Raspberry Swirl Coconut Snowball Cake

Posted on May 30, 2025

Dreamy Coconut Cake with Raspberry Swirl and Snowy Coconut Flakes

Looking for a dessert that’s as dreamy as it is delicious? This Raspberry Swirl Coconut Snowball Cake is your new go-to showstopper! With its soft, fluffy coconut cake layers, creamy coconut frosting, and beautiful raspberry swirl throughout, it’s a perfect mix of tropical sweetness and tart berry goodness. Plus, the snowy coconut coating makes it look as magical as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for a party or just want to treat yourself, this cake is simple to make and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Raspberry Swirl Coconut Snowball Cake isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with flavor and easy enough for beginner bakers. The raspberry swirl adds a pop of fruity tartness that perfectly complements the rich, coconutty layers. It’s light, moist, and not overly sweet—just right! You don’t need any fancy tools, and it comes together with simple pantry ingredients. Plus, it looks stunning on any dessert table with its “snowball” finish of fluffy coconut flakes. It’s a fun, festive cake that works year-round—perfect for birthdays, brunches, holidays, or just because.

Ingredients

This recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients to create a moist, flavorful cake with a gorgeous raspberry swirl and coconut finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp coconut extract (optional, but adds great flavor!)
1 cup canned coconut milk (shake well before using)

For the Raspberry Swirl:

¾ cup raspberry preserves or seedless raspberry jam
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp coconut milk (adjust for consistency)
1 tsp vanilla or coconut extract

To Decorate:

2–3 cups sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

This cake is surprisingly simple to make, and the swirl effect makes every slice beautiful! Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and coconut extract.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and coconut milk, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Don’t overmix—just combine until smooth.

Step 3: Create the Raspberry Swirl

In a small bowl, mix raspberry preserves with lemon juice.
Pour half of the batter into the cake pans.
Spoon raspberry mixture over the batter and swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
Top with the remaining batter and lightly smooth the surface.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 28–33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar.
Mix in coconut milk and extract until smooth and fluffy. Adjust consistency if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top.
Add the second layer and frost the entire cake.
Gently press shredded coconut all over the cake until fully covered—like a fluffy snowball!

Servings and Timing

This cake is perfect for sharing and doesn’t take all day to make—sweet and simple!

Servings: Makes 10–12 slices, depending on how generous you are 😉
Prep Time: About 25 minutes
Bake Time: 28–33 minutes
Cool & Frost Time: Around 45 minutes (includes cooling before frosting)

You can easily make it a day ahead, too—the flavors get even better after sitting overnight!

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your Raspberry Swirl Coconut Snowball Cake? Here are some fun and helpful ideas:

No coconut extract? Just use more vanilla—it’ll still be delicious!
Fresh berries twist: Add a handful of fresh raspberries between the layers for extra texture and tartness.
Different jam flavors: Try strawberry, blackberry, or even passion fruit for a unique swirl.
Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Turn it into cupcakes: Divide the batter into lined muffin tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Extra creamy? Add a layer of whipped cream or mascarpone between the layers for a bakery-style finish.
Holiday vibes: Garnish with white chocolate shavings or sugared cranberries for a festive touch.

Storage

This cake stores beautifully—so you can enjoy leftovers (if there are any!).

At Room Temperature: Keep covered in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
In the Fridge: Store for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
To Freeze: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
Yes! Just mash 1 cup of raspberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a swirlable mix. Strain if you prefer it seedless.

2. Is canned coconut milk the same as the drinkable kind?
Nope! For this recipe, use full-fat canned coconut milk (not the refrigerated or light version). It gives the cake a richer flavor and texture.

3. Can I make this cake a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. Can I skip the coconut on the outside?
Of course. The coconut flakes are for texture and looks—you can leave them off or swap with white chocolate curls.

5. How do I prevent the raspberry swirl from sinking?
Don’t over-swirl! Just a few gentle figure-eights with a knife will keep the swirl visible and evenly distributed.

6. Can I use a box cake mix instead?
Yes! Use a white or vanilla cake mix and add ½ tsp coconut extract for a shortcut version.

7. Is this cake good for special occasions?
It’s perfect for birthdays, baby showers, holidays, or anytime you want a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or just want a slice of something special, this Raspberry Swirl Coconut Snowball Cake delivers all the feel-good vibes. It’s light, luscious, and loaded with flavor—plus, it’s a total showstopper with its snowy coconut finish and pretty pink swirls. Best of all? It’s surprisingly easy to make.

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Raspberry Swirl Coconut Snowball Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe