What is a Coconut Neiman Cake and why is it called that?

A Coconut Neiman Cake is a variation of the classic Neiman Marcus Cake, known for its rich, buttery layers and sweet coconut flavor. It became popular as a signature dessert inspired by the legendary Neiman Marcus store recipe, with coconut added for extra tropical flavor. This Coconut Neiman Cake recipe is quick, easy, and family-friendly, making it perfect for celebrations or casual desserts.

Can I make this Coconut Neiman Cake in other flavors?

Yes, this Coconut Neiman Cake recipe is versatile. You can experiment with chocolate, lemon, or classic butter cake variations while keeping the moist, buttery texture intact. The shredded coconut adds a subtle tropical twist that complements any flavor.

How do I store leftover Coconut Neiman Cake?

Store your Coconut Neiman Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. Frosting with coconut helps keep the cake moist and enhances flavor.

Where can I find the best Coconut Neiman Cake recipes online?

For tried-and-true results, search for “Coconut Neiman Cake recipe,” “best Neiman Marcus cake recipe,” or “Neiman Marcus butter cake recipe” on reputable recipe sites and blogs like Eminent Recipes. These sources provide quick, easy, and family-friendly instructions with tips for perfect results.

Coconut Neiman Cake Recipe – Quick, Moist & Family-Friendly 2026

Name: Coconut Neiman Cake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut; 16 oz cream cheese or buttercream frosting, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2–3 tablespoons milk; ½ cup shredded coconut for frosting; Additional shredded coconut for topping; Optional: toasted coconut for decoration

Description

A moist and buttery cake topped with creamy coconut frosting and shredded coconut. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or as a sweet treat anytime, this cake is a delicious twist on the classic Neiman Marcus Cake.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch round cake):

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

For the Frosting:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese or buttercream frosting, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons milk to adjust consistency
½ cup shredded coconut for frosting

For Decoration:

Additional shredded coconut for topping
Optional: toasted coconut for a nutty flavor and golden color

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Bake Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round pan.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.

Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with milk until smooth. Fold in shredded coconut.

Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat frosting with powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Fold in ½ cup shredded coconut.

Step 3: Frost Cake
Level the cooled cake. Apply a thin crumb coat and chill 20 minutes.

Frost the cake fully with coconut frosting and smooth. Sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top.

Step 4: Optional Decoration
Toast some coconut in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes until golden, then sprinkle on top for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

Make Ahead: Bake the cake a day ahead; frost and decorate the day of serving.
Extra Moisture: For a richer flavor, brush cake layers lightly with coconut milk before frosting.
Mini Version: Bake as cupcakes and frost individually with coconut topping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Celebration Cake
Method: Baked / Frosted / Decorated
Cuisine: American