Coconut Cream Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Coconut Cream Cheesecake Recipe: A Tropical Delight

Creamy coconut cream cheesecake brings tropical paradise right to your dessert plate.

The silky smooth texture melts like a dream on your tongue.

Bakers adore this luxurious treat for its rich, decadent profile.

Subtle coconut notes dance through each delectable bite, creating a sensational experience.

Tropical ingredients blend seamlessly in this spectacular dessert that feels both elegant and comforting.

Sweet memories start brewing the moment you assemble these simple components.

You won’t believe how easily this showstopping cheesecake comes together with just a few ingredients.

Grab a fork and prepare to be amazed by this dreamy coconut creation.

Why Coconut Cream Cheesecake Is A Creamy Dream

  • Breeze Through Preparation: This coconut cream cheesecake recipe offers a simple, straightforward process that even novice bakers can tackle with confidence. The crust comes together quickly by mixing graham cracker crumbs, coconut, sugar, and butter.
  • Quick and Foolproof Baking: With a short 8-10 minute baking time for the crust and minimal complicated steps, this dessert becomes a stress-free cooking experience. Home bakers can whip up this delightful treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Tropical Twist on Classic Dessert: The addition of shredded coconut transforms the traditional cheesecake into a vacation-inspired delicacy. This clever ingredient swap brings a fresh, exciting flavor profile that elevates the classic dessert from ordinary to extraordinary.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend treats, this coconut cream cheesecake promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Its familiar cheesecake base with a tropical coconut twist will have everyone asking for seconds.

Everything You Need For Coconut Cream Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs, Shredded Coconut: Classic base with a tropical twist, providing crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
  • Melted Butter: Ensures crisp texture and helps ingredients stick.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Rich, smooth base that creates classic cheesecake texture.
  • Coconut Cream: Intensifies tropical coconut flavor and adds creamy consistency.
  • Sugar: Balances tanginess and enhances overall sweetness.
  • Eggs: Provides structure and helps set the cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and classic bakery aroma.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Toasted Coconut Flakes: Adds crunch and enhances coconut flavor.
  • Whipped Cream: Light, airy topping that complements rich cheesecake.

How To Make Coconut Cream Cheesecake Step By Step

  • Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, sugar, and melted butter until fully blended. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even, compact layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

  • Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in the coconut cream, vanilla extract, and coconut extract until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to avoid overbeating. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.

  • Bake the Cheesecake

Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan inside a large roasting dish and pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Add hot water to the roasting dish, filling it halfway up the sides of the pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the center is mostly set with a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool gradually for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

  • Make the Topping

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top. Finish by sprinkling toasted coconut flakes generously for a beautiful, tropical touch.

Helpful Tips For Coconut Cream Cheesecake

  • Master Your Crust Texture: Press the graham cracker and coconut mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a compact, stable base that holds together perfectly when slicing the cheesecake.
  • Boost Coconut Flavor: Toast the shredded coconut before mixing into the crust for a deeper, nuttier taste that enhances the overall coconut profile of the dessert.
  • Prevent Cracking Tricks: Avoid overbaking by removing the cheesecake when the center is still slightly jiggly, as it will continue setting while cooling and reduce the risk of unsightly cracks.
  • Swap and Adapt: For gluten-free guests, replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs without compromising the delicious coconut crust texture.
  • Chill for Perfection: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to develop the richest, smoothest texture and most intense flavors.

How To Store Coconut Cream Cheesecake The Right Way

  • Wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve its delicate texture.
  • Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days, ensuring the cake stays fresh and creamy.
  • Transfer leftover slices to an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and maintain optimal flavor.
  • For longer storage, freeze the whole cheesecake or individual slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this tropical dessert whenever a craving strikes.

What Tastes Good With Coconut Cream Cheesecake

  • Boost Tropical Vibes with Rum Cocktail: Pair this creamy cheesecake with a smooth, aged rum cocktail like a classic Mai Tai or Piña Colada to enhance the coconut flavors and create a delightful Caribbean-inspired dessert experience.
  • Elevate with Fresh Fruit Complement: Serve alongside fresh pineapple chunks or mango slices to add a bright, tangy contrast to the rich, creamy cheesecake and highlight its tropical coconut undertones.
  • Match with Light White Wine: Select a crisp Riesling or Gewürztraminer that offers subtle sweetness and balanced acidity to cut through the cheesecake's richness and complement its coconut profile.
  • Refresh with Tropical Sorbet: Add a scoop of passion fruit or coconut sorbet on the side to provide a refreshing, palate-cleansing element that echoes the cheesecake's tropical essence.

Different Ways To Enjoy Coconut Cream Cheesecake

  • Tropical Paradise: Replace graham crackers with macadamia nut cookies, adding crushed macadamia nuts for extra crunch and island-inspired flavor.
  • Mango Coconut Dream: Fold diced fresh mango into the cheesecake batter and top with mango coulis for a vibrant tropical transformation.
  • Chocolate Coconut Fusion: Swirl melted dark chocolate through the cheesecake filling and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a rich, decadent version.
  • Rum-Soaked Coconut Bliss: Add a splash of coconut rum to the batter and garnish with caramelized rum-soaked coconut chips for an adult-friendly rendition.

FAQs About Coconut Cream Cheesecake

  • What makes this cheesecake different from traditional cheesecakes?

This coconut cream cheesecake combines classic cheesecake with tropical coconut flavors, creating a unique dessert that offers a creamy, rich texture with a delightful coconut twist.

  • Can I use unsweetened coconut for the crust?

Absolutely! Unsweetened shredded coconut works perfectly in the crust and can help control the overall sweetness of the dessert. Just ensure the coconut is finely shredded for the best texture.

  • Is this recipe suitable for coconut lovers?

Yes! This cheesecake is a dream come true for coconut enthusiasts. The crust and filling both incorporate coconut, making it an intensely coconutty dessert that celebrates the tropical flavor.

  • Do I need any special baking skills to make this cheesecake?

Not at all! This recipe is beginner-friendly. If you can mix ingredients and follow simple steps, you’ll be able to create a delicious coconut cream cheesecake with ease.

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Coconut Cream Cheesecake Recipe

Coconut Cream Cheesecake Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy coconut cream cheesecake offers a tropical paradise of indulgence, blending rich flavors with silky texture. Sweet dreams await with each heavenly slice that transports you to a blissful culinary escape.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits
  • 0.5 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 packages (8 ounces / 226 grams each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup canned coconut milk (full fat)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional, for extra flavor)

Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup toasted shredded coconut

Instructions

  1. Crush graham crackers and shredded coconut together, creating a uniform sandy texture that will form the foundation of your dessert’s base.
  2. Drizzle melted butter over the crumb mixture, gently folding and pressing until the ingredients bind together with a consistent, slightly moist consistency.
  3. Transfer the coconut-graham cracker blend into the springform pan, using your fingertips to compact and distribute the mixture evenly across the bottom and slightly up the interior walls.
  4. Slide the prepared crust into the preheated oven, allowing it to transform into a golden, fragrant foundation that will support the creamy cheesecake layer.
  5. Remove the crust after achieving a light golden-brown color and allow it to cool completely, ensuring a crisp and stable base for the upcoming filling.

Notes

  • Toast the coconut crumbs before mixing for a deeper, nuttier flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling that blends effortlessly.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Chill the crust completely before adding the filling to prevent a soggy bottom and maintain a crisp, clean texture.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan

Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.

Education

New York University

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Journalism
  • Focus: Combined foundational journalism training with deep dives into global food traditions, restaurant criticism, and the cultural role of cuisine.

Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.

Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.

Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.

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