Coconut Key Lime Cupcakes

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Coconut Key Lime Cupcakes.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 12-cup muffin tin to ensure your delightful treats come out easily.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, combine sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, then set this aside for later.

3. Step 3

   In a larger bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat together white sugar and coconut oil until the mixture becomes light and airy—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a sweet aroma.

4. Step 4

   Next, add in the zesty Key lime juice, fragrant Key lime zest, and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing everything together until well combined.

5. Step 5

   Now, it’s time to introduce the eggs—add them one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition to create a smooth batter.

6. Step 6

   Lower the mixer speed to a gentle stir and gradually incorporate the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with milk.

7. Step 7

   Start and finish with the flour mixture, mixing just until everything is combined—remember, we want to avoid overmixing for that perfect texture.

8. Step 8

   Carefully pour the batter into your prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for a lovely rise.

9. Step 9

   Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly pressed.

10. Step 10

    Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which should take around 20 minutes.

11. Step 11

    While the cupcakes are cooling, let’s whip up a delicious cream cheese frosting.

12. Step 12

    In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and 1/4 cup of coconut oil until creamy and well blended.

13. Step 13

    Then, mix in the Key lime juice and zest, gradually stirring in confectioners' sugar until the frosting is smooth and irresistible.

14. Step 14

    Once your cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost them with this delightful cream cheese mixture.

15. Step 15

    For a finishing touch, take a nonstick skillet and toast some flaked coconut over medium heat for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns a lovely golden brown.

16. Step 16

    Remove it from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.

17. Step 17

    Finally, sprinkle the toasted coconut on top of your frosted cupcakes, gently pressing it in to create a beautiful and tasty topping.

18. Step 18

    Enjoy your tropical treat!.