There’s something timeless about a beautifully layered cake, and this Snowball Cake with Raspberry and Coconut captures that nostalgic charm in every slice. Light, buttery cake layers are filled with vibrant raspberry jam and wrapped in a snowy blanket of sweet coconut, creating a dessert that’s as elegant as it is comforting.

As a chef, I love how this cake balances textures. The crumb is soft yet structured, the jam adds a bright fruity contrast, and the coconut coating gives a delicate chew that makes each bite more interesting than the last. It’s the kind of homemade dessert that looks impressive on a serving table but is surprisingly approachable to prepare.

If you enjoy easy dessert recipes, simple homemade baking, and crowd-pleasing sweets that feel special without being complicated, this Snowball Cake deserves a place in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Snowball Cake with Raspberry and Coconut isn’t just beautiful — it’s reliable and rewarding.

It’s a beginner-friendly baking recipe with straightforward steps
Uses simple, affordable baking ingredients
The flavor balance of sweet and tart feels refined, not overly sugary
Perfect as a make-ahead dessert for gatherings
Visually stunning and ideal for celebrations
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that slices cleanly and serves easily

This cake feels classic yet versatile, making it one of the best dessert ideas for family dinners or special occasions.

About the Ingredients

Every ingredient in this Snowball Cake with Raspberry and Coconut plays an essential role.

All-purpose flour provides structure while keeping the crumb tender. For gluten-free needs, a quality 1:1 baking blend can work as a substitute.

Baking powder and baking soda ensure the cake rises evenly and maintains a soft texture.

Unsalted butter adds richness and depth. Using room-temperature butter helps create a smooth, airy batter.

Granulated sugar sweetens while helping cream the butter properly, which contributes to a light texture.

Eggs provide structure and stability. Adding them one at a time ensures proper emulsification.

Vanilla extract enhances overall flavor and complements both raspberry and coconut beautifully.

Buttermilk adds moisture and slight tang, resulting in a softer crumb. If unavailable, you can make a quick substitute with milk and lemon juice.

Raspberry jam forms the fruity center. Choose a high-quality jam for bold flavor and balanced sweetness.

Sweetened shredded coconut gives the cake its signature snowball appearance and adds a subtle tropical note.

Each of these simple ingredients works together to create a dessert that feels layered and sophisticated without being complicated.

Tips & Tricks

For the best Snowball Cake results, pay attention to mixing technique. Overmixing the batter can develop excess gluten and lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are incorporated.

Always ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Proper creaming of butter and sugar introduces air, giving the cake its light texture.

When spreading the raspberry jam, use an offset spatula to create an even layer. This ensures balanced flavor in every slice.

Allow cake layers to cool completely before assembling. Applying jam or frosting to warm cake can cause sliding or melting.

Press coconut gently but firmly onto the frosting so it adheres evenly and gives that full snowball effect.

Pro Tips

Chill the assembled cake for at least one hour before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Lightly toast half of the coconut for a subtle nutty flavor variation.
Brush cake layers lightly with simple syrup for extra moisture if preparing in advance.
Use parchment rounds in your pans for effortless cake release.
For a refined finish, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

These professional techniques elevate a simple baking recipe into a bakery-style presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate mixing bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans briefly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Spread raspberry jam evenly over one cake layer. Place the second layer on top.
Frost the top and sides evenly.
Press shredded coconut onto the entire exterior of the cake.
Refrigerate for one hour before slicing and serving.

This easy step-by-step recipe ensures consistent and reliable results.

Variations

There are several ways to customize Snowball Cake with Raspberry and Coconut.

Use strawberry or blackberry jam instead of raspberry for a different fruit profile.

Replace half of the coconut with finely chopped toasted almonds for added texture.

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat buttermilk and less sugar in the frosting.

Add a thin layer of whipped cream between the cake and jam for extra creaminess.

Create a gluten-free dessert option by using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.

These recipe variations allow you to tailor the cake while maintaining its signature charm.

How to Store Snowball Cake with Raspberry and Coconut

To maintain freshness and texture, proper storage is essential for this cake.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This preserves moisture and prevents the coconut from drying out.

For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Properly stored, it can remain fresh for up to one month.

Allow the cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid thawing at room temperature for extended periods, as this can affect frosting stability.

Following these Snowball Cake storage tips ensures the cake remains moist and flavorful.

These homemade cake preservation methods help maintain texture and structure.

This recipe also works beautifully as a make ahead cake dessert for gatherings.

Proper refrigeration protects your raspberry coconut cake freshness and keeps every slice soft and balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?
Yes, but cook them slightly with sugar to achieve a thicker consistency suitable for layering.

Can I skip the coconut coating?
Absolutely. You may frost the cake traditionally or use crushed nuts instead.

Can I freeze Snowball Cake?
Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month for best quality.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?
Chill the cake thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Is this recipe beginner-friendly?
Yes, this is a simple baking recipe designed for home bakers of all experience levels.

This Snowball Cake with Raspberry and Coconut combines elegance, texture, and balanced flavor into one memorable homemade dessert. With proper technique and simple ingredients, it becomes a reliable centerpiece for any celebration.

Emily