As I watched the birds flit about in the blossoming trees of spring, I felt an undeniable urge to celebrate the season with something sweet. Enter the Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake, a delightful unfrosted creation that perfectly captures the spirit of warmer days. This cake combines the tartness of raspberry preserves with the tropical crunch of shredded coconut, resulting in a visually stunning centerpiece that’s easier to whip up than it looks. Not only does this delightful dessert dazzle at any gathering, but it also offers a lighter alternative that’s naturally sweetened and adaptable for gluten-free diets. Are you ready to bring a touch of sunshine into your kitchen with this enchanting snowball cake?

Why Is This Snowball Cake a Must-Try?

Light and Airy: With its fluffy texture and delicate crumb, this cake is a breath of fresh air for spring gatherings.

Vibrant Flavors: The marriage of sweet raspberry preserves and crunchy coconut creates a burst of tropical delight that pleases every palate.

Simplicity: Easy to make with just a few ingredients, it’s perfect for bakers of any skill level.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a light dessert or pair it with tea for an afternoon snack. You can also explore variations, like substituting raspberry preserves with pineapple for a twist!

Eye-Catching Presentation: The marbled design and coconut coating make it a stunning centerpiece that impresses at any event.

So why not elevate your dessert game with this delightful Snowball Cake? For more baking inspiration, check out these Sugar Free Cheesecake bars or Apple Pancake Cozy recipes.

Snowball Cake Ingredients

• For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
Salt – Use kosher salt for best results in enhancing flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – You can reduce by up to 1/2 cup for a less sweet cake.
Large Eggs – Best at room temperature for easier incorporation.
Vanilla Extract – Use pure extract for a richer taste.
Whole Milk – Substitute with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

• For the Raspberry Swirl

Raspberry Preserves – Slightly warmed for easier swirling into the batter.

• For the Coating

Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Unsweetened can be used for a less sugary coating.
Powdered Sugar (optional) – Use for dusting to enhance visual appeal.

This Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake is not just delicious; it’s also easy to whip up and an eye-catching dessert perfect for any spring gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a 10-cup dome pan and generously grease and flour it to prevent the cake from sticking. You’ll want to ensure every nook is coated, as this will help the cake release beautifully after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination will provide structure and enhance the flavor of your Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake. Make sure the mixture is well-combined to avoid any clumps, setting it aside for the next step.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar with a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This is where you infuse your cake with moisture and sweetness. Next, add in 3 large room-temperature eggs one at a time, incorporating them fully before adding 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with ½ cup of whole milk. Begin with a third of the dry mixture, then a splash of milk, mixing until just combined. Repeat until all ingredients are incorporated, being careful not to over-mix to maintain the fluffy texture of your Snowball Cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Cake for Baking
Pour half of the batter into the prepared dome pan. Then, spoon dollops of raspberry preserves over the batter, letting them swirl beautifully through the mix. Finally, add the remaining batter on top and gently swirl again with a knife, creating a marbled effect that will shine once baked.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the dome pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready. The top will be lightly golden, and a pleasant aroma will fill your kitchen, indicating the delightful Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake is close to perfection.

Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the dome pan from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack. This cooling time will help the cake firm up. After 10 minutes, carefully turn it out onto the wire rack to cool completely, which is crucial before adding the final touches.

Step 8: Coat with Coconut
When the cake has cooled completely, brush its surface lightly with water or syrup. This helps the shredded coconut adhere. Then, generously coat the cake with sweetened shredded coconut, ensuring an even layer. For an extra touch, you may dust the coconut-covered cake with powdered sugar, adding an appealing finish that completes your stunning Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake.

What to Serve with Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake

Savor the delightful experience of pairing this enchanting cake with complementary dishes that elevate your spring celebrations.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries and blueberries adds a vibrant, juicy contrast that enhances the tartness of the raspberry preserves.
Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy, airy balance that enhances the fluffy texture of the cake.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy coconut treats echo the flavors in the cake, creating a delightful coconut experience in every bite.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens the table and serves as a perfect accompaniment to contrast the cake’s sweetness.
Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing iced tea complements the tropical notes of the cake, making for a delightful sweet retreat.
Sparkling Water: Lightly flavored sparkling water with a slice of lemon offers a refreshing bubble that cleanses the palate between bites.
Mini Cheesecakes: A few petite cheesecake bites provide a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the snowball cake.
Almond Cookies: The nutty flavor of almond cookies provides a delightful crunch that adds an unexpected texture alongside the cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the cake’s delicate crumb, creating a sweet fusion of flavors.

These pairings not only enhance the Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake but also set the stage for a memorable spring gathering filled with warmth and joy.

Expert Tips for Making Snowball Cake

Avoid Over-Mixing: When incorporating the raspberry preserves, mix gently to maintain the beautiful swirl pattern without completely blending it in.

Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is entirely cool before adding the coconut coating to prevent clumping and ensure an even finish.

Use Room Temperature Eggs: Allow your eggs to come to room temperature before mixing to achieve a lighter, fluffier snowball cake.

Check Your Leavening: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise; expired baking powder can lead to a dense cake.

Cut with Care: Use a sharp knife to slice the cake for clean edges and a more professional presentation that shows off the lovely raspberry swirls.

Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to replace raspberry preserves with other fruit preserves, like lime or pineapple, for a refreshing twist on this snowball cake!

Make Ahead Options

This Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, the raspberry preserves can be pre-measured and set aside, allowing you to swirl them in with ease when you’re ready to bake. For a finished cake that stays delightful, allow it to cool completely, then coat it with shredded coconut just before serving to maintain its crisp texture. With these tips, you can enjoy a stunning dessert with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Snowball Cake

Room Temperature: Store the Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake in a cake dome at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, slices can be individually wrapped in parchment and stored in an airtight container or freezer bag. They last in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply let slices thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours—no need to reheat; it’s delightful served chilled!

Snowball Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity bloom as you customize this delightful snowball cake to suit your tastes!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil and use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free delight.
Sweetness Adjustment: Reduce the granulated sugar by up to 1/2 cup for a less sweet treat, allowing the raspberry preserves to shine.
Flavor Twist: Substitute raspberry preserves with lime or pineapple preserves for a refreshing tropical twist that will invigorate your taste buds.
Mini Bites: For a fun twist, use cupcake molds to make mini snowball cakes. Adjust the baking time to 18–22 minutes for perfectly bite-sized treats.
Fruity Add-Ins: Fold in fresh berries, such as blueberries or sliced strawberries, into the batter before baking for extra bursts of flavor.
Coconut Variations: If you prefer less sweetness, try using unsweetened shredded coconut for the coating—delivering a more subdued coconut flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, like almonds or cashews, over the frosting for an extra layer of texture and a delightful crunch.

This cake’s versatility means everyone can find their favorite version! For more delightful ingredients, check out these lovely Lemon Ricotta Pancakes or our appealing Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate for even more inspiration.

Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe raspberries for the raspberry preserves?
Absolutely! Look for raspberries that are plump and firm with a vibrant color. Avoid any with dark spots all over, which can indicate overripeness. Fresh raspberries should smell fragrant and have a slight give when squeezed. If making your own preserves, aim to use the ripest berries for the best flavor.

What are the best storage methods for the Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake?
For sure! Store your cake at room temperature in a cake dome for up to 3 days to retain its freshness and texture. If you plan to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure to keep it away from any strong-smelling foods in the fridge to maintain its light flavor.

Can I freeze leftover slices of this cake?
Very! Slices of the Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. To do this, individually wrap each slice in parchment paper and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. There’s no need to reheat it; it’s delightful cold!

What should I do if my cake didn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your cake didn’t rise, check your baking powder; make sure it’s fresh and not expired, as that can inhibit the rise. Also, ensure that you whipped the butter and sugar enough at the beginning, as that creates air pockets needed for a fluffy texture. Lastly, remember not to over-mix the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as that can lead to a denser cake!

Is this cake suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! The Raspberry Coconut Snowball Cake can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the other ingredients, like baking powder and vanilla extract, are also gluten-free. It’s a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy!

Can my pet eat this cake safely?
Not at all! While the ingredients are generally safe for humans, dogs and other pets should not consume cake or baked goods, especially those containing sugar and butter. Instead, consider giving them a special treat designed for pets to keep them happy and healthy.