This delicious coconut cherry cake combines the tropical flavor of coconut with the sweet-tartness of cherries, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. The cake is topped with a coconut glaze that adds an extra layer of richness. Ideal for summer gatherings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup coconut milk
- ¼ cup whole milk
For the coconut glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp coconut milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan. - Prepare the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt. - Cream the butter and sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the coconut milk and whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. - Fold in the cherries:
Gently fold the halved cherries into the batter, being careful not to overmix. - Bake the cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the coconut glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, coconut milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more coconut milk. - Glaze and serve:
Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the coconut glaze over the top and garnish with extra shredded coconut if desired. Slice and enjoy!