If you’re a coconut lover, then this Coconut Cream Dream Cake is the dessert of your dreams! A perfect blend of fluffy cake, creamy coconut filling, and whipped topping, this cake is indulgent, tropical, and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake will make any day feel like a celebration.
Why You’ll Love Coconut Cream Dream Cake
✔ Fluffy and Moist – This cake is super moist and tender thanks to the coconut cream filling.
✔ Tropical Flavor – The combination of coconut cake and coconut cream is the perfect match for those who love coconut.
✔ Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and easy steps, this cake comes together quickly.
✔ No Bake Option – While the cake requires baking, you can refrigerate the filling to set, making this an easy dessert to prepare ahead of time.
✔ Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the sweet and creamy texture of this dream cake!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box of white cake mix
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat is best)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Coconut Cream Filling:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant coconut cream pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (for garnish)
- ½ cup toasted coconut (for garnish)How to Make Coconut Cream Dream Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, coconut milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to mix everything together until smooth.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut to give the cake that signature coconut flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Coconut Cream Filling
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the instant coconut cream pudding mix and milk.
- Refrigerate the pudding mixture for about 5 minutes to allow it to set.
- Once the pudding has set, fold in the whipped topping and shredded coconut. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled completely, use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake. This will allow the coconut cream filling to soak into the cake and add extra moisture.
- Spread the coconut cream filling evenly over the top of the cake, making sure it fills all the holes and covers the surface.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the filling to set and the cake to chill.
Step 4: Top the Cake
- Once the filling has set, spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the cake.
- For an extra touch of coconut flavor, sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the whipped topping. To toast the coconut, simply place it in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. The Coconut Cream Dream Cake is best enjoyed when it’s cold and the filling is perfectly set!Recipe Variations
✔ Use Different Cake Mix – For a slightly different twist, try using a butter cake mix or a coconut cake mix instead of a white cake mix.
✔ Add Pineapple – If you love the combination of coconut and pineapple, you can add some crushed pineapple to the filling for a tropical flavor boost.
✔ Use Fresh Coconut – For a more natural, flavorful twist, try using fresh coconut in place of the shredded sweetened coconut.
✔ Whipped Cream Topping – If you prefer homemade whipped cream, you can make it with heavy cream and a bit of sugar for a richer topping.
✔ Chocolate Coconut Dream Cake – Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and coconut cream filling for a chocolate-coconut hybrid dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This Coconut Cream Dream Cake is perfect for any occasion. Here are a few ideas for serving:
✔ Birthday Parties – This cake is festive and perfect for a tropical-themed birthday party.
✔ Holiday Desserts – Make this cake for Christmas or Easter for a sweet treat that everyone will love.
✔ Picnics and Potlucks – It’s an easy dessert to take along to outdoor events and parties.
✔ Afternoon Tea – Serve with a cup of your favorite tea for a decadent dessert during afternoon tea time.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge – Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The cake gets even more moist and flavorful after it sits for a bit!
- Freezer – This cake freezes well, so you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned coconut milk for this recipe?
Yes, canned coconut milk works perfectly in this recipe and gives the cake a rich coconut flavor.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake actually benefits from being made a day ahead. The flavors will meld, and the filling will set perfectly when refrigerated overnight.
3. Can I use non-dairy whipped topping?
Absolutely! If you want a dairy-free version, you can use coconut whipped cream or any dairy-free whipped topping.
4. Can I make the coconut cream filling without the pudding mix?
While the instant pudding mix makes the filling creamy and smooth, you can make your own homemade coconut custard filling if preferred. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before adding the whipped topping.
This Coconut Cream Dream Cake is a dreamy, tropical dessert that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply treating yourself to something sweet, this cake is sure to be a hit. With its fluffy coconut cake, creamy coconut filling, and whipped topping, it’s everything you could want in a dessert. Give this easy and delicious recipe a try, and you’ll be dreaming of it for days!