Coconut Lime Bavarois: A Refreshing Sweet Delight
If you’re looking for an elegant dessert with a tropical twist, this Coconut Lime Bavarois is the perfect recipe. Combining the creamy richness of coconut with the tangy freshness of lime, it makes for an unforgettable treat. The preparation involves creating a delicious creamy bavarois layered on a delicate hazelnut biscuit, resulting in a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself, this dessert is guaranteed to elevate any occasion.
Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 24 hours (includes refrigeration time)
Ingredients
Biscuit Base:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hazelnut flour | 75g |
| Powdered sugar | 75g |
| Egg whites | 60g |
| Sugar | 100g |
| Lime zest | 1 |
| Salt | A pinch |
Bavarois:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coconut (shredded) | 300g |
| Heavy cream | 400g |
| Lime (zested) | 1 |
| Gelatin sheets | 12g |
| Egg yolks | 120g |
| Whole milk | 100g |
| Eggs | 150g |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Biscuit Base
- Prepare the Lime Garnish: Start by slicing the lime into thin 2mm slices. Sprinkle powdered sugar over them and set them aside to allow the sugar to dissolve and the lime slices to dry.
- Making the Biscuit: In a mixing bowl, combine the hazelnut flour and powdered sugar. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites, gently mixing with a spatula to preserve the airy texture.
- Baking the Biscuit: Line a baking sheet (30×40 cm) with parchment paper and spread the biscuit mixture evenly. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden. Allow it to cool and then cut it into rectangles slightly smaller than your baking dish, which will be used for assembling the bavarois.
Step 2: Preparing the Bavarois
- Soak the Gelatin: Begin by soaking the gelatin sheets in cold water for at least 10 minutes to soften.
- Make the Coconut Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and shredded coconut. Heat gently until it reaches a simmer, but don’t bring it to a boil. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Custard Base: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar and lime zest until smooth. Gradually pour the warm coconut mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly. This process helps temper the eggs, ensuring they don’t curdle.
- Add Gelatin: Squeeze the softened gelatin sheets to remove excess water and then stir it into the hot coconut custard mixture until fully dissolved.
- Cool the Mixture: Allow the mixture to cool down completely. Once it has cooled, you can fold in the whipped cream gently, being careful not to deflate the cream. Stir from the top down to keep the bavarois light and airy.
Step 3: Assembling the Coconut Lime Bavarois
- Prepare the Mold: Take a 22×9 cm loaf pan or any similar shape, and line it with plastic wrap or lightly grease it for easy removal.
- Layering: Pour a layer of the cooled coconut lime bavarois mixture into the mold. Place the pre-cut biscuit rectangles on top of the bavarois mixture to form a layer. Repeat the process, alternating between the bavarois and biscuit layers, ending with the bavarois.
- Freezing: Place the assembled dessert in the freezer and allow it to set overnight. This step helps the bavarois firm up and makes it easier to unmold.
Step 4: Serving
- Unmold the Bavarois: After it has frozen, remove the bavarois from the freezer. Let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. To unmold, run a knife along the edges of the mold, and gently invert the bavarois onto a serving platter.
- Decorate: Top the bavarois with the prepared lime slices for a zesty, visually appealing finish.
Tips for a Perfect Coconut Lime Bavarois
- You can prepare the biscuit base and lime decorations the day before assembling the bavarois to save time.
- Ensure that the gelatin is completely dissolved in the hot mixture for a smooth, creamy texture.
- If you’re in a rush, you can freeze the bavarois for a few hours and then refrigerate to speed up the setting time.
- For an extra touch, garnish the bavarois with toasted coconut flakes or candied lime zest.
Enjoy your Coconut Lime Bavarois!
This tropical dessert will surely become a favorite. With its creamy coconut base, light biscuit layer, and refreshing lime flavor, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and indulgent.
