Next, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the coconut milk. Start and end with the flour, mixing until just combined—over-mixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it to be light and airy! Gently fold in the shredded coconut.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills my kitchen during baking is simply divine! Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe a few times, and my biggest tip is to use fresh, high-quality coconut. The flavor is just so much richer, and it makes a world of difference! If you can find it, unsweetened shredded coconut gives a more natural taste. I also recommend letting your eggs and butter come to room temperature for the best texture—this way, they incorporate more easily and create a lighter cake.
Another thing I’ve learned is to keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so while I usually set it for 50 minutes, I suggest checking for doneness a little earlier, especially around the 45-minute mark. I’ve had cakes that looked perfect but were a tad underbaked in the center.
Lastly, for an extra touch, I love to add a light glaze made from powdered sugar and coconut milk over the cooled cake. It not only enhances the sweetness but adds a glossy finish that makes it look so inviting!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made when I first tried baking this loaf was overlooking the importance of properly measuring the flour. I ended up using too much, which resulted in a dense cake that didn’t rise well. The best way to measure flour is by fluffing it first, then spooning it into your measuring cup before leveling it off—no scooping, as that packs the flour down and can lead to disaster!(See the next page below to continue…)