Lemon Coconut Cream Cupcakes
1 box lemon cake mix
1 package lemon instant pudding
1 cup creme de cacao
1/4 cup oil
8 oz sour cream
2 tsp coconut extract
I use a kitchenaid mixer for all my baking and typically beat cupcakes & cakes until they’re super stiff. I did that for this recipe and then filled cupcake liners 3/4 full and popped into a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes or so.
The main key is to check often after the 15 minute mark and do the usual tests: Is the top dry and springy to the touch? Does a toothpick inserted in the center come out dry? Are the edges just starting to turn golden?
I removed from the oven, cooled on a wire rack for 45 minutes or so then put in an airtight container until I frosted them in the AM.
Coconut Cloud Frosting
1 1/2 cups whipping cream 8 oz cream cheese 1 3/4 cups confectioners sugar 1/8 tsp salt 2 tsp coconut extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
Again, use the kitchenaid. Put the mixing bowl and the whipping attachment in the freezer overnight to ensure that they’re cold. Cream doesn’t whip well in warm bowls.
Whip the cream until stiff peaks form.
In a separate bowl, cream the cream cheese and remaining ingredients until very smooth, beat to incorporate air until it’s light and fluffy. About the consistency of marshmallow fluff.
Carefully fold the 2 bowls together, do not overmix or you’ll lose volume.
Add frosting to a piping bag, frost cupcakes, and sprinkle each with a bit of coconut.
Time to Create: 24 hours. 1 hour to prep cupcakes, 30 minutes to prep frosting, plus requisite time for cooling, frosting and cleanup.
Time to Concept: 3 weeks? I’ve been thinking of something with lemon and coconut for weeks, but mulled it over for a long time to really nail down what I wanted. Given that I’m attempting these again this weekend with some modifications to the cupcake recipe, maybe I’m not technically done concepting ;)
Time to Consume: These were a huge hit at a BBQ. All the cupcakes were gone, none were left 1/2 eaten. I’d give them an 8, but it’s my own perfection that’s holding me back. Per the above, I’m attempting again this weekend with some modifications. The taste was superb, but the cupcakes didn’t have the height that I want. Check back next week for an improved version!
