Easy Coconut Cake with Raspberry Filling Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug in cake form, this Easy Coconut Cake with Raspberry Filling is your new best friend. Its tender white cake layers are perfectly complemented by a luscious raspberry preserve center, while the creamy coconut frosting adds both texture and tropical flair. With every bite, the balance of sweet coconut, tangy raspberry, and fluffy whipped topping makes this cake an irresistible treat to enjoy any time you want to impress but keep things simple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role, whether it’s building the moist cake layers, adding a fruity zip with raspberry preserves, or creating that dreamy coconut frosting coating the whole cake.

• White cake mix: A trusted base that guarantees a moist and fluffy texture without the fuss of making cake from scratch.
• Raspberry preserves: Adds a vibrant, tangy sweetness that perfectly cuts through the richness of the cake and frosting.
• Sour cream: Brings moisture and a subtle tang that makes the frosting wonderfully creamy and balanced.
• Sugar: Sweetens the frosting just enough to marry the raspberry and coconut flavors perfectly.
• Flaked coconut: Divided for using both inside the frosting and as a pretty, tropical garnish that adds chewy texture.
• Frozen whipped topping: Light and fluffy, this makes the frosting airy and less dense, keeping the cake feeling fresh and inviting.

How to Make Easy Coconut Cake with Raspberry Filling

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

Start by preparing your white cake mix exactly according to the package directions, usually involving eggs, water, and oil. Divide the batter between two 8-inch round pans, then bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pans briefly before transferring to wire racks for complete cooling. This step is crucial because a warm cake can melt your frosting.

Step 2: Add the Raspberry Filling

Once your cake layers have cooled completely, gently spread the raspberry preserves over the surface of one cake layer, leaving about half an inch from the edges so the preserves don’t spill out when you assemble. This fruity layer is the secret that makes this cake special, infusing it with a bright burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Frosting

In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream and sugar until the sugar dissolves completely—this gives your frosting a smooth base. Stir in three-quarters of the flaked coconut, then gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to keep things airy and light. This frosting balances richness and sweetness with a tropical twist from the coconut.

Step 4: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Place the layer with raspberry preserves on your serving plate, then top with the second cake layer. Spread the coconut frosting evenly all over the top and sides of the cake. For the finishing touch, sprinkle the remaining coconut so it sticks to the frosting, giving a snowy, textured finish that looks as stunning as it tastes.

Step 5: Chill to Set

Cover the cake and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—overnight is ideal. This resting time helps the frosting develop a perfect, sliceable texture and lets those flavors meld beautifully. Trust me; the anticipation will be worth it!

How to Serve Easy Coconut Cake with Raspberry Filling

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes adds a slightly nutty depth and gorgeous golden color that contrasts the white frosting beautifully. Fresh raspberries on top also make for a pretty, fresh garnish that echoes the raspberry filling and adds a pop of color.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of tea or a mild coffee to complement its sweet and tangy layers. If you want to keep things festive, a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side enhances the creaminess and adds a cool contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the cake into individual squares and serve on patterned plates with a drizzle of raspberry sauce on the side. You could also layer the cake into a trifle glass with extra whipped topping and raspberries for an eye-catching dessert parfait version of this Easy Coconut Cake with Raspberry Filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your cake, cover any leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator. The frosting is creamy and perishable, so this will keep the cake fresh for about 3 to 4 days without drying out the layers.

Freezing

This cake freezes well if you want to make it ahead for a special occasion. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn. When properly wrapped, the cake can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

Cakes like this are best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, bring it to room temperature and serve, but avoid microwaving as it can affect the frosting texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of cake mix?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade white cake, go for it. Just make sure it bakes into two even layers and isn’t too dense, so it pairs nicely with the light coconut frosting and raspberry filling.

What type of coconut is best for this cake?

Flaked coconut works best here because it provides a perfect chewy texture without overwhelming the frosting. You can toast it slightly for added flavor, but use unsweetened if you want to keep the sweetness balanced.

Can I substitute the raspberry preserves with another fruit?

Definitely! Strawberry or blueberry preserves make great alternatives, but raspberry’s tangy brightness really shines in this particular cake combination.

Is it possible to make the frosting dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with a coconut-based yogurt or cashew cream, and use dairy-free whipped topping. The flavor will shift slightly, but it can still be delicious and creamy.

How long can I prepare the cake in advance?

You can assemble and frost the cake a day before serving to let the flavors meld and the frosting set perfectly. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Coconut Cake with Raspberry Filling is one of those joyful recipes that feels both special and approachable. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving something sweet and comforting, this cake delivers every time with its bright raspberry center and rich coconut layers. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself making it again and again to share with friends and family.

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