Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping dessert with tropical vibes and a richness that melts in your mouth, the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This luscious bundt cake combines the perfect balance of moist, tender crumb and luxurious coconut-infused frosting crowned with a generous coat of shredded coconut. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving an indulgent treat, this recipe brings together straightforward ingredients for a stunning result that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—each item is a familiar pantry staple or easy to find, and every one plays an essential role in building the flavors and textures that make the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe so irresistible.

• 3 cups cake flour: Provides a delicate, fine crumb that holds moisture beautifully.
• 2 ⅔ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while aiding in moisture retention and browning.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise with a tender lift.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for balanced leavening.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup butter, room temperature: Adds richness and keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 5 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
• 1 tablespoon coconut extract or emulsion: Infuses the cake with that unmistakable coconut aroma and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup sour cream: Boosts moisture and adds a subtle tang for balance.
• 6 ounces white chocolate chips: Melt slightly during baking for pockets of creamy sweetness.
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature: Gives the frosting a silky texture and tangy depth.
• 1 cup salted butter, room temperature: Creates a smooth and luscious frosting base.
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract: Continues the coconut celebration in the frosting.
• ¼ cup cream of coconut: Adds moisture and richness to the frosting with a subtle tropical note.
• 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut: For coating that signature coconut cake finish and delightful texture.

How to Make Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to get it ready for baking. Then, generously spray a 12-cup bundt pan with pan spray—this step is crucial to ensure your cake releases effortlessly and maintains its beautiful shape.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Getting these dry ingredients evenly mixed ahead of time guarantees consistent texture throughout your cake, so it bakes evenly without any surprises.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides and bottom to ensure everything is incorporated perfectly.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add your eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, making sure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. This approach encourages a smooth batter and a spectacular rise.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Extracts

Next, mix in the sour cream, coconut extract, and vanilla extract. They enrich the batter with creamy moisture and inject those essential coconut flavors that make this cake uniquely delightful.

Step 6: Add Flour Mixture

Slowly add your prepared flour mixture to the wet ingredients, scraping down the bowl as you go. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until the batter becomes thick and light in color, signaling it’s perfectly aerated and ready.

Step 7: Fold in White Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the white chocolate chips to prevent overworking the batter. These pockets of sweetness are a little surprise in each bite, complementing the coconut flavors perfectly.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Spread your luscious batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan, then bake it for 60 to 75 minutes. The key test? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the cake should spring back lightly when pressed. Once baked, let it cool for at least 30 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make Frosting

In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the salted butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes at medium-high speed. This luscious base will take your cake from delicious to heavenly.

Step 10: Add Powdered Sugar and Flavorings

Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined and fluffy. Finally, add the coconut extract and cream of coconut to give the frosting a tropical flair with an irresistibly silky texture.

Step 11: Assemble

Once your cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting all over the cake’s exterior. Press the shredded coconut onto the frosting, rotating the cake to coat it evenly. Doing this over a baking sheet makes clean-up a breeze and catches any stray coconut flakes!

How to Serve Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the cake’s presentation even further, consider topping it with toasted coconut flakes for a nutty crunch or a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings. Fresh tropical fruits like pineapple slices or passion fruit pulp add color and tangy freshness, making each slice feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a light tropical fruit salad or a drizzle of passion fruit coulis.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe into generous wedges, serve on decorative plates, and consider layering slices with extra frosting to create mini cake stacks. For gatherings, place it on a beautiful cake stand surrounded by fresh flowers or tropical leaves for a stunning centerpiece everyone will admire.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers fresh by storing the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is best to maintain freshness, though bring the cake back to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn. Frozen in this way, your cake can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This will soften the frosting just enough to enhance its creamy texture without melting it completely. Just perfect for a cozy treat!

FAQs

Can I substitute coconut extract with fresh coconut?

While fresh coconut adds wonderful natural flavor, coconut extract provides a more concentrated and consistent taste. For the best results in this recipe, using the extract or emulsion ensures the signature coconut flavor shines through the cake and frosting.

Is it necessary to use cake flour?

Cake flour’s lower protein content creates a tender, soft crumb that’s ideal for this coconut cake. If you don’t have cake flour, you can substitute all-purpose flour combined with cornstarch, but the texture may be slightly denser.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

With a few adjustments like using vegan butter, dairy-free sour cream, and cream cheese alternatives, you can adapt the recipe to be dairy-free. Keep in mind that the texture and richness might vary slightly.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Besides the classic toothpick test, the cake should spring back when you gently press the top. The edges will start pulling away slightly from the pan, and the aroma will be wonderfully fragrant—signals that your cake is perfectly baked.

What’s the best way to get a smooth frosting finish?

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. Beat the frosting long enough until it’s silky smooth, and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly over the cake for a professional-looking finish.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe—the way the tropical coconut flavors swirl through a moist, tender crumb and the creamy frosting ties it all together. Whether you’re sharing it with close friends, celebrating a special day, or simply treating yourself, this coconut cake will become a beloved classic in your recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to try it out and fall in love with every bite!

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