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Lemon Cake with Coconut Frosting

lemon cake icing

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup coconut cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
  6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. Cool in pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. For the frosting, toast 1/4 cup of shredded coconut in a dry skillet until golden brown. Set aside.
  10. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
  11. Add coconut cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until well combined.
  12. Fold in the remaining untoasted shredded coconut.
  13. Spread frosting over completely cooled cake.
  14. Decorate with toasted coconut flakes.
  15. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for cleaner slices.

Notes

  • For the most flavorful cake, use fresh lemons for both zest and juice.
  • Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning for the best texture.
  • The cake can be made one day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cake coconut frosting, coconut frosting recipe, lemon cake icing, zesty lemon frosting, tropical lemon dessert