Dreamy Coconut Cake (Print-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Cake

01 - 1 cup coconut milk
02 - 1 teaspoon coconut extract
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 - 4 large eggs at room temperature
05 - ½ teaspoon salt
06 - 2½ teaspoons baking powder
07 - 2 cups granulated sugar
08 - 1 cup softened unsalted butter
09 - 2½ cups plain flour

→ Toppings

10 - Coconut frosting or whipped cream for spreading on top
11 - 1 cup shredded coconut (can be toasted or as is)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prep two 9-inch pans by either greasing and flouring them or lining them with parchment. This makes removing the cakes easier.
02 - Take a medium-sized bowl and stir the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Mix well to spread the ingredients evenly.
03 - Use a large bowl and mix the butter with the sugar on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. It should be fluffy and pale by the end, which helps create a soft texture.
04 - Beat in eggs one at a time, making sure each is incorporated properly before adding the next. Stir in the coconut and vanilla extracts afterward.
05 - Gradually add the flour mixture in three portions to the butter mix, alternating with the coconut milk in two portions. Start and finish with the dry mix, but don’t overdo the mixing to avoid losing the cake's lightness.
06 - Pour the batter equally into the pans and bake for around 25-30 minutes. A toothpick stuck in the center should come out clean to show it’s ready.
07 - Leave the cakes in their pans to cool for 10 minutes, then move them to a rack to fully cool before you add any frosting.
08 - Spread your frosting or whipped cream on top and sides. Sprinkle the shredded coconut on top, lightly pressing it on the sides to stick.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - For nutty-tasting coconut, toast it at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until golden.
02 - Keep in a sealed container at room temperature for two days, or refrigerate it to stay fresh longer.
03 - You can freeze the cake layers (unfrosted) for up to three months and use them later.