Ooey Gooey Coconut Cake – Sweet Comfort in Every Bite
Who agrees that sometimes, a little something sweet is all you need to brighten your day?
This Coconut Cake isn’t just dessert — it’s a slice of pure comfort that melts in your mouth. Moist, creamy, and soaked in layers of coconut goodness, it’s the kind of treat that feels like a tropical hug with every bite.
Simple to make, impossible to resist — and yes, you’ll want to save this one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super moist: Every bite is soaked in creamy coconut sweetness.
- Easy and forgiving: Uses a simple cake mix base — no fancy equipment.
- Crowd favorite: Always the first dessert to disappear at gatherings.
- Perfectly balanced: Rich but not heavy, sweet but not overdone.
- Make ahead: Gets even better after chilling overnight!
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fork or wooden spoon handle (for poking holes)
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box — usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 (15 oz) can cream of coconut
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (plus more for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Prepare and bake the white cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13-inch pan.
- Let it cool 10–15 minutes after baking.
- While still warm, poke holes all over the cake using a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon.
Step 2: Make the Soaking Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Soak the Cake
Slowly pour the coconut mixture evenly over the warm cake, letting it seep into all the holes.
This creates the signature ooey-gooey texture that makes every bite irresistible.
Step 4: Add the Coconut Topping
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded coconut evenly over the soaked cake.
It will absorb some of the moisture and create a light, chewy topping.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Before serving, top with more shredded coconut if desired.
Slice, serve, and prepare for compliments — this one’s unforgettable. 💕
Serving Suggestions
- Brunch treat: Pair with hot coffee or sweet iced tea.
- Party dessert: Add toasted coconut on top for texture.
- Holiday favorite: Dress it up with crushed pineapple or maraschino cherries.
Pro Tips
- Don’t skip chilling: It allows the coconut mixture to fully absorb into the cake.
- Use cream of coconut, not coconut milk — they’re different!
- For a lighter version: Use light condensed milk and reduced-fat cake mix.
- Want more texture? Toast half your shredded coconut for topping.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 5 days, covered tightly.
- Freezer: Up to 2 months (wrap slices individually).
- Best served cold: The texture and flavor intensify overnight.
This Ooey Gooey Coconut Cake is proof that comfort can be simple.
With its melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and tropical flavor, it’s the kind of dessert that brings people together — the one that has everyone asking for “just one more slice.”

Ooey Gooey Coconut Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bake cake per box instructions in 9×13 pan.
- Poke holes in warm cake using fork or spoon handle.
- Whisk cream of coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla.
- Pour mixture over cake; let it soak in.
- Sprinkle with shredded coconut.
- Chill 4 hours or overnight.
- Garnish with extra coconut before serving.
Notes