Table of Contents
Introduction
Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Raspberry Coconut Dessert invites you to a simple cake that balances crisp coconut and a tender, silky crumb.
This dessert pairs a bright ribbon of raspberry with a cloud of toasted coconut and a slow, even bake that yields a domed, snowball silhouette.
Think small moments: afternoon tea, an elegant weekend brunch, or a tidy finale to a dinner with friends.
A single, clean slice reveals visual contrast and a texture that asks to be savored slowly.

Why This Recipe Works
Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Raspberry Coconut Dessert succeeds because contrasting elements are precise and restrained.
A tender butter cake provides a neutral, rich base while a smear of warm raspberry jam sharpens the center without making it wet.
Sweetened shredded coconut pressed onto a brushed surface becomes a fragile, chewy shell that brightens each bite.
Temperature contrast between a slightly warm jam layer and a cool crumb enhances the perception of freshness and depth.
Flavor and Texture
This cake lands somewhere between a tea loaf and a filled bundt: the crumb is moist, with a fine, even structure that yields to the fork.
Raspberry adds a bright, slightly tart thread through the center, cutting sweetness and drawing out buttery notes.
Coconut plays both visual and textural roles, offering a crisp first impression that gives way to tender chew and a toasted perfume on the palate.
A dusting of powdered sugar makes the surface feel ephemeral, like first snowfall, and photographs beautifully against the coconut’s matte texture.
Serve slightly warm to make the jam glisten, or at room temperature to let the crumb firm and flavors settle.
The finish is never cloying; contrast keeps each bite balanced and intriguing.
Convenience and Time
This recipe fits into a busy afternoon: batter comes together without fuss and requires only a single pan.
You’ll spend most time waiting for the oven to do its work, which is ideal for preparing tea or setting the table.
Active hands-on time is brief, and the technique alternating dry ingredients and milk keeps mixing gentle to preserve crumb.
If you plan ahead, the cake holds its shape well and invites modest finishing touches just before serving.
Diet Friendly Options
Small substitutions preserve the identity of the cake while accommodating preferences.
Swap whole milk for a high-fat plant milk to keep richness, and use dairy-free stick margarine with similar creaming behavior for texture.
For lower sugar, choose a reduced-sugar jam and slightly trim the granulated sugar, but keep the coconut coating for essential contrast.
Gluten-free flour blends can work if chosen for one-to-one replacement and handled with minimal mixing to avoid gummy crumb.
These changes nudge the profile but keep the bright raspberry center and coconut exterior intact.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup raspberry preserves (slightly warmed)
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-cup oven-safe dome pan or bowl; dust with flour.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop raspberry preserves on top, then cover with remaining batter. Swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
- Bake 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.
- Brush the cake with water or syrup, if needed, and press coconut all over to coat. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Success
Let butter come fully to room temperature for easier creaming and an aerated batter that lifts evenly.
Warm the raspberry preserves slightly so it spreads without pulling the surrounding batter; a few seconds in a microwave or a warm water bath is enough.
When adding dry ingredients and milk, begin and end with the dry mixture to limit overworking and preserve tenderness.
Use a knife or skewer to swirl the jam without creating a tunnel to the bottom; short, shallow motions are best.
Press coconut onto a barely damp surface so it adheres cleanly without sliding off.
Ingredient Swaps
If you reduce sugar, consider a thicker jam or a raspberry compote to retain the bright center without adding syrupiness.
For a nuttier finish, swap half the shredded coconut for finely chopped toasted almonds, keeping the visual coconut coverage intact.
Use buttermilk or a yogurt thinned with milk for a slightly tangier crumb; reduce baking powder slightly to balance rise.
Gluten-free blends with xanthan gum will behave differently; fold with the lightest touch and expect a denser crumb.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Serve slices with a lightly whipped cream or a spoon of vanilla yogurt to add a cool, creamy counterpoint.
A bright tea, jasmine or Darjeeling, complements the coconut’s floral notes while a medium-roast coffee supports the buttery base.
For an elegant plate, place a single fresh raspberry on each slice and a tiny mint leaf to contrast texture and color.
Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Raspberry Coconut Dessert pairs well with simple fruit salads that echo the cake’s acidity.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
The cake keeps well at room temperature in an airtight container for a day, then refrigerated for up to three days.
If storing cold, bring slices to room temperature before serving so the texture softens and the jam becomes fragrant again.
You can assemble the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, but allow it to return to room temperature so baking time remains consistent.
Coat with coconut just before serving to preserve the crispest possible texture on the outside.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This cake provides energy-dense comfort with protein from eggs and butter and carbohydrates from flour and preserves.
Coconut contributes medium-chain fatty acids and a satisfying chew that may improve satiety per bite.
Raspberries offer a touch of vitamin C and fiber when used as preserves or fresh, brightening the sugar profile.
Portion control and pairing with protein-rich sides like yogurt can make this dessert part of a balanced menu.
For specific dietary needs, please consult a qualified health professional.
Mistakes to Avoid
Overwhipping the butter and sugar can lead to an overly aerated batter that collapses during baking.
Placing jam in a single dense mass can create a soggy pocket; spread small dollops and swirl gently for a ribboned effect.
Skipping the flour dust in the greased pan increases the chance the cake will stick and tear on unmolding.
Pressing coconut onto a hot, sugary surface can melt the jam and cause clumping; apply when the cake is cool enough to handle but slightly tacky.
Ignoring bake time range risks underbaking the center; check doneness with a clean toothpick.
Personal Closing Thought and Call to Action
This is the kind of cake that feels curated yet effortless, a dessert that rewards small care with clear sensory payoff.
If you savor contrasts a crisp outer coat, a mellow interior, a bright jam ribbon—this recipe will become a quiet favorite.
Try it for a small gathering, photograph the slice, and notice how the coconut catches light and attention.
If you enjoyed this approach to texture and flavor, consider exploring related recipes on the site.
Conclusion
Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Raspberry Coconut Dessert reads like a simple formula for textured joy, and it’s easy to adapt while keeping its signature contrasts.
For another riff on a jam-filled coconut cake that inspired similar ideas, see Snowball Cake Recipe – 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Raspberry Coconut Dessert for extra technique and presentation notes.
FAQ
FAQ
What is the preparation time for this recipe?
The preparation time usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on experience and equipment.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Yes, simple substitutions are possible depending on dietary needs or availability.
Is this recipe suitable for specific diets?
This recipe can be adapted with small changes depending on preferences.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two to three days.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Many steps can be prepared ahead of time to simplify busy cooking days.
Snowball Cake
A delightful cake combining rich butter, tangy raspberry, and toasted coconut for an elegant dessert.
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup raspberry preserves (slightly warmed)
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-cup oven-safe dome pan or bowl; dust with flour.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop raspberry preserves on top, then cover with remaining batter. Swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
- Bake 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.
- Brush the cake with water or syrup, if needed, and press coconut all over to coat. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Let butter come fully to room temperature for easier creaming and an aerated batter. Use warm raspberry preserves to ensure easy spreading.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg










