Bring the tropics to your kitchen with this mouthwatering Orange Coconut Cake! This layered beauty delivers a burst of bright citrus flavor with each bite, rounded out by the tropical warmth of toasted coconut. A treat for both the eyes and the taste buds, this delightful cake is perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or any time you feel like spoiling your loved ones with something sweet and extraordinary.

Why This Recipe Works:

The magic of this cake is in the harmony of flavors. The slightly tart orange balances the sweetness of the cake, while the toasted coconut gives a pleasant crunch and a hint of nuttiness that contrasts with the cake’s soft, fluffy texture. It’s a match made in tropical heaven!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh orange juice
Zest of 1 orange

For the Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish:

1 cup toasted shredded coconut

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the orange zest.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add these dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the orange juice, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out clean.

While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.

Once the cake layers are cooled completely, spread the frosting between the layers, on top, and around the sides of the cake. Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut over the top and pat gently onto the sides of the cake.

This Orange Coconut Cake is like a vacation in every slice, promising a sweet escape with each mouthful. It’s an explosion of flavors that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to get a piece. Enjoy the process of making it, and even more, the joy it brings to your table!