Lemon Coconut Cake

Tender, Fluffy Lemon Coconut Cake is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor combined with the rich essence of coconut. Perfect for celebrations or casual get-togethers, this cake stands out with its moist texture and creamy frosting. The combination of fresh lemon zest and shredded coconut makes it a refreshing dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The blend of lemon and coconut creates a bright and zesty flavor profile.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy success.
• Versatile Dessert: Suitable for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
• Gorgeous Presentation: Topped with cream cheese frosting and garnished with coconut and lemon zest, it’s visually appealing!
• Rich in Texture: The moist loaf cake paired with creamy frosting offers a delightful contrast.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Lemon Coconut Cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pan
• Zester or grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes it easy to achieve fluffy batter by thoroughly mixing the ingredients.
• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for our lovely Lemon Coconut Cake.

Ingredients

Tender, Fluffy Lemon Loaf Cake Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting, Coconut and Lemon Zest!

For the Cake

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup coconut yogurt (I used full-fat coconut Greek yogurt)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• Finely grated zest of 1 medium-large lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

For the Frosting

• 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 1-2 tablespoons milk or half and half

For Garnish

• Shredded coconut and lemon zest (optional garnish)

How to Make Lemon Coconut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt

This will help ensure your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. Coconut yogurt
2. Granulated sugar
3. Eggs
4. Lemon zest
5. Lemon juice
6. Melted coconut oil
7. Almond extract

Use a hand mixer or stand mixer until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Shredded Coconut

Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Before Frosting

Once baked, let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Cream cheese
2. Unsalted butter
3. Powdered sugar
4. Almond extract
5. Finely grated lemon zest
6. Milk or half and half

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Frost Your Cake

Once completely cooled, spread your cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake. Garnish with additional shredded coconut and lemon zest if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Coconut Cake!

How to Serve Lemon Coconut Cake

Serving Lemon Coconut Cake can elevate your dessert experience, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance the enjoyment of this delicious cake.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a fresh and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the lemony zing.

Drizzle with Lemon Glaze

• A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can intensify the citrus flavor and add extra sweetness.

Add Toasted Coconut Flakes

• Sprinkling toasted coconut on top gives an extra crunch and enhances the tropical theme of the cake.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or coconut ice cream pairs beautifully, creating a creamy contrast to the fluffy cake.

How to Perfect Lemon Coconut Cake

To ensure your Lemon Coconut Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for baking success.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right proportions for the best texture.
• Use room temperature eggs: Bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps to create a fluffier batter.
• Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool before frosting prevents melting and ensures cleaner slices.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Coconut Cake

Lemon Coconut Cake pairs well with various side dishes that can balance its sweetness and enhance your dessert spread. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that provides a light contrast to the richness of the cake.
2. Ice Cream Sundae
   Elevate your dessert by serving it alongside an ice cream sundae topped with nuts and chocolate sauce.
3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet flavors of the cake.
4. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats echo the coconut flavor in your cake, making for a cohesive dessert experience.
5. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness of lemon sorbet can cleanse your palate after enjoying this rich dessert.
6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   The sweetness of chocolate complements the tangy lemon, creating a perfect pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Coconut Cake can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the zest: The lemon zest provides essential flavor. Always use fresh zest for the best results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the texture of your cake. Ensure eggs and yogurt are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Neglecting oven temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can ruin your cake. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.

Freezing Lemon Coconut Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Lemon Coconut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Lemon Coconut Cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it has xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it.

What can I use instead of coconut yogurt?

You can use regular yogurt or sour cream as an alternative, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I add more coconut flavor?

Consider adding extra shredded coconut or using coconut extract in addition to the almond extract in the batter.

Can I decorate my Lemon Coconut Cake differently?

Absolutely! You can use fresh fruit, edible flowers, or even a drizzle of lemon glaze instead of frosting for a lighter touch.

How should I serve Lemon Coconut Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own or paired with whipped cream and fresh berries for added color and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Coconut Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its tender crumb and zesty flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual tea time. Don’t hesitate to customize it; you can add nuts or switch up the toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every mouthful!