Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting
Who can resist a bite-sized treat that conjures up thoughts of sun-soaked beaches and tropical getaways? Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting are just that—a delightful escape into flavor with every fluffy bite! These cupcakes are moist, fragrant, and sweet, lavishly adorned with a zesty lime-infused frosting that perfectly complements the rich coconut flavor. Did you know that the combination of coconut and lime is not only a classic pairing in tropical desserts but also has roots in many cultures’ cuisines? It’s your passport to a mini tropical vacation right in your kitchen!
What makes these cupcakes even more appealing is their quick preparation time—perfect for a last-minute gathering or a fun baking day with the family. Plus, if you enjoy our other crowd-pleaser, Chocolate Chip Cookies, then this recipe will surely win your hearts as well! So grab your aprons and let’s get ready to bake something truly special together!
What are Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting?
Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting—now that’s a mouthful, isn’t it? I mean, who wouldn’t be curious about a sweet treat that has coconut AND lime involved? It’s almost as if they threw a beach party in a cupcake! But what’s behind this delightful name? Imagine fluffy cupcake clouds layered with the creamy goodness of buttercream frosting, infused with zesty lime. It’s like the desserts are telling you a playful secret: “You can dream of paradise and eat it too!” Remember, as they say, ‘The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.’ So why not impress everyone (including yourself) with this amazing recipe? Your taste buds will thank you for this fiesta!
Why You’ll Love These Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting
There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for these Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting. First and foremost, the cupcakes are incredibly moist and full of rich coconut flavor that lingers deliciously. They’re not just cupcakes; they’re mini tropical delights! Next up, making these beauties at home can save you some bucks compared to buying them from fancy bakeries (and believe me, they’re worth every penny!). Plus, the lime buttercream frosting is an absolutely show-stopping element that takes these cupcakes from great to truly irresistible. You might be tempted to just eat the frosting—go ahead, we won’t judge!
And if you’ve already indulged in our Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting, give these tropical wonders a try. They’re just a hop away from ordinary, and you might find your new favorite dessert!
How to Make Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting
Quick Overview
Making Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting is a breeze! With just a handful of ingredients and about an hour of your time, these tropical treats can be yours in no time. The key elements? Moist, fluffy cupcake bases infused with shredded coconut and a creamy lime buttercream frosting that’s as zesty as it is sweet! Let’s get started—your taste buds won’t wait for long!
Key Ingredients for Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting
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For the Coconut Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
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For the Lime Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners to prepare for the batter.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
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Cream the Butter: In another bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
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Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the coconut milk and vanilla extract, blending everything until smooth.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the shredded coconut to create a delightful texture.
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Bake the Cupcakes: Divide the cupcake batter evenly into the prepared liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool Down: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make the Lime Buttercream Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
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Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost them with the lime buttercream. You can even sprinkle some extra shredded coconut on top for added flair!
What to Serve with Coconut Cupcakes
These tropical Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with some refreshing drinks and sides can elevate your dessert experience. Consider serving them alongside a chilled glass of iced tea or a tropical smoothie for a bright complementary flavor. If you want something savory, try them with a light salad adorned with citrusy dressings. The contrast in flavors will make your treat even more enjoyable!
Top Tips for Perfecting Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting
To ensure your Coconut Cupcakes are perfectly fluffy and moist, avoid overmixing the batter—mix until just combined. Use fresh coconut milk for a richer flavor, and feel free to play around with the lime frosting by adding more zest for a more intense citrus kick! If you’re out of lime, you can substitute it with lemon juice for another refreshing twist. Don’t forget to check the cupcakes a minute or two before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Once you’ve made a batch of these delightful Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting, you might be wondering how to store the leftovers (if there are any!). Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be advised that refrigeration might alter the frosting’s texture. If you plan to freeze them, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave for a few seconds.
These Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting are a delicious treat that everyone will love. Whip up a batch today—your little taste of paradise awaits!

Coconut Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the coconut milk and vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the shredded coconut.
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable.
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the lime buttercream and sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top if desired.
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