Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tropical flavors of coconut with the tartness of raspberries. This cake features a moist coconut-flavored base, swirled with vibrant raspberry preserves, and topped with a fluffy coconut cream cheese frosting. The exterior is generously coated with shredded coconut, giving it a snowball-like appearance. Ideal for spring celebrations or as a showstopper at any gathering, this cake offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Its elegant presentation and delicious taste make it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts.
For the Coconut Cake:
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
For the Raspberry Swirl:
½ cup raspberry preserves (slightly warmed for easier swirling)
For the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon coconut extract
3 tablespoons canned coconut milk
4½ cups confectioners’ sugar
For Decorating:
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven:
Grease and flour a 10-cup dome-shaped cake pan or a heatproof glass bowl. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Mixture:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Incorporate Shredded Coconut:
Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
Assemble the Cake:
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Spoon the warmed raspberry preserves over the batter in dollops. Pour the remaining batter over the preserves. Using a skewer or knife, gently swirl the preserves into the batter to create a marbled effect.
Bake the Cake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 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 Frosting:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, coconut extract, and coconut milk. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, ½ cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Frost the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread a generous layer of the coconut cream cheese frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate:
Press the sweetened shredded coconut into the frosting to coat the cake evenly. If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch.
Serve:
Slice and serve the cake at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful combination of coconut and raspberry flavors in every bite.
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 35g