Coconut Lime Tart – Creamy, Zesty & Tropical No-Bake Dessert

Coconut Lime Tart is a bright, tropical dessert that combines creamy coconut filling with fresh, tangy lime for the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors. Set in a buttery tart crust, this dessert is smooth, refreshing, and full of sunshine in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy tropical coconut flavor
  • Bright and zesty lime filling
  • No-bake or easy bake option
  • Smooth, silky texture
  • Perfect for summer desserts
  • Elegant bakery-style presentation
  • Make-ahead friendly
  • Refreshing and not too heavy
  • Great for entertaining guests
  • Simple ingredients with big flavor

Ingredients

Flat lay of limes, coconut, eggs, butter, and tart ingredients

For the Tart Crust

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons ice water

For the Coconut Lime Filling

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For Topping

  • Whipped cream
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Lime zest
  • Lime slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

Four step collage showing tart crust prep, baking, lime curd cooking, and decorating

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles crumbs.
  4. Add egg yolk and ice water to form dough.
  5. Chill dough for 30 minutes.
  6. Roll dough and press into tart pan.
  7. Prick bottom with a fork.
  8. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until lightly golden.
  9. Cool completely before filling.
  10. In a saucepan, whisk coconut milk, cream, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch.
  11. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
  12. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, lime zest, vanilla, and salt.
  13. Let filling cool slightly.
  14. Pour filling into cooled tart shell.
  15. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
  16. Top with whipped cream, coconut flakes, and lime slices before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Use fresh lime juice for best flavor
  • Toast coconut flakes for extra depth
  • Chill tart overnight for best texture
  • Add graham cracker crust for easier version
  • Use coconut cream for richer filling
  • Do not overcook custard mixture
  • Strain filling for extra smoothness
  • Add a touch of white chocolate for sweetness
  • Serve very cold for best consistency
  • Garnish just before serving

Storage & Freezer Instructions

  • Store in refrigerator up to 4 days
  • Keep tightly covered to prevent drying
  • Best served chilled
  • Do not leave at room temperature for long
  • Can freeze without toppings for up to 1 month
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Slice of coconut lime tart with creamy lime curd and coconut crust

  • Fresh tropical fruit
  • Iced coconut latte
  • Sparkling lime water
  • Summer BBQ meals
  • Brunch dessert table
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Afternoon tea
  • Light dinner parties
  • Beach-themed events
  • Vanilla ice cream scoop

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make coconut lime tart ahead of time?

Yes, it is best made the day before to allow the filling to fully set.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is strongly recommended for the best bright citrus flavor.

Why didn’t my filling set?

It may not have been cooked long enough to activate the cornstarch and egg yolks.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes, a pre-made tart crust or graham cracker crust works well for convenience.

Ready to Make It?

Coconut Lime Tart is creamy, tropical, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. With its silky coconut filling and zesty lime finish, it’s the perfect dessert for warm days and special occasions.

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Coconut lime tart with glossy lime curd and toasted coconut topping

Coconut Lime Tart


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  • Author: Myla
  • Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A creamy coconut lime tart with silky tropical filling and a buttery tart crust.


Ingredients

Scale

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup butter

1 egg yolk

2 tablespoons ice water

1 can coconut milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup sugar

3 egg yolks

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/4 cup lime juice

1 tablespoon lime zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions

1. Prepare and bake tart crust.

2. Cook coconut filling until thick.

3. Add lime juice and zest.

4. Pour into cooled crust.

5. Chill until set.

6. Top and serve.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice.

Do not overcook filling.

Chill completely before slicing.

Toast coconut for extra flavor.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 27 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

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