snow-white Coconut Cake recipe from Barefoot Contessa on Food Network. The cream cheese frosting is sprinkled with shredded coconut.

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories     dessert

Time 1h55m

Yield 10 to 12 servings

Number Of Ingredients 17

3/4 pound (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for greasing the pans
2 cups sugar
5 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons pure almond extract
3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the pans
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup milk
4 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
1 pound cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract
1 pound confectioners' sugar, sifted
6 ounces sweetened shredded coconut

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 2 (9-inch) round cake pans, then line them parchment paper. Grease them again and dust lightly with flour.
  • In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar on medium-high speed for 3 to 5 minutes, until light yellow and fluffy. Crack the eggs into a small bowl. With the mixer on medium speed, add the eggs 1 at a time, scraping down the bowl once during mixing. Add the vanilla and almond extracts and mix well. The mixture might look curdled; don't be concerned.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the batter in 3 parts, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Fold in the 4 ounces of coconut with a rubber spatula.
  • Pour the batter evenly into the 2 pans and smooth the top with a knife. Bake in the center of the oven for 45 to 55 minutes, until the tops are browned and a cake tester comes out clean. Cool on a baking rack for 30 minutes, then turn the cakes out onto a baking rack to finish cooling.
  • For the frosting, in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese, butter, vanilla and almond extract on low speed. Add the confectioners' sugar and mix until just smooth (don't whip!).
  • To assemble, place 1 layer on a flat serving plate, top side down, and spread with frosting. Place the second layer on top, top side up, and frost the top and sides. To decorate the cake, sprinkle the top with coconut and lightly press more coconut onto the sides. Serve at room temperature.

DOLESTER MILES' COCONUT PECAN CAKE



Dolester Miles' Coconut Pecan Cake image

This is a rich, special-occasion cake that takes the traditional Southern coconut cake to another level, with ground toasted pecans in the batter and an easy-to-make Chantilly cream for frosting. It has become the signature dessert for Dolester Miles, who serves slices over a little puddle of crème anglaise at Chez Fonfon and Bottega, and sometimes at the Highlands Bar & Grill, the Birmingham, Ala., restaurants owned by Frank and Pardis Stitt. Assembly can be a challenge, so she suggests building the cake by stacking the delicate slabs of cake with filling in between each layer into a deep, round cake pan, then slipping it into the refrigerator for about an hour. The filling acts like a delicious glue. When the cake is inverted and unmolded, the edges have an even, professional appearance.

Provided by Kim Severson

Categories     cakes, dessert

Time 5h30m

Yield 12 to 14 servings

Number Of Ingredients 21

1 cup/85 grams firmly packed sweetened shredded coconut
3/4 cup/74 grams pecan halves, toasted
2 cups/402 grams granulated sugar
2 1/4 cups/287 grams all-purpose flour, plus more for the pans
1 tablespoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup/170 grams unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), softened, plus more for the pans
1/4 cup/60 milliliters cream of coconut
4 large eggs
1/4 teaspoon coconut extract
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons/270 milliliters unsweetened coconut milk
2 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
4 tablespoons/57 grams unsalted butter
1 tablespoon cream of coconut
1 cup/85 grams sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup/101 grams granulated sugar
1 cup/240 milliliters heavy cream
1/4 cup/31 grams confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon coconut extract
2 cups/170 grams sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottom of each with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper, then dust with flour, tapping out excess.
  • Finely grind the coconut in a food processor, then transfer to a bowl. Add pecans to the food processor, along with 2 tablespoons sugar, and finely grind them.
  • In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Stir in coconut and pecans.
  • In the bowl of a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat butter, cream of coconut and the remaining sugar on high speed until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition and scraping down the bowl as necessary, then beat in coconut extract.
  • Add the flour mixture in 3 batches, alternating with the coconut milk, starting and ending with flour mixture. Divide batter between the pans and smooth the top of each with a spatula. Bake until cakes are golden and a tester comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cakes cool in the pans on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of each cake, invert onto rack, and remove the parchment. Let cool completely.
  • Meanwhile, make the filling: Place egg yolks in a small heatproof bowl and set aside. In a saucepan, combine condensed milk, butter and cream of coconut and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until hot, about 4 minutes. Whisk 1/3 of the hot milk into the egg yolks. Transfer egg mixture to the saucepan of milk and whisk constantly over medium-low heat until mixture has the consistency of pudding, about 4 minutes. Do not let the custard get too thick. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the shredded coconut. Let cool completely.
  • Make the simple syrup: In a saucepan, heat sugar and 1/2 cup water, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat.
  • Assemble the layer cake in a pan: Cut each cake in half horizontally. Place one layer in the bottom of a 9-inch cake pan, moisten the top with 2 to 3 tablespoons simple syrup and spread 1/2 cup of the coconut filling in a thin, even layer with an offset spatula. Repeat to make 2 more layers of cake and filling, then place the last layer on top. Refrigerate cake for about 1 hour. To unmold, run a spatula around the edges, invert a cake plate over the top, and flip the cake over onto the plate.
  • Make the icing: Whip the cream with the confectioners' sugar and coconut extract until stiff peaks form. Spread on the top and sides of the cake and sprinkle with toasted coconut. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 730, UnsaturatedFat 12 grams, Carbohydrate 80 grams, Fat 44 grams, Fiber 2 grams, Protein 8 grams, SaturatedFat 30 grams, Sodium 301 milligrams, Sugar 62 grams, TransFat 1 gram

PRIZE-WINNING COCONUT CAKE



Prize-Winning Coconut Cake image

This recipe is very easy to make, it is very moist and sure doesn't last long! I found the basic recipe and tweaked it a bit to suit my craving for coconut flavor.

Provided by rhondalynne

Categories     Dessert

Time 45m

Yield 12-16 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/2 cup melted margarine
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 (18 1/4 ounce) box white cake mix
3 egg whites (or as called for by your cake mix)
1/3 cup oil (or as called for by your cake mix)
1 1/3 cups water (or as called for by your cake mix)
1 cup cold milk
1 (8 ounce) container Cool Whip
additional coconut, toasted, if desired

Steps:

  • Pour melted margarine in a 9 x 13 inch cake pan.
  • Sprinkle 1 cup coconut over margarine.
  • Prepare cake mix according to directions on box and pour over the coconut.
  • Bake at 350 degrees for 30- 35 minutes, until cake tests done.
  • Remove from oven, immediately pour cold milk over hot cake.
  • Let cool completely.
  • Spread cool cake with Cool Whip and top with additional coconut if desired.
  • Store in refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 422.4, Fat 26.6, SaturatedFat 9.9, Cholesterol 2.9, Sodium 426.4, Carbohydrate 43, Fiber 0.7, Sugar 31.4, Protein 4.1

GREAT-AUNT NOLA'S AWARD-WINNING COCONUT CAKE



Great-Aunt Nola's Award-Winning Coconut Cake image

Recipe from Mariah Stewarts book "Devlin's Light"

Provided by Sammie Christensen

Categories     Cakes

Time 35m

Number Of Ingredients 18

CAKE
2 1/2 c plus 2 tbl flour
3 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 c sugar
3/4 c butter
3 eggs, separated
3/4 c milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp coconut extract
3/4 c flaked coconut (soaked in 2 tbl milk)
FROSTING
1/2 c butter, softened
4 Tbsp milk
2 Tbsp coconut
1/2 tsp coconut extract
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 lb powdered sugar

Steps:

  • 1. Preheat oven to 350 degree, then grease and flour 2x 8" or 9" pans (or one 9x13" sheet pan). Add vanilla and coconut extracts to milk and set aside. Sift flour, salt and baking powder together and set aside.
  • 2. Cream butter with mixer for 30 seconds, then gradually add sugar and mix on medium speed for 5 minutes. Beat egg yolks and add to butter mixture. Add flour and milk alternately to butter mix, stirring after each addition, until smooth. Stir in coconut.
  • 3. With clean, dry beaters, beat egg whites until stiff but not dry. Gently fold into batter. Turn into pan(s), baking 25 minutes for 8" round or square pans. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto racks and cool completely before frosting.
  • 4. For frosting, soak coconut in milk. Beat butter with mixer on medium for 30 seconds. Add 1/2 of sugar, beat well. Drain coconut and add milk to butter mixture, beating well. Gradually add remaining sugar until desired consistency. Blend in extracts and coconut. Frost cake and cover with as much coconut flakes as the cake will hold.

AUNT CONNIE'S COCONUT CAKE



Aunt Connie's Coconut Cake image

Aunt Connie made this cake for special occasions. It is as wonderful as she was, and I remember her every time I make it.

Provided by Diana

Categories     Desserts     Cakes     Holiday Cake Recipes

Time 2h50m

Yield 16

Number Of Ingredients 16

3 cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 ½ cups butter, softened
3 cups white sugar
6 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (7 ounce) package sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup white sugar
½ cup butter, softened
½ cup solid vegetable shortening
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ (7 ounce) package sweetened flaked coconut

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
  • Grease a 10-inch tube pan.
  • Combine flour, salt, and baking soda in a bowl.
  • Beat 1 1/2 cup butter and 3 cups sugar with an electric mixer in a large bowl until light and fluffy. The mixture should be noticeably lighter in color.
  • Beat eggs one at a time into butter mixture, allowing each egg to blend completely before adding the next. Beat in sour cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with the last egg.
  • Gradually stir flour mixture into egg mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
  • Fold in 7 ounces flaked coconut, mixing just enough to evenly combine. Pour the batter into prepared pan.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 90 minutes. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing to cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Whisk milk and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat until mixture becomes very thick, stirring constantly, about 5 minutes; set aside to cool completely.
  • Beat 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and shortening with an electric mixer in a bowl until mixture is smooth and creamy.
  • Beat cooled milk paste and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract into sugar mixture to achieve a light and creamy frosting.
  • Spread frosting over completely cooled cake and sprinkle remaining 3 1/2 ounces flaked coconut over the frosting.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 694 calories, Carbohydrate 79.9 g, Cholesterol 138.3 mg, Fat 40 g, Fiber 2.5 g, Protein 6.6 g, SaturatedFat 23.7 g, Sodium 312.6 mg, Sugar 57.8 g

Tips:

  • To make the perfect coconut cake, use fresh coconut milk and cream of coconut.
  • Make sure to beat the egg whites until they are stiff peaks before folding them into the batter. This will give the cake a light and airy texture.
  • Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool completely before frosting it. This will help the frosting to set properly.
  • For the best flavor, chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Conclusion:

Great Aunt Nola's Award-Winning Coconut Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its moist and fluffy texture, rich coconut flavor, and creamy frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. So next time you're looking for a special dessert, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

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