Name: Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup cherries, chopped (fresh or maraschino, well-drained); ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut

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If you’re on the hunt for a luscious treat that sings of sweet cherries and tropical coconut, look no further than this Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe. It’s a soft, buttery loaf that combines just the right balance of fruity bursts and coconutty texture, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re craving a cozy slice with your afternoon tea, a sweet breakfast treat, or a charming dessert, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create something utterly irresistible and colorful. Trust me, once you try this Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several cooking ingredients arranged on it. There is a clear glass measuring cup filled with flour on the top left, a small white bowl with a brown rim holding one whole egg in the center, a peeled banana resting next to a small white plate with red cherries on the right, and a blue bowl containing shredded coconut on the bottom left. Next to the lemon-yellow liquid in a small clear cup, there is a jar of coconut spread with a beige label in the middle. A small white bowl with brown sugar and a white bowl of thick beige batter with a small gold spoon inside are also present. A small stick of butter lies nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of baking this cake. Each component brings something special to the table: the flour forms the tender crumb, sugar adds sweetness, and cherries inject that vivid pop of flavor and color that make this loaf stand out. Coconut lends a tropical flair and delightful texture, while the eggs, butter, and milk ensure richness and moisture throughout.

1½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your loaf’s soft, tender crumb.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the natural cherry flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives your cake the perfect lift and fluffiness.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and heightens the sweetness.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds richness and keeps the crumb moist.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give structure.
½ cup milk: Moistens the batter, ensuring a soft finish.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warmth and depth.
1 cup cherries, chopped (fresh or maraschino, well-drained): The star ingredient, bursting with sweetness and color.
¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut: Bringing tropical aroma and a chewy contrast.

How to Make Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the cake bakes evenly and achieves that golden crust everyone loves. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy release and clean edges.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients first helps to distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter, so your loaf rises uniformly and has the perfect texture.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk the melted and cooled unsalted butter with the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. This mixture will add moisture and flavor, creating that tender, buttery texture that makes this loaf so irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, then gently stir until just combined. Over-mixing at this stage can lead to a dense loaf, so it’s best to stop once the batter comes together and no dry streaks remain.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Coconut

Gently fold in the chopped cherries and shredded coconut. These add both juicy bursts and that tropical chewiness, making this cake exciting in every slice. Pro tip: toss your cherries in a tablespoon of flour beforehand to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake’s fully cooked without drying out. Let your loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely – patience here pays off deliciously!

How to Serve Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe

A loaf cake placed on a wooden board with two slices cut from it, showing a soft, light yellow interior filled with red cherries. The top of the cake is white with icing drizzled in thin stripes and garnished with halved dark cherries and small green leaves. Around the board are small white bowls filled with chopped nuts and more cherries. The background shows a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe even more, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. Both add a lovely visual touch and an extra layer of flavor. Fresh cherries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side make it even more festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, but if you want to turn it into a fuller meal, serve alongside a bowl of vanilla yogurt or a fresh fruit salad. The creamy and fruity elements amplify the cake’s tropical vibe and make breakfast or dessert feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special brunch, slice the loaf into small squares or finger-sized pieces and arrange them on a pretty platter. You can drizzle a simple icing glaze over individual slices for a glossy finish or even sandwich slices with cream cheese frosting for a fun twist that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe keeps well stored at room temperature, covered tightly, for up to two days. For longer freshness, wrap it securely and refrigerate it for up to five days. This keeps it moist and flavorful, perfect for enjoying later or sharing with family.

Freezing

This loaf freezes wonderfully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for about two months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. The warmth will revive the buttery softness and amplify those yummy coconut and cherry aromas.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just fine and you don’t need to thaw them before mixing into the batter. Toss them in a little flour first to avoid sinking. They’ll give you that same vibrant flavor and color in every bite.

What if I don’t have sweetened shredded coconut?

You can substitute with unsweetened shredded coconut, but keep in mind it will be less sweet and slightly less moist. If you prefer, you can add a tablespoon or two of extra sugar to the batter to balance it out.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative and swap the milk for your favorite dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk. The cake might have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.

How do I prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom?

The trick is to toss your chopped cherries in about a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps suspend them evenly and ensures you get cherry goodness throughout the loaf.

Is this loaf suitable for breakfast as well as dessert?

Definitely! Its balanced sweetness, moist texture, and fresh fruit make it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It’s a versatile treat that feels just right anytime you want a touch of indulgence.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so heartwarming about baking a loaf packed with juicy cherries and fragrant coconut, and this Cherry Coconut Loaf Cake Recipe does exactly that with ease and elegance. It’s a wonderful way to brighten up any day, bringing smiles with each delicious slice. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll love sharing this slice of sunshine with friends and family as much as you enjoy baking it.