### Introduction
Indulge in the tropical flavors of sunshine with this irresistible Coconut Lime Cake. Perfectly moist and bursting with the refreshing zest of lime, this cake is a dessert lover’s dream. With a delightful combination of coconut and lime cream, it’s ideal for gatherings, birthdays, or a simple family treat. Get ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise!
### Ingredients
**For the Cake:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 large eggs
– Zest of 2 limes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:**
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– Zest of 1 lime
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish
### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, shredded coconut, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk well to ensure there are no lumps.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes, using an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients**: To the butter mixture, add the coconut milk, eggs, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
5. **Combine Mixtures**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Divide and Bake**: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. **Cool the Cakes**: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges and turn the cakes out onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. **Prepare the Frosting**: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
9. **Assemble the Cake**: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of lime cream cheese frosting on top. Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
10. **Garnish**: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top of the frosted cake for added flavor and texture.
11. **Serve**: Slice and serve the cake chilled or at room temperature.
### Tips
– For an extra tropical touch, you can add diced fresh pineapple between the layers of frosting.
– To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
– You can add lime zest to the cake batter for an extra zing.
### Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this Coconut Lime Cake by itself, or serve it with a scoop of coconut sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Pair it with a refreshing tropical drink like a sweet iced tea or a piña colada for a complete tropical-inspired experience.
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