Classic Coconut Layer Cake

📜 Collection: UK3 | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Desserts A delightful from-scratch, three-layer white butter cake made with beaten egg whites for a light texture. This makes a tender, delicate base for any classic coconut cake.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
25 mins35 mins10 mins1 3-layer 9-inch cake

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Three 9-inch round cake pans
  • Medium bowl
  • Large bowl
  • Clean bowl
  • Wire rack
  • Electric mixer

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
1 cupButterSoftened
2 cupsSugarGranulated
4Egg YolksLarge
4Egg WhitesLarge
1 1/2 teaspoonsVanillaExtract
2 2/3 cupsCake FlourSifted
1/2 teaspoonBaking PowderSifted
1/2 teaspoonSaltSifted for batter
1/4 teaspoonSaltFor egg whites
1 cupMilkRoom temperature

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation and Dry Ingredients

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a separate bowl, sift together the 2 2/3 cups cake flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Mixing the Batter

  1. In a large bowl, cream the 1 cup butter. Gradually add the 2 cups sugar and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  2. Add the 4 egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla.
  3. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the 1 cup milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.

Step 3: Whipping and Folding Egg Whites

  1. In a separate, clean bowl, beat the 4 egg whites with the 1/4 teaspoon salt until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  2. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter in three additions until no white streaks remain.

Step 4: Baking and Cooling

  1. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
  2. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  3. Cool in the pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes before inverting them to cool completely until ready to frost.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store the cooled cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month before frosting.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card