Lemon Vanilla-Coconut Layer Cake

Lemon Vanilla-Coconut Layer Cake

Lemon Vanilla-Coconut Layer Cake

A few weeks ago, Allen and I went to Northern California to visit family and some friends. I baked this Lemon Vanilla-Coconut Layer Cake for a family gathering the day before we were set to head back home. It was the first cake I baked this summer because our apartment kitchen is so hot. I was happy to bake in an air conditioned kitchen and not have to sweat.

Lemon Cake layers just out of the oven!

I think lemon, vanilla and coconut are a perfect trifecta and ideal for a summer gathering. This Lemon Vanilla-Coconut Layer Cake is moist and has a rich lemony taste. The Whipped Vanilla Frosting is creamy and the coconut flakes coating are a perfect combination.

I just sliced the first piece of this beauty!

I came across a Lemon Cake recipe in one of my Saveur issues: http://www.saveur.com/article/Recipes/Lemon-Layer-Cake.  I made this cake for my husband's birthday last year and he loved it. Thus far, this is the best Lemon Cake I have baked. You can view my results here: http://twofrys.blogspot.com/2012/06/lemon-layer-cake.html.

My piece of cake

The Whipped Vanilla Frosting is from: http://www.askchefdennis.com/2011/12/im-dreaming-of-a-white-christmas-cake-with-sweet-peony/. I have made this frosting twice for Ina Garten's Coconut Cake and Red Velvet Cake.

To bake this cake, buy 1 package of Sweetened Coconut Flakes and go to the links above for the rest of the ingredients and directions. I baked the cake portion following the recipe from Saveur. To make the Whipped Vanilla Frosting see link above. The frosting is simple to make, but follow the instructions and measure accordingly. It will make a big difference.

A thing of beauty

When the cake layers have cooled completely, place the top layer face down and spread the Whipped Vanilla Frosting and sprinkle Coconut Flakes all around. Place the second layer with the top facing up and frost the entire cake and decorate as you wish. Coat the cake with the remaining Coconut Flakes. Refrigerate overnight if possible. Enjoy with Vanilla Bean or French Vanilla ice cream!

-Sophia/Two Frys