Imagine a dessert that transports you to a sun-drenched beach with every single bite - where crispy, golden puff pastry meets the tangy brightness of key lime and the tropical crunch of toasted coconut. These Coconut Crusted Key Lime Napoleons are not just a dessert; they're a culinary escape that transforms an ordinary moment into an extraordinary experience. With layers of delicate pastry, creamy lime-infused filling, and a coconut crunch that will make your taste buds dance, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package puff pastry sheets
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheets at room temperature for about 20 minutes until they're pliable but still cool.
- Unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut each sheet into 8 equal rectangular pieces using a sharp knife.
- Sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut evenly over each pastry rectangle, gently pressing the coconut into the surface to help it adhere.
- Place the coconut-coated pastry rectangles on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are not touching.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the coconut is lightly toasted. Remove and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- While the pastry cools, prepare the key lime filling. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and key lime juice to the whipped cream, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form and the mixture is smooth.
- Once pastry is completely cool, carefully slice each rectangle horizontally to create two layers.
- Pipe or spread the key lime cream between the pastry layers, creating a napoleon-style layered dessert.
- Garnish the top with additional toasted coconut or a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set.
Tips
- Keep your puff pastry cold but pliable - this ensures maximum flakiness and beautiful layers.
- Use fresh key lime juice for the most vibrant, authentic flavor.
- When whipping cream, start with cold cream and a chilled bowl for the best volume.
- Don't overmix the cream filling to maintain its light, airy texture.
- For a professional presentation, use a piping bag when adding the cream between layers.
- Allow the napoleons to chill before serving to help the layers set and flavors meld.
- For extra elegance, garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar or toasted coconut flakes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 309kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 38mg
