Coconut Lime Fruit Parfaits

Coconut Lime Fruit Parfaits are a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and creamy textures, making them an ideal dessert for warm-weather gatherings or a refreshing treat any time of the year. This no-bake dessert layers tangy lime-infused pudding with fluffy whipped cream and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These parfaits are not only visually appealing but also offer a burst of tropical flavors in every spoonful. The combination of zesty lime and rich coconut provides a refreshing taste, while the layered presentation makes it perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a personal indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Water
• Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Egg yolks
• Key lime juice
• Coconut extract
• Green food coloring (optional)
• Whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Graham crackers, coarsely crushed

Directions

1. Prepare the Water Mixture: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
2. Whisk the Egg Yolks: While the water sits, place the egg yolks in a bowl and whisk them together until well blended. Set the bowl aside.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the sugar and cornstarch. Whisk them together until evenly mixed.
4. Combine and Cook: Add the sugar and cornstarch mixture to the warm water, whisking until well blended. Place the saucepan back over medium heat and whisk constantly until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
5. Temper the Egg Yolks: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add a couple of spoonfuls of the hot mixture to the whisked egg yolks, stirring well. Repeat with a few more spoonfuls to temper the eggs, preventing them from scrambling.
6. Finish the Pudding: Add the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining pudding mixture. Whisk together until smooth. Whisk in the lime juice, coconut extract, and food coloring until the mixture reaches a nice shade of green. Set aside to cool.
7. Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well blended.
8. Layer the Parfaits: Give the lime pudding a final whisk before assembling. In 5 mini trifle dishes or similar containers, layer graham cracker crumbs, whipped cream, and lime pudding. Repeat the layers, leaving some whipped cream for topping and a little graham cracker to sprinkle on top.
9. Finish and Refrigerate: Pipe or spoon the remaining whipped cream on top of each parfait and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs. Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5
• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Toasted Coconut Topping: Add toasted coconut flakes between the layers or as a garnish on top for added texture and enhanced coconut flavor.
• Alternative Crust: Substitute graham crackers with crushed digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies for a different base flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the pudding for a varied citrus profile.
• Berry Addition: Layer in fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries for added freshness and color.

Storage/Reheating

These parfaits can be prepared up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They are best enjoyed within 2 days, as the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly over time. Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture of the pudding and whipped cream layers.

FAQs

What type of lime juice should I use?

Key lime juice is preferred for its distinct tart flavor, but regular lime juice can also be used if key limes are unavailable.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the parfaits up to a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated until ready to serve to ensure the layers stay fresh and the flavors meld together.

How do I prevent the egg yolks from curdling when tempering?

To prevent the egg yolks from curdling, gradually add the hot pudding mixture to them, whisking continuously. This process, called tempering, helps to raise the temperature of the yolks slowly without cooking them.

Can I use a different type of cookie or crumb for the layers?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with other types of cookies or crumbs, such as shortbread or digestive biscuits. This allows you to customize the parfaits to your liking.

How do I get smooth and even layers in the parfaits?

To achieve smooth and even layers, use a piping bag or spoon to add each layer to the dishes carefully. Gently tap the dishes on the counter to settle the layers before adding the next one.

Can I add other toppings to the parfaits?

Yes, feel free to get creative with additional toppings, such as toasted coconut flakes or fresh berries, for extra flavor and texture. You could also garnish it with some lime zest.

How do I store leftover parfaits?

Store any leftover parfaits in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, but the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the whipping cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream, and use a plant-based butter substitute in the pudding.

Is it necessary to use food coloring?

No, the food coloring is optional and used primarily for visual appeal. The natural color of the pudding is a pale yellow-green.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Coconut Lime Fruit Parfaits offer a refreshing and indulgent dessert option that combines the tropical flavors of coconut and lime in a creamy, layered presentation. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, these parfaits are perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a personal treat. With the flexibility to customize layers and toppings, this dessert can be tailored to suit various tastes and occasions.

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