2 cups All-Purpose Flour (A gluten-free blend can work as a substitute.)
2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Make sure it’s fresh for best results.)
0.5 teaspoon Salt (Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.)
0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (Substitute with dairy-free butter for a vegan option.)
1.5 cups Granulated Sugar (Feel free to experiment with brown sugar.)
3 large Eggs (Flax eggs can be used for a vegan alternative.)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can lend a unique flavor twist.)
1 cup Whole Milk (Almond or soy milk serves as a great dairy-free alternative.)
1 cup Raspberry Preserves (Fresh raspberries can also work when mashed with sugar.)
3 cups Sweetened Shredded Coconut (Consider using unsweetened for less sweetness.)
0.5 cups Powdered Sugar (Optional for dusting over the cake.)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a dome-shaped cake pan by greasing and dusting it with flour.
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring everything is well mixed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with whole milk. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and dollop raspberry preserves over it. Spread the rest of the batter on top, barely swirling with a knife.
Bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Brush the top with water or simple syrup and gently press shredded coconut over the entire surface.
If desired, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.