Snowball Cake Raspberry Coconut (Printer-Friendly)

Soft vanilla cake layered with raspberry preserves and coconut flakes for a beautiful, memorable treat.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Cake

01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
05 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
08 - 1 cup whole milk

→ Swirl

09 - 1/2 cup raspberry preserves, slightly warmed

→ Coating

10 - 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
11 - Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Generously grease a 10-cup dome cake pan or oven-safe bowl with butter and dust with flour. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar with a stand or hand mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and whole milk to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
03 - Spread half the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Spoon warmed raspberry preserves in small dollops over the surface. Pour the remaining batter on top. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the preserves through the batter without overmixing.
04 - Place the cake in the center of the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
05 - Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully invert onto a wire rack and allow to cool completely before coating.
06 - Brush the cooled cake lightly with water or simple syrup to help the coconut adhere, if needed. Press sweetened shredded coconut all over the outside of the cake until fully covered. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
07 - Cut the cake into slices using a sharp serrated knife. Serve with tea, coffee, or fresh fruit as desired.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - Warm the raspberry preserves gently for easier swirling, and do not over-swirl in order to retain the visual contrast.
02 - Ensure the cake is completely cool before coating or the coconut will not adhere evenly.