Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts for garnish
If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t fret. You can substitute coconut milk with almond milk for a different twist, or use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option. Baking is an art of improvisation, much like the way my abuela would adjust her recipes on a whim, guided by her senses and the contents of her pantry.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step reminds me of those childhood afternoons spent in awe of my grandmother’s effortless skill with a mixing spoon.
- Add the egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, alternating with coconut milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the shredded coconut gently. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, whip the coconut cream until it forms soft peaks. Spread it generously between the cake layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
- Sprinkle the top with extra shredded coconut and nuts if desired. This final touch adds a festive flair reminiscent of the colorful gatherings of my childhood.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International