Sticky Coconut Cake

Name: Sticky Coconut Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Indonesian
Ingredients: 2 eggs (separated); 1¼ cup granulated sugar; 2¼ cup full-fat canned coconut milk; 3 cups shredded sweetened coconut; 1½ cup glutinous rice flour; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Published: July 8, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this cake without any hassle.
Rich Coconut Flavor: Each bite bursts with the delicious taste of coconut, ensuring a satisfying experience for coconut lovers.
Perfect for Sharing: Cut it into squares or triangles for an ideal treat to share at gatherings or parties.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it chilled from the fridge or at room temperature—either way, it’s delicious!
Gluten-Free Delight: Made with glutinous rice flour, this cake is suitable for those seeking gluten-free desserts.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Sticky Coconut Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having these items ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

8×8-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Wire rack
Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

8×8-inch baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and proper setting of the cake.
Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter, leading to a light texture.
Wire rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly without trapping moisture.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Sticky Coconut Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

2 eggs (separated)
1¼ cup granulated sugar
2¼ cup full fat canned coconut milk
3 cups shredded sweetened coconut
1½ cup glutinous rice flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Sticky Coconut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C). This ensures that your cake cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg whites and granulated sugar until combined.
Gradually mix in the full-fat coconut milk while continuing to whisk.
Add in the shredded coconut, glutinous rice flour, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well incorporated and no lumps remain in the batter—it should be thin and liquidy.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared 8×8-inch baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until set.

Step 4: Broil for Color

Carefully remove the pan from the oven once baked.
Brush egg yolks over the top of the cake.
Switch your oven setting to broil and place it back in for 5-10 minutes. Watch closely as it can brown quickly—remove when golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Set

Place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature.
Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours before serving to allow it to set properly.

Once set, cut your Sticky Coconut Cake into squares or triangles. Serve chilled from the fridge or at room temperature—enjoy every tasty bite!

How to Serve Sticky Coconut Cake

Sticky Coconut Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a slice yourself, there are many serving suggestions to elevate this dessert.

With Fresh Fruit

Mango slices: The sweetness of ripe mango complements the coconut flavor beautifully.
Berries: Serve with strawberries or blueberries for a tangy contrast.
Pineapple: A tropical twist that enhances the cake’s coconut essence.

Topped with Whipped Cream

Coconut whipped cream: Add a dollop of coconut-flavored whipped cream for extra creaminess.
Vanilla whipped cream: A classic choice that balances the rich flavors of the cake.

Drizzled with Sauce

Chocolate sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle adds an indulgent touch.
Caramel sauce: Sweet caramel pairs well with the cake’s texture and flavor.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

Mini desserts: Include Sticky Coconut Cake alongside other small treats like macarons or fruit tarts for variety.
Cheese platter: Pair with soft cheeses and nuts for a fun dessert experience.

How to Perfect Sticky Coconut Cake

To achieve the best results when making Sticky Coconut Cake, follow these helpful tips. Each suggestion will guide you towards creating a delicious dessert every time.

Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your eggs and coconut milk are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Mix thoroughly: Combine all ingredients well to avoid lumps in your batter for a smooth finish.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the cake while it bakes, as oven temperatures can vary; check for golden brown edges.
Cool before slicing: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, which helps it set better for clean cuts.
Chill overnight: Refrigerating the cake overnight enhances its flavor and texture, making it even more enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Coconut Cake

Pairing side dishes with Sticky Coconut Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Mango Sorbet: A refreshing frozen treat that complements the richness of the cake perfectly.
Coconut Chia Pudding: A light and creamy pudding that echoes the coconut theme while adding a unique texture.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright and refreshing contrast to the dense cake.
Coconut Milk Ice Cream: This dairy-free option keeps with the coconut theme and offers a creamy addition.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Sweet spring rolls filled with fruit add a crunchy element alongside your sticky delight.
Green Tea Matcha Cookies: These subtly flavored cookies provide an interesting balance to the rich sweetness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Coconut Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

Skipping the egg separation: Ensure you separate the egg whites from the yolks properly. This helps in achieving a light and fluffy texture.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Accurate measurements ensure that the cake rises and sets correctly.
Ignoring cooling time: Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting. This prevents it from falling apart and helps it set properly.
Overbaking the cake: Keep an eye on your cake during broiling. It can brown quickly, so remove it as soon as it reaches a golden color.
Using low-fat coconut milk: Stick with full-fat canned coconut milk for the best flavor and texture. Low-fat options can lead to a dry cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store the Sticky Coconut Cake in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sticky Coconut Cake

Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container.
The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sticky Coconut Cake

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Put a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and place slices in it. Cover with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sticky Coconut Cake.

Can I use different types of coconut?

Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer less sweetness, but sweetened coconut enhances the flavor of this dessert.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is ready when it’s golden brown on top and has set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I customize this Sticky Coconut Cake?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance flavor. Experiment with different additions based on your preference!

What should I serve with Sticky Coconut Cake?

It pairs well with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Coconut Cake is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it with various mix-ins or toppings. This dessert is perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself at home. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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