Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper for easier cake removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and coconut extract (if using).
With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and the coconut milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix. If using shredded coconut, gently fold it into the batter at this point.
Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13 inch pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
Stir in the vanilla extract, coconut extract, and coconut milk. Beat on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread a thick layer of the coconut frosting evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula or knife.
Sprinkle the shredded coconut generously over the frosting, covering the entire surface of the cake.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Slice the cake into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
Serve immediately or refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set slightly before serving.
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