Snowball Cake — Classic Coconut Holiday Dessert

Hello and welcome back to my kitchen — Chef James here from Tiramisucake.com 👨‍🍳❄️
When the air turns crisp and the holiday season approaches, I always find myself reaching for recipes that feel comforting, nostalgic, and just a little magical. That’s exactly why this Snowball Cake — Classic Coconut Holiday Dessert holds such a special place in my heart. With its fluffy layers, creamy frosting, and snowy coconut coating, it looks like winter on a plate.

Snowball Cake is one of those desserts that doesn’t need trends or reinvention. It belongs proudly among our most loved cakes and pastries, standing shoulder to shoulder with timeless bakes that generations have enjoyed. In many American homes—especially in the South—this cake appears year after year, quietly stealing the spotlight at Christmas dinners and winter potlucks.

What I love most is how approachable it is. You don’t need fancy tools or professional skills, just good ingredients and a little holiday spirit. If you’re a fan of classic American cake recipes that never go out of style, this Snowball Cake will feel like an old friend from the very first bite.

Why You’ll Love This Snowball Cake

• ❄️ Perfect winter dessert with a festive, snowy look
• 🥥 Balanced coconut flavor—sweet but never overwhelming
• 🎄 Ideal for holidays & gatherings
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly and crowd-approved
• ⏱️ Simple steps, reliable results

It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast—don’t you love recipes like that?

Ingredients Needed

For the Cake

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour – reliable structure and softness
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – helps the cake rise evenly
• ½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – rich flavor
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar – classic sweetness
• 4 large eggs – moisture and structure
• 1 cup whole milk – tender crumb
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – warmth and aroma

For the Frosting & Finish

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 3½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2½ cups sweetened shredded coconut

Chef James tip: Choose fine shredded coconut for a more “snowy” finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round pans.
2. Combine dry ingredients
   Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar
   Beat until pale and fluffy—this step gives the cake its light texture.
4. Add eggs and vanilla
   Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
5. Alternate flour and milk
   Begin and end with dry ingredients, mixing gently.
6. Bake
   Divide batter evenly and bake for 25–30 minutes.
7. Cool completely
   Essential before frosting.
8. Prepare frosting
   Beat cream cheese and butter, then add powdered sugar and vanilla.
9. Assemble and decorate
   Frost the cake generously and press coconut over the entire surface.

This cake pairs beautifully with other southern dessert recipe favorites and works wonderfully as part of a holiday dessert spread.

Tips & Easy Variations

• Extra moist version: Replace ¼ cup milk with coconut milk
• Holiday upgrade: Add white chocolate curls under the coconut
• Quick alternative: Inspired by our no-bake creamy dessert ideas, you can use store-bought sponge layers

If you love rich, buttery textures, this cake complements classics like buttery pound cake perfectly.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze slices individually up to 2 months
• Serving: Bring to room temperature for best flavor

According to food safety guidelines from https://www.fsis.usda.gov/, cream-cheese–frosted cakes should always be kept refrigerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Snowball Cake the same as coconut cake?
Not exactly—Snowball Cake is lighter and fully coated in coconut.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.

Is it very sweet?
No, it’s gently sweet and well balanced.

Can I use boxed cake mix?
Yes, but homemade gives better texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Is it good for parties?
Absolutely—it’s a true crowd-pleasing dessert.

What to Serve With Snowball Cake

Snowball Cake shines alongside other winter classics. Try serving it with:

• Warm drinks from your easy winter dessert recipes menu
• A slice of moist traditional fruitcake for contrast
• Light options from our creamy dessert recipe collection

It’s also a natural fit for any cozy winter dessert table.

Conclusion

Snowball Cake proves that simple desserts can still feel special. With its soft crumb, creamy frosting, and snowy coconut finish, it captures the warmth and joy of winter celebrations. As Chef James, I can confidently say this recipe deserves a permanent place in your holiday baking rotation.

If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more favorites in our cakes and pastries collection and share this Snowball Cake with someone you love. Try it, enjoy it, and let me know how it turned out — happy baking!

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