There’s nothing quite like a beautifully moist and flavorful cake to elevate an afternoon tea, and this Mango and Coconut Cake does just that. With its light, coconut-infused sponge, layers of fresh mango slices, and a smooth cream cheese icing, this cake is a tropical treat that perfectly balances sweetness and creaminess.

This cake is a fantastic choice for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a decadent dessert for mango lovers. The combination of sweet, juicy mangoes and rich coconut flavors brings a taste of summer to every bite. If you love tropical flavors and enjoy baking, this is a must-try recipe!

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Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Moist and Fluffy Texture: The desiccated coconut and coconut milk keep the sponge soft and moist, while the mango purée adds a natural sweetness.
• Delightful Mango Flavor: Using both puréed mango in the cake batter and fresh mango slices in the layers enhances the tropical flavor.
• Smooth and Creamy Icing: A luscious cream cheese frosting, lightly flavored with mango nectar, adds richness and a slight tang that complements the cake’s sweetness.
• Beautiful Ombre Effect: The colored icing creates a stunning visual appeal, making this cake look as impressive as it tastes.

Ingredients for Mango and Coconut Cake

Cake Base:

• 1 ripe mango, stoned, peeled, and coarsely chopped
• 250g butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups (330g) caster sugar
• 2 teaspoons coconut essence
• 4 Coles Brand Australian Free Range Eggs
• 2 cups (160g) desiccated coconut
• 2 ½ cups (375g) self-raising flour
• ⅔ cup (160ml) coconut milk
• 1 ripe mango (extra), stone removed, thinly sliced

Mango Syrup:

• ½ cup (125ml) mango nectar
• ½ cup (110g) caster sugar

Cream Cheese Icing:

• 500g cream cheese, softened
• 125g butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups (240g) icing sugar mixture
• ⅓ cup (80ml) mango nectar
• Yellow and red liquid food coloring

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line the base and sides of two 20cm round cake pans with baking paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Make the Mango Purée – Place the chopped mango in a food processor and blend until completely smooth. Set aside.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar – In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, caster sugar, and coconut essence until light and creamy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, making the cake fluffier.
3. Add the Eggs – Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. This helps maintain a smooth and well-incorporated batter.
4. Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients – Gradually fold in the desiccated coconut, self-raising flour, coconut milk, and mango purée, alternating between the dry and wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can make the cake dense.
5. Divide the Batter – Evenly distribute the batter between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

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Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Mango Syrup

While the cake is cooling, prepare the mango syrup:

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine mango nectar and caster sugar.
2. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes or until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool slightly.

This syrup adds extra mango flavor and moisture to the cake layers.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter – In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the Icing Sugar – Gradually add the icing sugar, mixing well after each addition.
3. Incorporate Mango Nectar – Pour in the mango nectar and continue beating until the icing is smooth and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

1. Slice the Cakes – Using a serrated knife, carefully cut each cake in half horizontally, creating four layers.
2. Brush with Syrup – Generously brush the cut side of each cake layer with the warm mango syrup and let it soak for 10 minutes. This enhances the mango flavor and keeps the cake moist.
3. Layer the Cake – Place the first cake layer (cut-side up) on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of icing over the top, then arrange one-third of the sliced mango evenly. Repeat this process with the remaining cake layers.
4. Final Layer – Spread the remaining cream cheese icing over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it with a spatula.

Step 7: Create the Ombre Icing Effect

1. Color the Icing – Divide the remaining icing into three bowls:
   • Leave one portion plain.
   • Tint the second portion with a few drops of yellow food coloring.
   • Add yellow and a drop of red to the third portion to create an orange shade.
2. Decorate the Cake – Using an offset spatula, spread the lightest color around the top third of the cake. Apply the orange shade to the middle section and the deeper color to the bottom third. Blend the colors slightly for a seamless gradient effect.

Mango and Coconut Cake Serving and Storage

• Slice and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, the cake can be frozen (without the icing) for up to 1 month. Thaw completely before decorating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Energy: 2734 kJ (653 kcal)
• Protein: 7.2g
• Total Fat: 40.0g
• Saturated Fat: 26.4g
• Carbohydrates: 68.5g
• Sugars: 49.0g
• Sodium: 402.5mg

Final Thoughts

This Mango and Coconut Cake is a tropical dream come true! It’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a luscious cream cheese icing that perfectly complements the sweetness of mango. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a slice of paradise, this cake is sure to impress.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen today! 🍰🥭

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