Description
Key Lime Coconut Tartlets are mini-sized desserts that feature a tangy key lime filling set in a coconut-infused graham cracker crust. They are topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, and garnished with a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra zing. These tartlets bring together the sweet and tart flavors of key lime with the tropical essence of coconut, making them an ideal choice for any tropical-themed party or casual dessert.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Crust:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers)
½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Pinch of salt
For the Key Lime Filling:
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
4 large egg yolks
½ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled — Nellie & Joe’s is great)
1 tbsp lime zest
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For Topping:
¾ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
¼ tsp coconut extract or vanilla extract
Toasted coconut flakes or lime zest, for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Coconut Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, sugar, melted butter, and salt.
Mix until well coated and sandy in texture.
Press mixture firmly into the bottoms and sides of mini tart pans or a muffin tin lined with paper cups.
Bake for 7–9 minutes, until golden and fragrant.
Let cool slightly while preparing the filling.
2. Make the Key Lime Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lime zest until thick (1–2 minutes).
Whisk in sweetened condensed milk and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Pour filling evenly into the prepared tart shells.
3. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes (mini tartlets) or 15 minutes (full tart), until the filling is just set — it should jiggle slightly in the center.
Remove and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill completely.
4. Make the Coconut Whipped Cream
In a cold mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and coconut (or vanilla) extract until soft peaks form.
Dollop or pipe onto chilled tartlets.
5. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with toasted coconut and lime zest.
Optional: add a thin lime slice twist for a beautiful presentation.
Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
For a tropical twist, garnish the tartlets with toasted coconut flakes and a thin lime zest spiral. Serve chilled for a refreshing, zesty dessert perfect for summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tartlet
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Key Lime Coconut Tartlets