Coconut Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a tropical twist to classic baking. This cake is rich, moist, and bursting with coconut flavor, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday party, holiday gathering, or a simple afternoon treat. With its creamy texture and luscious glaze, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of coconut milk and shredded coconut creates a heavenly taste that transports you straight to a tropical paradise.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this pound cake is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a festive celebration or casual get-together, this cake fits right in and enhances any spread.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful bundt shape and glossy glaze make it visually stunning for serving guests.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: The blend of butter and oil ensures that each slice remains soft and tender.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Coconut Cream Pound Cake successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and help achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: This specialized pan provides the beautiful shape and allows even baking for a perfectly cooked cake.
- Electric mixer: It makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless, resulting in a light batter that contributes to the cake’s fluffy texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking; they ensure that your ingredients are balanced for optimal flavor.

Ingredients
For the Pound Cake:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- tsp baking powder
- tsp salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 3 cups (600g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) canned coconut milk (full-fat)
- 1 tsp coconut extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (85g) sweetened shredded coconut
For the Coconut Glaze:
- 1 cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 34 tbsp canned coconut milk (or more for thinner glaze)
- tsp coconut extract
- cup (20g) sweetened shredded coconut, toasted or plain (for topping)
How to Make Coconut Cream Pound Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
This mixture will add structure to your pound cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Vegetable oil
3. Granulated sugar
Beat until light and fluffy—about 4-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture:
1. Mix well after each addition.
2. Stir in coconut extract and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding dry ingredients with canned coconut milk into the batter:
1. Begin with dry ingredients.
2. End with dry ingredients.
3. Fold in sweetened shredded coconut gently.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan:
1. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes:
1. Carefully turn it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make Coconut Glaze
In a small bowl, combine:
1. Powdered sugar
2. Canned coconut milk
3. Coconut extract
Whisk until smooth; adjust thickness as needed by adding more sugar or milk.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Drizzle glaze over cooled cake:
1. Allow it to drip down the sides.
2. Top with shredded coconut (toasted if desired).
Step 10: Serve
Slice your Coconut Cream Pound Cake and enjoy its creamy coconut flavor in every bite!
How to Serve Coconut Cream Pound Cake
Coconut Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with a twist, there are several serving suggestions to enhance its creamy coconut flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Pair the cake with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and tartness.
- Citrus Slices: Serve with slices of orange or grapefruit to balance the sweetness with a zesty kick.
With Whipped Cream
- Classic Topping: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a rich and airy texture.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Use coconut cream as an alternative for an extra hint of coconut flavor.
As a Parfait
- Layered Delight: Create a parfait by layering pieces of cake with yogurt or whipped cream and fruits in a glass.
With Ice Cream
- Creamy Indulgence: Serve warm slices alongside vanilla or coconut ice cream for an extra creamy experience.
How to Perfect Coconut Cream Pound Cake
Achieving the perfect Coconut Cream Pound Cake involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to elevate your baking game.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and coconut milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check doneness properly: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
Best Side Dishes for Coconut Cream Pound Cake
Pairing side dishes with Coconut Cream Pound Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce can add depth and richness that complements the coconut.
- Caramel Sauce: Sweet caramel sauce provides another layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with coconut.
- Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix adds texture and pairs well with the soft cake.
- Coconut Macaroons: For coconut lovers, serve these chewy treats alongside for double the coconut delight.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances the overall experience while balancing sweetness.
- Sorbets: Citrus or tropical sorbets can refresh your palate between bites of sweet cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Coconut Cream Pound Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
-
Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
-
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture and flavor. Invest in a kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurement.
-
Skipping the Creaming Step: Failing to cream butter, oil, and sugar properly can result in a dense cake. Mix until light and fluffy to incorporate air into the batter.
-
Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
-
Not Letting the Cake Cool Properly: Removing the cake from the pan too soon can cause it to break or stick. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
Freezing Coconut Cream Pound Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Coconut Cream Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Toast slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Coconut Cream Pound Cake that you might find helpful.
What makes Coconut Cream Pound Cake different?
Coconut Cream Pound Cake is rich and moist due to its use of coconut milk and shredded coconut, giving it a unique tropical flavor compared to traditional pound cakes.
Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?
Yes, you can. Fresh coconut will add a different texture but will work well as a substitute in this recipe.
How do I make Coconut Cream Pound Cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup like traditional flour for a gluten-free version of this cake.
Can I add fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Coconut Cream Pound Cake by adding fruits like pineapple or nuts like macadamia for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Coconut Cream Pound Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy coconut flavor makes it perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it with different extracts or toppings, so don’t hesitate to try your own variations!

Coconut Cream Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the tropical delight of Coconut Cream Pound Cake, a rich and moist dessert that captures the essence of paradise in every bite. This delightful cake combines creamy coconut milk and sweetened shredded coconut, resulting in an irresistibly flavorful treat perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply as an afternoon indulgence. The stunning bundt shape and glossy glaze not only make it visually appealing but also enhance its creamy texture. Whether enjoyed plain, paired with fresh fruit, or topped with whipped cream, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Elevate your baking experience with this easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees a slice of heaven on your plate.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat)
- 1 tsp coconut extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3–4 tbsp canned coconut milk (or more for thinner glaze)
- 1 tsp coconut extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted or plain (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition along with coconut extract and vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and coconut milk to the creamed mixture, folding in shredded coconut at the end.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- To make the coconut glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, canned coconut milk, and coconut extract until smooth.
- Drizzle glaze over cooled cake and top with shredded coconut.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 75g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg