How to Make the Famous Tom Cruise Coconut Cake at Home

If you’ve ever wondered what dessert Hollywood’s biggest stars indulge in, look no further than the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake. This legendary treat, originally crafted by Doan’s Bakery in Los Angeles, has become a celebrity holiday tradition, gifted by Tom Cruise himself to A-list friends every year. Known for its rich, buttery flavor, velvety white chocolate, and toasted coconut topping, this cake has earned its reputation as the ultimate Hollywood dessert.

But what makes this cake so special? Its moist texture, creamy sweetness, and perfectly balanced coconut flavor set it apart from regular coconut cakes. Whether you’re a fan of Tom Cruise, a coconut lover, or just someone looking for an indulgent homemade cake, this recipe is for you!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making the famous Tom Cruise Coconut Cake at home. From the must-have ingredients to expert baking tips and creative variations, you’ll be able to recreate this star-approved dessert in your own kitchen. Get ready to experience the Hollywood-favorite coconut cake like never before! 🍰✨

What is the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake?

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is not just any ordinary dessert—in fact, it’s a Hollywood icon in the form of a cake. Known for its luxurious texture, this moist and flavorful white chocolate coconut cake has gained legendary status among celebrities, thanks to its association with Tom Cruise himself. Every holiday season, the Mission Impossible star personally selects and sends this indulgent coconut cake as a gift to his famous friends. As a result, it has become one of the most talked-about celebrity desserts in Hollywood.

But what exactly makes this cake so special? Let’s dive into its origins, why celebrities love it, and what sets it apart from other coconut cakes.

The Story Behind the Hollywood-Famous Cake

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake was originally created by Doan’s Bakery, a small, family-run bakery in Woodland Hills, California. Initially, it was just another delicious cake on their menu. However, everything changed when Tom Cruise made this cake his go-to holiday gift for his A-list friends, catapulting it into the spotlight.

Rather than opting for a traditional fruitcake or cookies, Cruise chose to send something truly unique—a rich, moist, coconut-infused white chocolate bundt cake. Since that moment, it has become a beloved holiday tradition among Hollywood’s biggest stars, including:

• James Corden
• Kirsten Dunst
• Jimmy Fallon
• Henry Cavill
• Angela Bassett
• Rosie O’Donnell
• Cobbler Reese Witherspoon

Every year, celebrities eagerly wait for their “Tom Cruise Cake” delivery, with many posting about it on social media, making it even more famous.

Why is This Cake So Popular Among Celebrities?

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is more than just a gift from a superstar—it’s a seriously delicious cake that lives up to the hype. Here’s why celebrities rave about it:

• Unforgettable Flavor – The cake is made with rich, high-quality ingredients, featuring sweetened coconut flakes, creamy white chocolate, and a moist, buttery cake base.
• Perfectly Balanced Texture – Unlike traditional coconut cakes that can be too dry or crumbly, this cake remains ultra-moist and tender with every bite.
• Rich White Chocolate Twist – The addition of white chocolate chips in the batter and the smooth, velvety frosting give it a gourmet touch.
• Irresistible Coconut Topping – Each cake is coated with a layer of shredded coconut, adding a satisfying texture and beautiful presentation.

For Hollywood’s elite, this is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of exclusivity, luxury, and indulgence.

What Makes This Coconut Cake Special?

There are plenty of coconut cake recipes, but what sets the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake apart is its distinct combination of flavors and textures. Here’s what makes it one-of-a-kind:

1. The White Chocolate Base – Most coconut cakes rely on vanilla or butter cake, but this one incorporates white chocolate, adding a silky richness to the crumb.
2. The Perfect Bundt Shape – Baked in a classic bundt pan, this cake has a beautiful, evenly baked texture, ensuring every slice is moist and tender.
3. The Signature Coconut Coating – The entire cake is rolled in sweetened coconut flakes, creating a crunchy exterior that complements the soft interior.
4. The Celebrity Hype – Unlike ordinary cakes, this one comes with a Hollywood backstory, making it a must-try for dessert lovers and pop culture fans alike.

Final Thoughts on the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake isn’t just famous because of its Hollywood connections—it’s a truly spectacular dessert that delivers on taste, texture, and indulgence. Its buttery, coconut-rich flavor, combined with the elegance of white chocolate and the perfect bundt cake structure, makes it one of the most sought-after cakes in celebrity circles.

Now that you know why this cake is so iconic, let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions so you can recreate this Hollywood favorite at home! 🍰

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

Creating the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake at home requires the right blend of ingredients to achieve its rich, moist, and luxurious texture. After all, this isn’t just any coconut cake—rather, it’s a white chocolate coconut bundt cake that has become a Hollywood sensation.

To ensure authenticity, recreating the famous Doan’s Bakery recipe requires high-quality ingredients that enhance the buttery, sweet, and coconut-infused flavors. With that in mind, below, we break down the essential components that make this cake truly special.

Essential Ingredients for the Cake Base

The base of this cake is a moist, buttery, white chocolate-infused sponge that melts in your mouth. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 ¾ cups) – The foundation of the cake, providing structure while keeping it tender.
• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – The key to a rich, buttery texture that keeps the cake moist.
• Granulated Sugar (2 cups) – Adds sweetness and helps create a delicate crumb.
• Eggs (5 large eggs) – Provide structure and help with leavening.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the overall flavor profile.

💡 Pro Tip: Using room-temperature butter and eggs ensures that the ingredients blend smoothly, creating a more even and tender crumb.

Key Ingredients for the Coconut Flavor

The signature coconut flavor in the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake comes from a combination of ingredients that add both moisture and richness:

• Coconut Milk (1 cup) – Keeps the cake extra moist while enhancing the tropical flavor.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut (1 ½ cups, divided) – Used inside the cake and as a final coating for that classic Doan’s Bakery look.
• White Chocolate (6 oz, finely chopped) – The secret ingredient that makes this cake extra decadent and smooth.

💡 Pro Tip: To maximize the coconut flavor, toast a portion of the shredded coconut before adding it as a topping. This will enhance the nuttiness and give the cake a slight crunch.

Frosting & Toppings to Recreate the Original Cake

While the original Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is known for its simplicity, its frosting and toppings add a luxurious finishing touch.

For the Creamy Frosting:

• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Adds a tangy contrast to the sweet cake.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened) – Blends with the cream cheese for a smooth, velvety frosting.
• Powdered Sugar (2 cups, sifted) – Sweetens the frosting without making it too dense.
• Coconut Extract (½ teaspoon, optional) – Intensifies the coconut aroma.

For the Signature Coconut Coating:

• Sweetened Shredded Coconut (1 cup, for rolling) – Gives the cake its iconic coconut-covered exterior.

💡 Pro Tip: For an extra glossy look, lightly brush the cake with coconut syrup or simple syrup before applying the shredded coconut—this will keep it extra moist.

Alternative Ingredient Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions or want to customize the cake, here are some ingredient swaps:

Gluten-Free Adaptation – A Simple Swap:

If you need a gluten-free version, simply replace regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Additionally, if the blend lacks xanthan gum, adding ½ teaspoon will help improve the texture and structure of the cake. This small adjustment ensures that the cake remains light and fluffy despite being gluten-free.

Dairy-Free Alternative – Keeping It Creamy:

For those avoiding dairy, swapping butter for vegan butter or coconut oil is an excellent option. Moreover, instead of heavy cream, using full-fat coconut cream guarantees that the cake retains its richness. As a result, this dairy-free version tastes just as indulgent as the original.

A Healthier Twist – Reducing Sugar Without Sacrificing Flavor:

To make this cake a bit healthier, consider reducing the sugar by ½ cup for a lighter sweetness. Furthermore, substituting butter with Greek yogurt keeps the cake moist while lowering fat content. Not only does this make the cake a healthier option, but it also adds a slight tangy flavor that pairs well with coconut.

Final Thoughts on the Ingredients for Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is famous for its incredible flavor and texture, and without a doubt, the key to recreating it successfully lies in using the right ingredients. From the very first bite, the combination of moist coconut milk and creamy white chocolate blends seamlessly with the buttery cake base and coconut coating. Ultimately, every element plays a role in making this dessert worthy of its Hollywood status.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making this iconic cake!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to recreate the legendary Tom Cruise Coconut Cake. This moist, rich, and coconut-infused white chocolate cake is a Hollywood favorite, and by following this guide, you’ll be able to bake it perfectly at home.

This step-by-step breakdown will ensure you achieve a light, fluffy, and flavorful coconut cake, just like the one from Doan’s Bakery that Tom Cruise gifts to his celebrity friends every year.

Step 1 – Preparing the Cake Batter

A perfectly moist and soft cake starts with a well-mixed batter. Follow these steps for flawless texture and flavor:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) – A lower baking temperature helps the cake bake evenly without drying out.
2. Grease a bundt pan (10–12 cup capacity) with butter and dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter and 2 cups granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter.
4. Add 5 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth batter without curdling.
5. Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor.

Step 2 – Adding the White Chocolate & Coconut Elements

The white chocolate and coconut combination is what makes this cake stand out from other coconut cakes.

1. Melt 6 oz of white chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup coconut milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
4. Fold in 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut for extra texture and the melted white chocolate for an added creamy sweetness.

Step 3 – Baking the Cake to Perfection

Baking the cake at the right temperature and for the right time is crucial to achieving the moist, tender texture that this cake is famous for.

1. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
3. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
4. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

💡 Pro Tip: If the top of your cake is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 4 – Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the smooth and creamy frosting that adds the perfect balance of tangy sweetness to the coconut cake.

1. In a bowl, beat 8 oz cream cheese and ½ cup unsalted butter together until smooth and fluffy.
2. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, beating until well incorporated.
3. Stir in ½ teaspoon coconut extract for enhanced coconut flavor.
4. If the frosting is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of coconut milk until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

💡 Pro Tip: Let the frosting sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before using it. This helps it firm up, making it easier to spread.

Step 5 – Frosting & Garnishing the Cake

The final touch that makes the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake so iconic is its signature coconut-coated exterior.

1. Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the entire cake using an offset spatula.
2. Take 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut and gently press it onto the frosting, covering the entire cake.
3. For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly toast some of the shredded coconut and sprinkle it on top.

💡 Pro Tip: Toasting the coconut adds a slightly nutty flavor and a golden color, making the cake even more delicious and visually appealing.

Step 6 – Serving & Storing the Cake

Once your Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is beautifully frosted and covered in coconut, it’s time to serve and enjoy this Hollywood-worthy dessert.

How to Serve:

• Slice the cake into even portions and serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Pair it with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the perfect treat.

How to Store:

• Refrigerate: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze: You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil before freezing.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature before frosting. This allows the flavors to deepen.

Final Thoughts on Making the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

This Tom Cruise Coconut Cake recipe is a true showstopper—a moist, coconut-infused white chocolate cake topped with a luxurious cream cheese frosting and a coconut coating. With its celebrity-approved status and irresistible flavors, this cake is perfect for special occasions, holiday celebrations, or when you simply want to indulge in something extraordinary.

Now that you’ve mastered the step-by-step process, it’s time to grab your ingredients and bake this famous Hollywood dessert at home!

Variations & Tips for the Best Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is already an iconic dessert, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add your own twist to make it even more special! Whether you’re looking for a healthier version, a dairy-free option, or extra flavors to enhance the cake, this section will give you creative variations and pro tips to achieve the best coconut cake possible.

How to Make It Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free

If you have dietary restrictions but still want to enjoy this celebrity-favorite coconut cake, here’s how you can easily adapt the recipe:

Dairy-Free Version:

Swap out dairy-based ingredients for plant-based alternatives without sacrificing flavor or texture.

• Butter → Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil – Keeps the cake moist while enhancing the coconut flavor.
• Milk → Coconut Milk or Almond Milk – Coconut milk is the best alternative for maintaining a creamy, tropical taste.
• Cream Cheese Frosting → Dairy-Free Cream Cheese or Cashew Cream – Many plant-based cream cheese options work just as well.

Gluten-Free Version:

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur’s Flour work well.
• Add ½ teaspoon xanthan gum if your gluten-free flour doesn’t already contain it—this helps the cake hold its structure.
• Be mindful that gluten-free cakes can be more delicate, so let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Making a Healthier Version of the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

Want to enjoy this indulgent cake without the guilt? Try these health-conscious modifications:

• Reduce the sugar – Cut down the sugar by ½ cup without compromising sweetness.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of butter – Swap out half the butter for plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat while keeping the cake moist.
• Opt for unsweetened coconut – If using shredded coconut, choose an unsweetened version to lower sugar content.
• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour – This will add fiber and nutrients, but the texture may be slightly denser.
• Add nuts for extra protein – A handful of chopped almonds or pecans can add a nutritious crunch.

Even with these adjustments, your Tom Cruise Coconut Cake will still be rich, flavorful, and utterly delicious!

Fun Flavor Twists to Try

While the original Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is perfect as it is, you can always experiment with new flavors and combinations to make it even more exciting.

1. Piña Colada Coconut Cake

• Add ½ cup crushed pineapple into the batter for a tropical twist.
• Replace vanilla extract with ½ teaspoon rum extract for a subtle piña colada flavor.
• Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry for decoration.

2. Chocolate Coconut Cake

• Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey spin.
• Fold in dark chocolate chips for extra richness.
• Drizzle with melted dark chocolate before serving.

3. Lemon Coconut Cake

• Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy kick.
• Swap vanilla extract for lemon extract to enhance the tangy notes.
• Top with a lemon glaze instead of cream cheese frosting for a fresh taste.

4. Toasted Coconut Cake

• Toast the shredded coconut before rolling it onto the cake to create a nutty, caramelized flavor.
• Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness.

5. Almond Coconut Cake

• Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty depth.
• Add ¼ cup finely chopped almonds for extra crunch.
• Use almond flour for a gluten-free variation with a rich, nutty undertone.

With these variations, you can customize your Tom Cruise Coconut Cake to suit any occasion or personal taste!

How to Store & Serve the Cake for Maximum Freshness

Proper storage is key to keeping your coconut cake moist and flavorful. Follow these storage tips to ensure your cake stays as delicious as the day you made it.

How to Store the Cake:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Keep the cake refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• In the Freezer:
  • Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Frosted cakes can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the cake separately and add the frosting after thawing.

Best Ways to Serve the Cake:

• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a balanced flavor pairing.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Garnish with fresh berries for a contrast of flavors.
• Drizzle with caramel or white chocolate sauce for added decadence.

Final Tips for the Best Tom Cruise Coconut Cake

To achieve the perfect coconut cake, keep these expert tips in mind:

1. Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smoother batter and an even texture.
2. Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can result in a dense, chewy cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
3. Check for doneness with a toothpick – Insert a toothpick into the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
4. Let the cake cool before frosting – If you frost a warm cake, the cream cheese frosting may melt and slide off.
5. For extra moisture, brush the cake with coconut syrup – This keeps it moist and flavorful for days.

Final Thoughts on Variations & Tips for the Best Coconut Cake

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is already legendary, but with these tips and variations, you can take it to a whole new level. Whether you want to make it dairy-free, gluten-free, healthier, or add a fun flavor twist, there are endless ways to customize this Hollywood-favorite dessert.

No matter how you prepare it, one thing is certain—this moist, rich, and coconut-infused cake will always be a show-stopper! 🍰✨

Now that you have all the tips and variations, it’s time to start baking and enjoy a slice of Hollywood’s most famous cake!

Conclusion: Why You Need to Try the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake Recipe

The Tom Cruise Coconut Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a Hollywood sensation that has delighted celebrities and cake lovers alike. Known for its moist, buttery texture, creamy white chocolate, and coconut-covered exterior, this cake has become a star in its own right, earning a place among the most coveted gifts in Hollywood.

By following this detailed recipe, you can now recreate the famous Doan’s Bakery coconut cake in your own kitchen and enjoy the same indulgent flavors that A-list celebrities rave about every holiday season. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday gathering, or simply craving a luxurious coconut cake, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why This Coconut Cake is Worth the Hype

If you’re still wondering whether to try this Tom Cruise Coconut Cake recipe, here’s why you absolutely should:

• It’s rich, moist, and loaded with coconut flavor, just like the original.
• The white chocolate addition makes it extra indulgent.
• It’s easier to make than you think, with step-by-step instructions ensuring a perfect result.
• You can customize it with fun variations, from piña colada to chocolate coconut twists.
• It’s a celebrity-approved dessert—if it’s good enough for Tom Cruise’s A-list friends, it’s definitely worth trying!

Final Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your homemade Tom Cruise Coconut Cake turns out just as perfect as the original, keep these final baking tips in mind:

1. Use high-quality ingredients – The better the butter, coconut, and white chocolate, the richer the flavor.
2. Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
3. Let the cake cool before frosting – If the cake is still warm, the cream cheese frosting will melt.
4. Toast the coconut for extra flavor – A quick toasting in the oven enhances the coconut’s natural sweetness.
5. Store it properly – Keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Try It and Share Your Experience!

Now that you know everything about the Tom Cruise Coconut Cake, it’s time to bake, taste, and enjoy this Hollywood-famous dessert!

We’d love to hear about your experience—Did you follow the classic recipe? Did you add your own twist? How did it turn out?

📌 Leave a comment below and share your thoughts, tips, or any fun variations you tried!

🍰 Ready to bake? Grab your ingredients and enjoy a slice of Hollywood history today!