Name: Key Lime Coconut Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice ((from 3 medium limes)); 3 tbsp granulated sugar; 3/4 cup warm water; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cold sour cream (full fat); 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice ((from 2 medium limes)); 1 tbsp lime zest ((from 2 medium limes)); 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut ((7 oz))

Imagine sinking your fork into a moist, tropical Key Lime Coconut Cake, bursting with zesty lime flavor and the rich sweetness of coconut. This cake is perfect for any celebration, from summer barbecues to elegant dinner parties. With its vibrant flavors and airy texture, it’s bound to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dessert that brings the tropics to your kitchen!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Key Lime Coconut Cake is the epitome of a crowd-pleaser. Its tangy lime flavor balances beautifully with the sweet, chewy coconut, creating a dessert that feels both refreshing and indulgent. The vibrant green from the lime juice and zest adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing. Plus, the combination of cream cheese and sour cream in the frosting yields a luxurious, velvety finish that complements the light cake perfectly. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering, this cake is sure to be a hit!

What You’ll Gather

6 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from 3 medium limes)
3 tbsp granulated sugar
3/4 cup warm water
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
16 oz cold sour cream, full fat
3 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed (from 2 medium limes)
1 tbsp lime zest (from 2 medium limes)
2 cups (7 oz) sweetened shredded coconut

Equipment Breakdown

Mixing Bowls: For mixing your ingredients.
Whisk: To ensure your batter is smooth and well-combined.
Baking Pan: A 9-inch round cake pan works best for even baking.
Electric Mixer: For whipping the cream cheese and sour cream frosting to perfection.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for precise ingredient measurements.
Cooling Rack: To cool your cake properly before frosting.

Cook Key Lime Coconut Cake Like This

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Add in the 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp of baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.

Step 3: Add the Lime Juice and Water

In a separate bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice with 3/4 cup of warm water and stir. Gradually pour this mixture into your batter, mixing gently until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add the 16 oz of cold sour cream, 3 tbsp of freshly squeezed lime juice, and 1 tbsp of lime zest. Beat until the mixture is well combined and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting on top. Sprinkle the 2 cups of sweetened shredded coconut over the frosting, pressing it gently into the surface for a beautiful finish.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Slice, serve, and enjoy this tropical delight!

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

In warm weather, serve it cold from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
In cooler months, pair your Key Lime Coconut Cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
Consider adding a layer of homemade whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Underbaking: Ensure your cake is fully baked by checking with a toothpick. If it comes out wet, bake for a few more minutes.
Frosting Too Runny: If your frosting is too thin, add a bit more cream cheese to thicken it up.
Coconut Not Sticking: Press the coconut into the frosting gently, or use a bit of extra frosting to help it adhere.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Key Lime Coconut Cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days, but the flavors improve as it sits! If you have leftovers, you can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month. Just allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my cake sinks in the middle?

This could be due to underbaking or too much liquid in the batter. Ensure your oven is preheated and check your cake for doneness before removing it.

Can I use lime juice from a bottle?

While fresh lime juice is preferred for the best flavor, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. Just be aware that the taste might not be as vibrant.

What if my frosting is too sweet?

If you find the frosting too sweet, you can add a splash more lime juice to balance the sweetness with acidity.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just ensure you store it properly in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the steps and tips to create your own Key Lime Coconut Cake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Embrace the tropical flavors and enjoy each slice of this cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging alone or sharing with friends, this cake promises to brighten your day and tantalize your taste buds. Happy baking!