Coconut frosting is a fun and delicious way to elevate your baked treats. If you love coconut as much as I do, this Coconut Frosting Recipe will be your new favorite companion for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home, it’s incredibly easy to whip up. Plus, the fluffy texture and rich coconut flavor will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re planning a birthday party or just want to brighten up a weekday baking session, this frosting adds a tropical touch that everyone will adore. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on how to make this light and airy coconut frosting!
Ingredients
To create this luscious coconut frosting, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Don’t worry; they’re all pantry staples! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: Make sure it’s softened but not melted for the best texture.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: This will give your frosting that sweet, fluffy quality.
- 1/4 cup coconut cream: It adds richness and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must for enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut: This gives your frosting that delightful coconut chew.
Tips for Choosing Ingredients
- Use high-quality unsweetened coconut. It can really elevate the flavor.
- If you’re sensitive to sweetness, feel free to adjust the powdered sugar.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get right to the fun part—making the frosting!
Step 1: Cream the Butter
First, take your softened butter and place it in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You want to ensure it’s smooth so that your frosting has a beautiful texture.
Step 2: Add the Sugar
Once the butter is creamed, it’s time to gradually sift in the powdered sugar. Start with about a cup at a time to avoid a sweet cloud of sugar dust! Mix on low speed initially, then increase to medium. You’ll notice it start to come together. Keep doing this until you’ve added all the powdered sugar, which will take about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate the Coconut Cream
Now, let’s add the coconut cream. This ingredient is key to giving your frosting a rich coconut flavor. Pour it in and mix until everything is combined. The frosting may look a bit thick at this point, but don’t worry—it’s going to be perfect!
Step 4: Flavor it Up
Next up, add the vanilla extract. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Mix it until the extract is fully incorporated. You’ll want to taste it now. If it needs a little extra sweetness, you can add a bit more powdered sugar if desired.
Step 5: Fold in the Coconut
Finally, gently fold in the shredded coconut. This will give your frosting that beautiful texture and amplify the coconut taste, making each bite a delight!
Step 6: Chill if Desired
If your kitchen is warm, or if you want a stiffer frosting, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will help it set nicely.
Step 7: Frost Your Treats
Now comes the fun part! Spread this delicious coconut frosting on your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Use a spatula to create swirls or smooth it out perfectly. Don’t be shy with it—the more, the merrier!

How to Store Coconut Frosting
Once you’re done frosting your treats, you might have some leftovers. If so, here’s how to store them:
- In the Fridge: Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about a week.
- In the Freezer: You can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Thawing Instructions
To thaw out your frosting, leave it in the fridge overnight, then give it a good stir before using again.
Coconut Frosting Variations

Want to get creative? Here are a few variations to try with your Coconut Frosting Recipe:
- Chocolate Coconut Frosting: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder for a delectable chocolate twist.
- Lime Coconut Frosting: Mix in some lime zest and juice for a refreshing citrus kick.
- Pineapple Coconut Frosting: Blend in crushed pineapple for a tropical vibe.
These variations can transform your base recipe into something fun and new!
Decorating Tips
Once you’ve frosted your treats, here are some simple ideas to make them stand out:
- Toasted Coconut Topping: Toast some coconut in a pan until golden, and sprinkle it on top for an extra crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a fancy touch.
- Candied Fruit: Add small pieces of candied fruit for a colorful, tropical look.
Pairing Ideas
Coconut frosting pairs beautifully with various flavors. Here are some suggestions to inspire you:
- Chocolate Cake: The rich chocolate complements the light coconut perfectly.
- Carrot Cake: The spices in carrot cake pair wonderfully with the sweetness of coconut.
- Pineapple Cupcakes: A fun tropical dessert that sings sunny vibes.

Conclusion
Alright, now you have everything you need to make this delightful Coconut Frosting Recipe! It’s so easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether slathered on cupcakes or spirited into a cake, this frosting brings a taste of paradise wherever it goes. So go ahead and grab those ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the wonderful world of coconut-flavored goodness.
And remember, sharing is caring! Make sure to share your frosted creations with friends and family. Happy baking!
Print
Coconut Frosting
This Coconut Frosting is a delightful blend of creamy butter, sweetened coconut, and rich coconut cream. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, it adds a tropical touch to your baked goods.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Frosts approximately 24 cupcakes 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions
- Cream the softened butter in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Gradually sift in powdered sugar and mix until combined.
- Incorporate the coconut cream and mix until well combined.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes if a firmer frosting is desired.
- Spread on cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Use high-quality unsweetened coconut for better flavor.
Adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on sweetness preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg






