Coconut Lime Cupcakes Delight

Name: Coconut Lime Cupcakes Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup coconut milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup coconut flakes; Zest of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon lime juice

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love indulging in these Coconut Lime Cupcakes Delight! The combination of luscious coconut and zesty lime creates an irresistible flavor that transports me to a tropical paradise with every bite. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a summer gathering or just a sweet treat at home. Topped with fluffy coconut-lime frosting, they're a delightful burst of flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you so you can experience their deliciousness too!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-05T18:17:30.682Z

When I first decided to make these Coconut Lime Cupcakes Delight, I knew I wanted a recipe that highlighted the refreshing contrast between coconut and lime. After testing a few variations, I found that using coconut milk in the batter gave them an incredibly moist texture, while the lime juice and zest added a vibrant burst of flavor.

One of the best parts about these cupcakes is their frosting. I used a cream cheese base to balance the sweetness, and added both coconut flakes and lime zest for an extra dimension of flavor. Trust me, these cupcakes will be a highlight of any gathering!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Deliciously moist with a unique tropical twist
Lime zest adds a refreshing zing that brightens every bite
Perfect for parties, warm weather, or when you just need a sweet treat

Mastering the Coconut Lime Flavor

The combination of coconut and lime in these cupcakes isn’t just delightful; it’s a matched pair that elevates the flavor profile. Coconut milk adds moisture and subtle sweetness, while the lime juice and zest bring bright acidity, balancing the richness. When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, be sure to incorporate them gently to prevent overworking the batter, which can lead to denser cupcakes. You want light, airy cakes that rise beautifully.

Choosing high-quality coconut products significantly impacts the flavor and texture. I prefer using unsweetened shredded coconut for a natural taste without added sugars that can make the batter too wet. Additionally, using fresh lime juice rather than bottled juice can enhance the overall freshness of the cupcakes. Zesting the lime just before use ensures that you extract maximum essential oils, contributing to a vibrant lime flavor.

Frosting Tips for the Perfect Finish

The cream cheese frosting is where you can truly express creativity. Start by ensuring the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature, which helps achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. When combining the ingredients, mix on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud and then increase to medium until fluffy and glossy. This will give your frosting a light texture that beautifully contrasts with the moist cupcake.

For a more pronounced coconut flavor in your frosting, consider folding in some toasted coconut flakes instead of plain ones. Toasting them in a skillet over low heat until golden brown brings out their nuttiness and enhances the overall tropical vibe of the cupcakes. Also, if you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute some cream cheese with Greek yogurt, which will impart tanginess while reducing fat.

Ingredients

Cupcake Batter

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 lime
2 tablespoons lime juice

Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup coconut flakes
Zest of 1 lime
1 tablespoon lime juice

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the coconut milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, lime zest, and lime juice.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fill the Tin

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make Frosting

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, lime juice, and zest, mixing until creamy.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with coconut flakes.

Pro Tips

For an extra tropical touch, sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the frosting before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Coconut Lime Cupcakes can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for busy schedules. After baking, allow the cupcakes to cool completely before wrapping them in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for a week. Just be mindful that refrigeration can make cupcakes slightly denser, so bringing them back to room temperature before serving is advisable.

If you want to frost the cupcakes later, store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, if you want to freeze them, do so before frosting. Place the cooled cupcakes in a single layer within a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before decorating.

Variations to Explore

While the classic coconut lime flavor combination is outstanding on its own, you can easily customize these cupcakes. For chocolate lovers, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter for a rich contrast, or include chocolate chips for an extra decadent touch. Pairing this chocolate addition with a lime-infused ganache instead of frosting can create a unique and delicious flavor experience.

Another fun variation is to incorporate fresh tropical fruits into the cupcake batter or as a topping. Diced pineapple can add extra moisture and sweetness, while passion fruit can provide an exciting tart element that complements the lime. You can even create an island-themed dessert buffet by offering different frostings like mango or passion fruit to pair with your coconut lime base for a delightful twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?

Yes, sweetened coconut can be used but may increase the overall sweetness of the cupcakes.

→ How can I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these cupcakes in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake and freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to a month.

→ What other flavors can I combine with coconut?

Mango and pineapple are also excellent flavor pairings with coconut.