Easter Bunny Coconut Cake (Printable)

Soft vanilla layers paired with fluffy coconut frosting create a charming treat for spring.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cake

01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 4 large eggs
07 - 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
08 - 1 cup whole milk

→ Coconut Frosting

09 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
10 - 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
11 - 1/4 cup whole milk
12 - 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
13 - 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

→ Decoration

14 - Pink food coloring
15 - Jelly beans or candy-coated chocolate eggs
16 - Licorice strings
17 - Mini marshmallows
18 - Black edible gel or chocolate chips

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
04 - Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until combined.
05 - Alternately add flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
06 - Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth the tops.
07 - Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.
09 - Set aside 1/2 cup of frosting in a separate bowl and tint with pink food coloring for bunny ears and nose.
10 - Once cakes are completely cool, cut one round cake to form the bunny's ears and bow tie. Arrange on a large board: one round for the face, two ear shapes above, and the bow tie below.
11 - Spread a thin layer of white frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Chill for 15 minutes.
12 - Frost the cake generously with remaining white frosting. Press shredded coconut over all frosted surfaces for a fluffy effect.
13 - Use pink-tinted frosting to fill in the bunny's inner ears and nose. Decorate the face with jelly beans or candies for eyes, chocolate chips or gel for nose, licorice strings for whiskers, and mini marshmallows for cheeks and tail.
14 - Present the Easter Bunny Cake and enjoy with guests.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • A showstopping centerpiece that combines creativity with classic vanilla cake flavor
  • Fluffy coconut frosting adds wonderful texture and sweetness to every bite
  • Fun and engaging project perfect for baking with children
  • Customizable decorations allow for personal creative expression
  • Can be prepared partially ahead, making party planning easier
  • Feeds a crowd with 10-12 generous servings
02 -
  • Always let cake layers cool completely before cutting and frosting to prevent crumbling and melting
  • Sift powdered sugar before making frosting to ensure a perfectly smooth, lump-free consistency
  • Keep frosting at room temperature while working—if it gets too firm, briefly microwave for 5-10 seconds
  • Use an offset spatula for smoother frosting application and easier maneuverability around curved edges
  • Check candy decorations for allergen information, especially if serving guests with dietary restrictions
  • Refrigerate assembled cake if not serving immediately, but bring to room temperature 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture
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