Lime and coconut cake

Tangy Lime and Coconut Cake: A Tropical Delight

Introduction:

Lime and coconut cake is a delightful tropical treat that combines the zesty freshness of limes with the sweet, nutty flavor of coconut. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a slice of paradise. In this article, we'll guide you through a heavenly homemade lime and coconut cake recipe that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the tropics.

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Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

Zest of 2 limes

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1 cup buttermilk

For the Lime Syrup:

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lime (optional, for garnish)

Additional shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

For the Cake:

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Lime Zest:

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Stir in the lime zest, fresh lime juice, and vanilla extract.

Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Stir in the shredded coconut until the batter is well combined.

Bake the Cake:

Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make Lime Syrup:

While the cakes are baking, prepare the lime syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the fresh lime juice and granulated sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cool and Soak:

When the cakes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.

Carefully remove the cakes from the pans and place them on a wire rack.

While the cakes are still warm, brush them with the lime syrup to add extra moisture and flavor.

For the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting:

Prepare the Frosting:

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until well combined.

Stir in the shredded coconut and vanilla extract.

Frost the Cake:

Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of the coconut cream cheese frosting on top of one of the cakes.

Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish the cake with lime zest and additional shredded coconut if desired.

Slice, serve, and enjoy your tropical delight!

Usage Tips:

For an extra burst of lime flavor, you can add a bit more lime zest to the cake batter or the frosting.

If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cake or frosting to suit your taste.

Conclusion:

This homemade lime and coconut cake is a tropical paradise on a plate. With its tangy lime flavor, sweet coconut, and creamy frosting, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Serve it up, and transport your taste buds to a sunny, beachside getaway with every bite.