Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a moist, rich, and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With the creamy texture from the cream cheese and the sweet coconut flavor, this pound cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe step-by-step.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter (8 tablespoons or 1 stick), softened
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup flaked or shredded sweetened coconut
• 1/4 cup milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan.
2. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Sugar:
   • Gradually add the sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, beating until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the coconut extract.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
2. Add Dry Ingredients to Wet:
   • Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
3. Add Coconut and Milk:
   • Fold in the shredded coconut and the milk, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve:
   • Slice and serve the Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an extra treat.

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
• Coconut: Use sweetened shredded coconut for the best flavor and texture.
• Baking Time: Check the cake at 50 minutes. If it’s not done, continue baking and check every 5 minutes to prevent over-baking.

Variations

Lemon Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake

• Add Lemon Zest:
  • Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a fresh lemon flavor.
• Lemon Glaze:
  • Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice after the cake has cooled.

Chocolate Chip Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake

• Add Chocolate Chips:
  • Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey twist.

Pineapple Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake

• Add Crushed Pineapple:
  • Fold in 1/2 cup of drained crushed pineapple into the batter for a tropical variation.

Serving Suggestions

With Toppings

• With Whipped Cream:
  • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
• With Fresh Fruit:
  • Top with fresh berries, mango, or pineapple slices for added freshness.

With Beverages

• With Coffee:
  • Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or espresso for a perfect pairing.
• With Tea:
  • Serve with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I use unsweetened coconut? A: Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut, but the cake will be less sweet. Consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar to the batter.

Q: What if I don’t have coconut extract? A: You can substitute vanilla extract if you don’t have coconut extract, but the coconut flavor will be less pronounced.

Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and sweet coconut flavor, this pound cake is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, Coconut Cream Cheese Pound Cake is always delicious and satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful cake with your family and friends!