Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting
There’s something truly special about sharing a slice of Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting with loved ones. Every time I make this cake, it reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and joyful memories. As a child, I would eagerly await the moment when my grandmother would pull this delightful treat out of the oven, the sweet aroma filling the air. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of togetherness. The first bite takes me back to those warm family afternoons, where the simple act of enjoying a slice of cake turned into a cherished tradition. I still remember how we would sit around the table, conversation flowing as easily as the frosting on the cake. The combination of flavors in this Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting is simply irresistible, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, holiday feast, or just a regular Sunday, this cake always steals the show.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
15 mins
20 mins
Easy
350 kcal
3 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
18 g
9-inch Round Cake Pan, Hand Mixer
Why We Love This Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting
Deliciously Moist and Flavorful
The secret to this cake’s incredible taste lies in its moistness. The sour cream adds a richness that makes each bite melt in your mouth, while the sweetened coconut brings a delightful texture that contrasts perfectly with the smooth frosting.
Perfect for Any Occasion
What I love about the Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting is its versatility. It’s suitable for birthdays, holidays, or even just a casual afternoon tea. No matter the occasion, this cake always receives rave reviews, and it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests.
Easy to Make
You don’t need to be a baking expert to create this stunning cake. The instructions are simple, and it requires minimal prep time, making it accessible for anyone who wants to whip up something special without spending all day in the kitchen.
Family Tradition
This cake has been passed down through generations in my family. Each time I bake it, I feel connected to my roots and the love that has been shared over many family dinners. It’s not just about the cake; it’s about the memories created around it.
Stunning Presentation
With its fluffy frosting and scattered coconut on top, the Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting is a showstopper. You can easily dress it up with decorative sprinkles or edible flowers to make it even more festive and appealing.
Great for Leftovers
One of my favorite things about this cake is how well it keeps. The flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge, making leftovers something to look forward to. Each slice tastes just as good, if not better, the next day!
Main Ingredients for Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting

The ingredients for this Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting are simple yet impactful. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the cake’s unique flavor and texture. The key players are the Golden Butter Cake Mix, which offers a solid foundation, and the sour cream, which adds moistness and tang. Together, these ingredients create a cake that is both delightful and satisfying.
- 1 box Golden Butter Cake Mix: This is the base of your cake, providing a sweet and buttery flavor that complements the coconut beautifully.
- 2 cups sugar: This sweetener enhances the overall flavor and contributes to the cake’s moist texture.
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream: Adding richness and moisture, this ingredient is essential for a tender cake.
- 1 (14-oz) bag sweetened coconut: The star ingredient that adds flavor and texture, making the cake undeniably coconutty.
- 1 (12-oz) container Cool Whip: This light topping is perfect for frosting the cake, providing a creamy finish that balances the sweetness.
The Process for Making Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting

Making the Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting is truly a labor of love, but the end result is so worth it. Let’s walk through the steps together so you can create this delicious cake in your own kitchen. Follow these directions for a successful bake!
- Start by preparing the night before. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups sugar, 1 (16-oz) container sour cream, and 1 (14-oz) bag sweetened coconut. This mixture needs to sit overnight in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Cover the bowl tightly to avoid any odors from permeating the mixture.
- The next day, preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the Golden Butter Cake Mix box. Prepare two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them lightly. This ensures that your cakes release easily after baking.
- Now, it’s time to make the cake! Follow the package instructions for the Golden Butter Cake Mix. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. You’ll be amazed at how the sweet aroma starts to fill your kitchen as the cakes bake.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool completely in the pans for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then, gently remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before moving on to the next step.
- Once the cakes are cool, carefully slice each layer in half horizontally. You should now have a total of four layers. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful layered look when assembling the cake.
- Get the sour cream coconut mixture from the fridge. Remove 1 cup of this mixture and set it aside for the frosting. Use the remaining mixture to spread between the layers of the cake. It’s going to add a delightful surprise with every bite!
- To prepare your frosting, blend the Cool Whip and the reserved cup of sour cream coconut mixture together in a bowl. Mix until smooth and fluffy—it should be light and airy.
- Now it’s time to assemble your cake! Place the first layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of the frosting mixture on top, and repeat this process with the remaining layers. Finish off by frosting the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- For the finishing touch, sprinkle additional sweetened coconut on top of the frosted cake. This not only adds flavor but also makes it look visually appealing.
- Finally, place the assembled cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Letting it chill for a bit allows the flavors to come together wonderfully!
Things Worth Knowing
- Chilling is Key: The overnight chilling of the sour cream and coconut mixture enhances the flavor and creaminess, making it richer.
- Layering Technique: Try to slice your layers evenly to ensure a balanced cake structure.
- Frosting Tip: For a smoother frosting application, use a spatula dipped in hot water to create that perfect finish.
- Storage: Keep the cake in the refrigerator. It can last for several days, and the flavors become even better over time.
Ways to Customize

The Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting can be customized in several delightful ways. You can adjust the flavors to suit your preferences or even mix things up seasonally. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Add a Lime Zest: Incorporate some lime zest into the sour cream mixture for a bright, zesty twist that complements the coconut beautifully.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent touch.
- Fruit Layering: Add layers of fresh fruit such as strawberries or pineapple between the cake layers for a tropical flair.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts between layers or on top for added texture and flavor.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Use colorful sprinkles for festive occasions, making it visually appealing for parties.
- Seasonal Variations: Consider swapping the coconut for seasonal flavors like pumpkin or berry-based recipes to keep things fresh.
- Frosting Variations: Experiment with different types of frosting or whipped toppings to create your own signature style.
What to Serve Alongside Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad pairs well with the sweetness of the cake, providing a balance of flavors.
- Ice Cream: Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Tea or Coffee: This cake is perfect with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent option for afternoon gatherings.
- Birthday Parties: The Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting is a fantastic centerpiece for birthday celebrations, guaranteed to impress guests.
- Seasonal Celebrations: It fits beautifully into spring and summer gatherings, adding a touch of lightness to your dessert table.
- Picnics and BBQs: Bring this cake along for outdoor events; it’s easy to transport and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Leftover Storage: Ensure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the cake moist and fresh.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting truly embodies the essence of comfort food. Its rich flavors and moist texture will undoubtedly please every palate at your table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories with friends and family. Baking this cake will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring joy and warmth to any gathering.

Coconut Cake with Sour Cream Frosting
Equipment
- 9-inch Round Cake Pan
- Hand Mixer
Ingredients Â
- 1 box Golden Butter Cake Mix
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 container (16 oz) sour cream
- 1 bag (14 oz) sweetened coconut
- 1 container (12 oz) Cool Whip
InstructionsÂ
- The night before making the cake, combine sugar, sour cream, and sweetened coconut. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Prepare the Golden Butter Cake Mix according to package directions for two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans. Let cool completely. Split each layer into two for a total of 4 cake layers.
- Remove the sour cream coconut mixture from the refrigerator. Remove 1 cup of the mixture and set aside.
- Spread the remaining sour cream coconut mixture in between the cake layers.
- Blend the Cool Whip and 1 cup of the reserved sour cream coconut mixture together. Frost the cake with this mixture.
- Place the cake in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Storage: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap it well.
- Pairing: Serve with fresh fruit or ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Variations: Consider adding lime zest or chocolate drizzle for an extra flavor kick!
