Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that once you place your cupcakes in, they will bake evenly. Prepare a cupcake pan with 24 liners so everything is ready to go.
In a large bowl, combine 2 3/4 cups all purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp baking soda. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter using a mixer until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cupcake.
Add 1 1/2 cups sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the butter. Continue to beat the mixture until everything is well combined and smooth.
Now, add 4 eggs to the mixture, one at a time. This allows each egg to fully incorporate before adding the next, ensuring a well-mixed batter.
Next, alternate adding half of the dry ingredients you mixed earlier with half of 1 cup buttermilk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can make your cupcakes tough.
Repeat the previous step with the remaining dry ingredients and buttermilk. Finally, mix in 2/3 cup cream of coconut, giving the batter that delicious coconut flavor.
Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
Bake for approximately 15 to 19 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cupcakes should bounce back when lightly pressed.
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting, in a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup softened butter and 6 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese. Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add in 1 tsp vanilla, 3 cups powdered sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Finally, stir in 1/2 cup cream of coconut and 1 cup sweetened flake coconut. This will give your frosting a delightful coconut flavor and texture.
Frost the cooled cupcakes and garnish with extra toasted coconut for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your delicious creations!
