Mix together coconut, sour cream, sugar and Cool Whip.
Spread mixture between layers and outside of cake or entire mixture on top of 9 x 13 cake.
Seal tight with foil or airtight container.
Refrigerate for a minimum of 24 hours.
Can be kept for up to 3 days.
You MUST use airtight container if saving for 3 days.
Can sprinkle more coconut on top and decorate with maraschino cherries.
The Chemistry of the Rest
How long should a layered sponge sit before slicing? Resting this dessert for a minimum of 24 hours allows the high-fat dairy mixture to migrate directly into the crumb. Sugar draws moisture outward, softening the cake structure significantly by the 72-hour mark. Seal the exterior tightly in a rigid container to prevent refrigerator odors from penetrating the dairy fats.
Moisture Management Strategies
Sour cream provides lactic acid that tenderizes gluten strands during mixing, yielding a fine crumb structure. Whipped topping acts as a stable emulsion shield, holding excess liquid in suspension without weeping. Ensure the sponge cools completely to room temperature before applying the filling, or the fat content will liquefy and slide off the layers.
Fresh Versus Preserved Elements
Dry packaged shreds offer a concentrated texture that resists dissolving entirely into the cream. Fresh grated drupe yields a brighter aroma and higher moisture content, which requires reducing the accompanying sour cream by two tablespoons to maintain structural integrity. Toasting half the garnish yields nutty notes that balance the sweetness of the remaining raw flakes.