Easy Coconut Easter Cake Amazing Festive Treat

This post may contain affiliate links. For more, see our Affiliate Disclaimer.

Last spring, I set this Easy Coconut Easter Cake right in the center of our brunch table, and everyone went quiet for a second. The green coconut grass, the pastel eggs, that soft coconut crumb. It looks fancy, yet it comes together with simple steps and everyday ingredients.

Why This Easy Coconut Easter Cake Works

A Festive Easter Dessert Without the Fuss

First, this Easy Coconut Easter Cake keeps things simple. You mix the batter in one bowl, bake two layers, then frost and decorate.

Also, you do not need special tools. A hand mixer and two round pans handle the job. As a result, you get a bakery style Easter dessert without stress.

Moist, Tender Texture With Rich Coconut Notes

Because this Easy Coconut Easter Cake uses butter, milk, and extra egg yolks, the crumb turns out soft and rich. Meanwhile, the coconut extract adds a gentle tropical flavor that does not overpower.

In fact, the balance between vanilla and coconut gives every bite warmth and sweetness. So you taste coconut clearly, yet the cake still feels classic.

Family Friendly Decorating Anyone Can Do

Then comes the fun part. You tint shredded coconut green and scatter candy eggs on top.

Even kids can help press the coconut onto the frosting. As a result, this Easy Coconut Easter Cake becomes more than dessert. It becomes a little Easter project.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Cake and Frosting

Key Ingredients for the Cake Batter

For the cake layers, gather:
7 oz unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
3 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp coconut extract
4 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk

Because butter and sugar cream together first, they create a light base. Then eggs add structure, while milk keeps the batter smooth.

Mascarpone Frosting Essentials

For the frosting, you need:
12 oz mascarpone cheese
6 oz unsalted butter, softened
5 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Mascarpone makes the frosting creamy and mild. Meanwhile, powdered sugar thickens it into a spreadable texture that holds decorations well.

Decorations That Make It Easter Perfect

To finish the Easy Coconut Easter Cake, grab:
4 oz sweetened shredded coconut
Green food coloring
12 oz robin egg candies or similar egg shaped candy

The green coconut looks like grass. Then the candy eggs sit right on top, which instantly gives that Easter feel.

Step by Step: How to Make This Easy Coconut Easter Cake

Mixing the Batter Correctly

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then grease and line two 8 or 9 inch round pans with parchment.

Next, beat butter, sugar, salt, and baking powder until light and fluffy. This step matters, so mix for several minutes.

Then add eggs and yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After that, alternate flour and milk, mixing just until combined. Finally, stir in vanilla and coconut extracts. Do not overmix.

Baking the Layers to Soft Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between pans. Then smooth the tops.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean. Meanwhile, your kitchen will smell like sweet coconut and vanilla.

Let cakes cool briefly in pans. Then transfer them to racks and cool completely.

Whipping Up the Creamy Mascarpone Frosting

Beat mascarpone and softened butter together until smooth and airy.

Next, gradually add sifted powdered sugar. Mix until creamy and thick. If needed, add a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.

The frosting should feel soft but stable.

Assembling, Crumb Coating, and Chilling the Cake

Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread frosting evenly on top. Then set the second layer over it.

Apply a thin crumb coat all around. After that, chill the cake for about 20 minutes. This step helps lock in crumbs and keeps the final layer neat.

Adding Coconut Grass and Candy Eggs

Tint shredded coconut with green food coloring. Toss it until evenly colored.

Press the coconut over the top of the cake. Then arrange candy eggs on top.

Refrigerate the Easy Coconut Easter Cake for at least 30 minutes so the frosting sets.

Moist Easy Coconut Easter Cake slice topped with green coconut and pastel candy eggs.

Tips for Success and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Preventing Dense or Overmixed Batter

Once you add flour, mix gently. Otherwise, the cake turns dense.

Also, scrape the bowl so everything blends evenly without extra stirring.

Ensuring Frosting Stays Smooth and Spreadable

Make sure both mascarpone and butter sit at room temperature. If they feel too cold, the frosting may look lumpy.

However, do not let them melt. Soft, not greasy, works best.

Cooling and Handling Cake Layers Properly

Always cool layers fully before frosting. If they feel warm, the frosting will slide.

So give yourself time. The Easy Coconut Easter Cake rewards patience.

Ingredient Swaps and Easy Variations

Using Cream Cheese Instead of Mascarpone

If you cannot find mascarpone, use cream cheese instead. The flavor turns slightly tangy, yet still delicious.

In fact, many readers prefer that sharper taste.

Adjusting Milks, Extracts, and Sweetness Levels

You can use any milk you have. However, if you use buttermilk, reduce the baking powder slightly.

Also, adjust coconut extract to taste if you want stronger flavor.

Changing Up Decorations for Different Occasions

Although this Easy Coconut Easter Cake shines at Easter, you can change toppings. Use pastel sprinkles, toasted coconut, or fresh berries.

For more festive ideas, check out my Easter Peep Cake with buttercream and pastel decorations or this colorful Easter Poke Cake with pastel swirls and creamy filling.

Serving Suggestions for Easter Celebrations

What to Pair With Coconut Easter Cake

Serve this Easy Coconut Easter Cake after ham or roasted lamb. Meanwhile, fresh berries and coffee balance the sweetness nicely.

You can also pair it with light cookies like these Spring Blossom Cookies Easter treat.

How to Cut and Present the Cake for Best Results

Dip your knife in warm water before slicing. Then wipe it clean between cuts.

As a result, each slice looks neat and shows off those soft layers.

Storage, Make Ahead, and Freezing Instructions

Storing the Decorated Cake

Store the Easy Coconut Easter Cake covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days.

Because of the mascarpone frosting, keep it chilled.

Freezing Unfrosted Layers

You can freeze unfrosted layers up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap first.

Then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

Bringing Cake to Room Temperature Before Serving

Before serving, let the Easy Coconut Easter Cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

This step softens the frosting and improves texture.

Total time runs about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, including cooling and chilling. This cake makes about 12 servings. The entire cake contains roughly 6700 to 7300 calories, 70 to 85 grams protein, 320 to 360 grams fat, and 950 to 1050 grams carbohydrates.

You can also see another version on the Easy Coconut Easter Cake recipe page for comparison. For another layered coconut dessert, try my Coconut Custard Cake – moist layered coconut dessert.

If you love themed desserts, you might also enjoy this playful Easter Cookie Cake festive dessert or these cute Egg Easter Cupcakes with robin’s egg frosting. For more daily baking ideas, follow along on Pinterest and join us on Facebook.

FAQs About Easy Coconut Easter Cake

Can I make Easy Coconut Easter Cake a day ahead?

Yes. In fact, it tastes even better the next day. Just store it covered in the refrigerator.

Can I use sweetened coconut inside the batter?

You can, however it will change the texture. This recipe works best with extract in the batter and coconut on top.

How do I keep the cake from sliding?

Chill after the crumb coat and always frost fully cooled layers.

Can I make this Easy Coconut Easter Cake in a 9×13 pan?

Yes, although baking time may vary slightly. Check with a toothpick around 30 minutes.

More Such Recipes

Easy Coconut Easter Cake slice with fork and pastel candy eggs
A moist slice of Easy Coconut Easter Cake topped with pastel eggs and green coconut.

Conclusion

This Easy Coconut Easter Cake brings together soft coconut flavor, creamy mascarpone frosting, and cheerful decoration in one simple bake. Although it looks impressive, it follows easy steps you can handle in your own kitchen. So gather your candy eggs, tint that coconut grass, and let this cake become part of your Easter table.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Coconut Easter Cake with pastel candy eggs and green coconut grass topping

Easy Coconut Easter Cake Amazing Festive Treat


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: kai
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Easy Coconut Easter Cake with a soft, tender crumb, rich coconut flavor, creamy mascarpone frosting, and festive green coconut grass topped with candy eggs. Perfect for Easter brunch or spring celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale

7 oz unsalted butter, softened

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar

1 tsp salt

2 1/2 tsp baking powder

3 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp coconut extract

4 large eggs

2 large egg yolks

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups milk

12 oz mascarpone cheese

6 oz unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)

5 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

4 oz sweetened shredded coconut

Green food coloring

12 oz robin egg candies or similar egg-shaped candy


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans with parchment.

2. Beat butter, sugar, salt, and baking powder until light and fluffy.

3. Add eggs and yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Alternate adding flour and milk, mixing just until combined. Stir in vanilla and coconut extracts.

5. Divide batter evenly between pans and bake 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Cool briefly in pans, then transfer to racks and cool completely.

7. Beat mascarpone and softened butter until smooth and airy.

8. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until creamy and spreadable.

9. Layer cakes with frosting between them.

10. Apply a thin crumb coat and chill for 20 minutes.

11. Tint shredded coconut green and press over the top of the cake.

12. Arrange candy eggs on top.

13. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Cream cheese can replace mascarpone for a tangier frosting.

Any milk works. If using buttermilk, slightly reduce the baking powder.

Do not overmix after adding flour to keep the cake tender.

Ensure cake layers are fully cooled before frosting.

Store covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days.

Unfrosted cake layers can be frozen up to 3 months.

Let refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Easter Desserts Recipes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 78g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 85g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star