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Sour Cream Coconut Cake

A moist and flavorful cake that combines the rich taste of sour cream with the tropical goodness of coconut, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 38 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Room temperature is key
  • 1.75 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream Room temp works best for blending
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon coconut extract Optional but recommended
  • 0.5 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
For the Coconut Filling
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 0.75 cup granulated sugar
  • 1.5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
For the Frosting
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 container whipped topping (8 ounces), thawed
For Garnish
  • 1 to 1.5 cups toasted coconut flakes For added crunch and flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and coconut extract, mixing until combined.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-28 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Filling and Frosting
  1. In a medium bowl, mix the sour cream, granulated sugar, and shredded coconut for the filling, then refrigerate.
  2. In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for the frosting until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping.
Assembling the Cake
  1. Once the cake layers are cool, level them if necessary. Spread half of the coconut filling between the first two layers.
  2. Place the third layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the sour cream frosting. Press toasted coconut onto the sides and sprinkle more on top.

Notes

Ensure ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.