• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Pastry Wishes
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • How-tos and Tips
  • Web Stories
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Recipes
  • How-tos and Tips
  • Web Stories
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×
    • A stack of chocolate chip marshmallow cookies on parchment paper next to mini marshmallows and cookies.
      Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies
    • A closeup of a strawberry mojito mocktail on a wooden surface next to strawberries, mint leaves, and lime slices.
      Strawberry Mojito Mocktail
    • A close up of chocolate marshmallow ice cream in a glass bowl topped with two toasted marshmallows next to marshmallows and ice cream cones.
      Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream
    • A closeup of baked blueberry apple crumble in a white baking dish with a spoon.
      Blueberry Apple Crumble
    • Two glasses of virgin sunrise mocktails with metal straws on a wooden surface, garnished with mint leaves next to a blue towel and orange slices.
      Virgin Sunrise
    • Four scoops of black forest ice cream in a glass bowl topped with a cherry.
      Black Forest Ice Cream
    • A stack of three strawberry cheesecake cookies on parchment paper next to strawberries and a white napkin.
      Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
    • A closeup of a strawberry daiquiri mocktail next to strawberries and limes.
      Strawberry Daiquiri Mocktail
    • A closeup of an Oreo muffin on an unwrapped paper liner on top of four Oreo muffins and Oreo cookies.
      Oreo Muffins
    • A three layer chocolate salted caramel cake on a white plate next to a vase with white flowers and a jar of caramel.
      Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake
    • A stack of three lemon blueberry cookies on a white surface dripping with lemon glaze next to a cookie, blueberries and lemon slices.
      Lemon Blueberry Cookies
    • Caramel filled cupcakes on a white plate and a gray surface next to a jar of caramel sauce.
      Caramel Filled Cupcakes
    Home » Recipes » All Recipes

    Coconut and Jam Cake

    Published: Oct 9, 2022 by Voula with 2 Comments

    Sharing is caring!

    137 shares
    • Share15
    • Tweet
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    This coconut and jam cake is a classic British dessert! It’s a soft, buttery sponge cake topped with jam and a layer of shredded coconut!

    three pieces of coconut and jam cake stacked on top of each other

    I'm all for easy cakes! Like my Lemon Pomegranate Cake, my Ouzo-spiked Chocolate Orange Cake, and my Lemon Olive Oil Cake.

    This delicious cake is really easy, too! My English friends say this cake was served during lunch at school when they were kids.

    It's a traditional English cake that has many different names. Actually, I don't think I've ever come across a cake with so many different names!

    In the UK it's called coconut tray bake, coconut and jam tray bake, coconut cake tray bake (or coconut traybake), coconut and jam sponge, and school cake.

    No matter what you call it, this coconut jam cake is AMAZING!

    But, what I like the most, though, is that it’s a one-bowl, no-fuss cake! It’s really simple to make, even for a beginner.

    Jump to:
    • Why you’ll love this recipe
    • What does this coconut and jam cake taste like?
    • WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE
    • HOW TO MAKE COCONUT AND JAM CAKE
    • Recipe Notes
    • ADD-INS & VARIATIONS
    • TIPS FOR SUCCESS
    • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
    • HOW TO SERVE THIS COCONUT CAKE
    • MORE CAKE RECIPES TO TRY!
    • Recipe
    slices of coconut and jam cake with a bowl of jam in the background

    Why you’ll love this recipe

    • It’s relatively quick. This cake is ready in less than an hour.
    • It has few ingredients, most of which you probably already have.
    • It’s easy to make. This is definitely one of the easiest cakes to make!
    • No decorating skills necessary. This is one of the greatest things I love about this cake! You don’t need to decorate it as it’s already decorated with shredded coconut.
    • It’s not overly sweet. This cake is just sweet enough and very light.

    What does this coconut and jam cake taste like?

    This cake is incredibly moist and fluffy with a wonderful vanilla flavor. The jam and the shredded coconut on top pair so well with all the other flavors.

    a close up of a slice of coconut and jam cake

    WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

    Ingredients for coconut and jam cake

    ingredients for coconut and jam cake
    Just a few ingredients!
    • Butter: I use unsalted butter. Just make sure it’s at room temperature.
    • Sugar: I use regular granulated sugar.
    • Eggs: You’ll need 4 eggs for this recipe. I used medium-sized eggs.
    • Self-rising flour & baking powder: This recipe uses self-rising flour and a bit of baking powder. I haven’t tried it with all-purpose flour, but it should work if you add 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder.
    • Vanilla: I use vanilla extract.
    • Milk: You only need a tablespoon of milk.
    • Salt: I use table salt, but you could use fine kosher salt or flaky sea salt.
    • Unsweetened dried coconut: I use finely shredded dried or desiccated coconut that’s unsweetened. I think any sweetened coconut would make the cake too sweet.
    • Jam: I use my homemade strawberry jam for this recipe, although you can use your favorite jam or marmalade.

    Equipment you’ll need

    • a hand mixer
    • an 8x8 inch (20 x 20 cm) or 9x9 inch (23 x 23cm) pan - I used a 9x9 inch pan, if you have an 8x8 inch pan, the cake will be a bit thicker.
    • parchment paper

    HOW TO MAKE COCONUT AND JAM CAKE

    Step-by-step instructions

    First, prepare the pan. Grease it and line it with parchment paper. I make sure there is extra parchment paper hanging over the sides that I use to lift the cake out of the pan when it cools.

    a collage of four photos of assembling coconut and jam cake step 1-4
    a collage of four photos of assembling coconut and jam cake step 5-8

    STEP 1
    Beat the butter and the sugar together until the mixture is very creamy. This takes at least 5 minutes.

    TOP TIP
    If you don’t beat the butter and the sugar well, the cake could turn out very dense.

    STEP 2
    Add the vanilla and the eggs, one at a time, beating very well after each addition.

    STEP 3
    Add the flour and baking powder. I like to sift it over the egg mixture so that there aren’t any lumps in the batter. That way everything combines thoroughly.

    STEP 4
    Then fold everything together. I like using a rubber/silicone spatula for this. Then add the milk and salt and fold that in, too. Don’t overmix the batter, just fold everything together until combined.

    STEP 5
    Scoop the batter into the prepared pan and even out the surface.

    STEP 6
    Bake the cake. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and leave it in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then lift the cake out of the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

    STEP 7
    Spread the strawberry jam all over the top. I find it easier to use the back of a spoon for this.

    STEP 8
    Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the jam.

    Recipe Notes

    Storage Tips
    You can store this cake in the refrigerator for up to about a week, just make sure it’s well-covered. I like putting it in an airtight container.

    Freezing Instructions
    I haven’t tried freezing this cake with the toppings, but you can definitely freeze it without them. I usually cut the cake into individual pieces and wrap each one in plastic wrap. Then I place each piece in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container. You can freeze this cake unfrosted for up to about 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

    ADD-INS & VARIATIONS

    Here are a few ideas to make your coconut and jam cake a bit differently:

    • For more coconut flavor and texture, add some unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter before baking! I would use coconut that’s finely shredded, as opposed to the thicker kind.
    • Of course, you can use your favorite jam or marmalade! I think this cake would be amazing with raspberry jam, mandarin marmalade or peach jam.
    • Easily make a coconut loaf cake by using a loaf pan.

    TIPS FOR SUCCESS

    • You really need to beat the butter and the sugar together well so that the cake becomes soft and fluffy and not dense.
    • When the cake is done baking and you take it out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it from the pan.

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    How long will this coconut and jam cake last?

    If you keep it well covered, like in an airtight container, it can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. I've also stored this cake at room temperature, but only for a day.

    Can I freeze this cake?

    Yes, but I'd freeze it without the jam and coconut topping. Just wrap individual slices with plastic wrap and then place them in freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to about 2 months.

    slices of coconut and jam cake with a bowl of jam in the background

    HOW TO SERVE THIS COCONUT CAKE

    This cake is delicious when it’s slightly warm. I’ve also been told that it’s phenomenal with custard! (I definitely need to try that !!!)
    It’s also great with tea, but I also love it with coffee for breakfast! Delish!

    Happy baking!

    ~Voula

    MORE CAKE RECIPES TO TRY!

    • Earl grey lavender cake on a white surface surrounded by lavender flowers.
      Earl Grey Lavender Cake
    • Chocolate walnut cake with fudge frosting and walnuts.
      Chocolate Walnut Cake
    • carrot cake slice
      The Best Classic Carrot Cake Recipe (Easy + Tips)
    • Chocolate drip cake on a white plate with gray napkin and flowers in a vase in background.
      Chocolate Drip Cake

    Let me know how this coconut and jam cake turns out for you in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you!

    Recipe

    Three pieces of coconut and jam cake stacked on top of each other.
    Print

    Coconut and Jam Cake

    This coconut and jam cake is a classic British dessert! It’s a soft, buttery sponge cake topped with jam and a layer of shredded coconut!
    Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine English, European
    Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 30 minutes minutes
    Cooling Time 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time 55 minutes minutes
    Servings 12 , approximately

    Equipment

    • a mixer (hand)
    • an 8x8 inch (20 x 20 cm) or 9x9 inch (23 x 23cm) pan
    • parchment paper

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
    • 8 oz (225g / 1 cup + 2½ tablespoons) sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla
    • 4 medium eggs
    • 8 oz (225g / 2 cups) self-rising flour
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 tablespoon milk
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 6-10 tablespoons (about 150g / 5oz) strawberry jam
    • ½ cup (75g / 2.6 oz) unsweetened, dried/desiccated coconut

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 356°F / 180°C.
    • Grease the pan and line it with parchment paper with extra hanging over the sides, (the paper will be used to lift the cake out of the pan when it cools). Set it aside.
    • Beat the butter and the sugar together until the mixture is very creamy. This takes at least 5 minutes.
    • Add the vanilla and the eggs, one at a time, beating very well after each addition.
    • Sift the flour and baking powder over the egg mixture. Then fold it into the batter using a rubber/silicone spatula.
    • Add the milk and salt and fold that in, too. Don’t overmix.
    • Scoop the batter into the prepared pan and even out the surface.
    • Bake the cake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and leave it in the pan for about 10 minutes.
    • Lift the cake out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
    • Spread the strawberry jam all over the top using the back of a spoon.
    • Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the jam.
    • Enjoy!

    Notes

    • If you don’t beat the butter and the sugar well, the cake could turn out very dense.
    Picture Tutorial & Tips:
    I have a detailed picture tutorial in my post to help you out with each step of the recipe as well as lots of tips to ensure success.
    Baking Measurements:
    I have used weight measurements for all the recipes on this website. Even though I have also included American volume measurements for convenience, I highly recommend using a digital kitchen scale to weigh all ingredients for the most accurate measurements. Digital kitchen scales are more precise than cups, which is so important in baking, and they give the most accurate, consistent results. Happy baking!
    ©Pastry Wishes
    This recipe is slightly adapted from  Jamie Oliver's Jammy Coconut Sponge: https://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/fruit-recipes/jammy-coconut-sponge/
    « No Bake Salted Caramel Cheesecake
    3 Ingredient Biscoff Cake »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Dina

      October 09, 2022 at 5:48 pm

      5 stars
      Looks amazing!

      Reply
      • Voula

        October 09, 2022 at 5:48 pm

        Thank you, Dina! This cake is so good!

        Reply

    Thanks for stopping by! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi! I'm Voula!

    about me photo

    I’m a self-taught baker, recipe developer and aspiring food photographer with a passion for baking. I believe making desserts from scratch doesn’t have to be intimidating or complicated. Learn more about me ...

    Popular

    • A vanilla swiss roll cake with powdered sugar and fresh strawberries on a white plate.
      Easy Vanilla Swiss Roll Recipe
    • Virgin mojito with sprite, mint leaves, ice and lime in a glass.
      Virgin Mojito Recipe With Sprite
    • A slice of greek ekmek kataifi on a white plate.
      Greek Ekmek Kataifi
    • A slice of lazy cake on a white plate on a white surface.
      Easy Lazy Cake Recipe
    • Peanut butter fudge squares in a white bowl.
      No Bake Peanut Butter Fudge
    • homemade peanut butter
      How to Make Peanut Butter (Step-by-step Tutorial)

    Seasonal

    • Apple pie tartlets on burlap next to two apples and two cinnamon sticks on a wooden surface.
      Apple Pie Tartlets
    • A slice of pumpkin cheesecake bar with whipped cream and caramel sauce on top and a pumpkin in the back.
      No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
    • two streusel top apple mufins, one on top of the other, with two apples and cinnamon sticks
      Streusel Top Apple Muffins (No Mixer)
    • An overhead shot of an apple rose tart with dulce de leche on a white surface next to an apple and cinnamon sticks.
      Easy Apple Rose Tart with Dulce de Leche
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    INFO

    • About
    • Privacy Policy

    FOLLOW

    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Facebook
    • Twitter

    RECIPES

    • All Recipes

    CONTACT

    • Contact Us

    Copyright © 2023 Pastry Wishes

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT