Key Lime Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that sings with brightness, freshness, and a touch of indulgence, then this Key Lime Cake is exactly what your sweet tooth needs. Imagine layers of light, fluffy citrus cake infused with the zing of fresh lime zest and juice, perfectly paired with a luxuriously creamy lime cream cheese frosting. Every bite is a celebration of tart and sweet harmony, making this Key Lime Cake a stunning centerpiece for any occasion or simply a delightful treat to savor with your favorite cup of tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Key Lime Cake lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to build a tender, moist crumb and deliver that unmistakable tangy lime flavor, while the frosting brings a velvety sweetness with a hint of citrus.

• Canola or Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil that keeps the cake moist without overpowering the lime’s fresh flavor.
• Eggs: Essential for structure and richness, giving the cake a soft yet stable crumb.
• Whole Milk or Buttermilk: Adds moisture and reacts with baking powder for a tender crumb and slight tang.
• Fresh Lime Zest: Packed with natural citrus oils to brighten every forkful with authentic lime aroma.
• Fresh Lime Juice: Provides the signature tartness and helps tenderize the cake for perfect softness.
• Sugar: Balances the tart lime flavor with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Flour: The foundation of the cake’s fluffy texture.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Leavening agents that give the cake its airy rise and lightness.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Butter (softened): Used in the frosting to add richness and creaminess.
• Cream Cheese (softened): The star of the frosting, providing both tang and silky smoothness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting for perfect spreading and piping.
• Fresh Limes for Garnish: Thinly sliced for a beautiful finishing touch that adds freshness.

How to Make Key Lime Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, the perfect temperature to bake this delicate cake gently. In a large bowl, combine the oil, eggs, whole milk, fresh lime zest, and lime juice, then beat them together for about two minutes until everything comes together into a smooth, fragrant mixture. This step makes sure the lime flavor is evenly infused and the batter is silky and ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine

In a separate large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently but thoroughly. This careful mixing retains the airy texture while fully blending the flavors, ensuring your Key Lime Cake will be light and tender.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Grease your baking pans—you can use either two 9-inch pans or three 8-inch pans depending on the layer thickness you prefer. Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake: about 28-36 minutes for two 9-inch pans or 20-26 minutes for three 8-inch pans, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely, which is essential for that smooth frosting later.

Step 4: Make the Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

While the layers cool, whip up your frosting. Beat softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy, scraping the bowl frequently to avoid lumps. Gradually add powdered sugar, fresh lime juice, and lime zest, then mix until smooth and creamy. Pop it into the fridge to chill slightly before frosting the cake. This luscious, tangy frosting pulls the whole Key Lime Cake together with irresistible flavor and texture.

Step 5: Assemble and Frost

Remove the cake layers from their pans and, if you want a cleaner decorating experience, chill them in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up. Spread an even layer of frosting on one cooled cake layer, stack the next on top, and continue frosting the top and sides. Use a piping bag if you like to add beautiful swirls, then finish by garnishing with fresh lime slices for a burst of color and extra citrus charm.

How to Serve Key Lime Cake

Garnishes

Adding fresh lime slices, a sprinkle of lime zest, or even candied lime peels makes the Key Lime Cake look as delightful as it tastes. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a refreshing citrus aroma that complements every bite.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments that don’t compete with its vibrant flavor. A dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the dessert experience without stealing the spotlight from the lovely Key Lime Cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the cake as mini individual slices or even turn it into adorable cake pops by crumbling leftover cake and mixing it with frosting. Another fun idea is layering it in clear glass trifle dishes with lime curd and crushed graham crackers for a Key Lime layered dessert that will wow your guests visually and gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Key Lime Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When ready to enjoy again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften the frosting so each slice tastes fresh and heavenly.

Freezing

If you want to keep the joy for longer, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled, unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting. You can also freeze a fully frosted cake, but wrapping well to prevent freezer burn is key.

Reheating

Because this is a deliciously moist cake, reheating isn’t typically necessary and can be tricky without drying it out. Instead, simply let refrigerated slices reach room temperature or pair them with a warm beverage like tea or coffee to enhance the flavors without altering texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Absolutely! While key lime juice has a slightly more intense and floral tartness, regular lime juice works wonderfully and still creates that signature bright, refreshing flavor in this cake.

Should I refrigerate or freeze the cake layers before frosting?

Chilling the layers before frosting is a great tip for a cleaner, crumb-free finish. Refrigerate for 30-45 minutes or freeze lightly for about 20-30 minutes. It’s especially helpful if your cake is very soft or you want to apply a crumb coat first.

How do I thicken cream cheese frosting if it’s too soft?

Adding powdered sugar in ½ cup increments will firm up the frosting nicely, or pop it into the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let the butter and cream cheese chills for a firmer consistency.

What is a crumb coat, and should I use one?

A crumb coat is a thin layer of frosting applied first to lock in crumbs, helping you achieve a smooth final coat. It’s incredibly helpful for a polished look, especially with soft cakes like this Key Lime Cake.

How can I store leftover cake so it stays fresh?

Keep your cake airtight in the refrigerator for up to four days. Before serving, bring slices to room temperature to soften the frosting and enjoy the cake at its flavorful best.

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to make this Key Lime Cake soon — it’s one of those recipes that feels like a sunny celebration in every bite. The blend of zesty lime and creamy frosting is absolutely irresistible, making it a perfect choice for parties, special occasions, or simply treating yourself on any day. Once you try it, this Key Lime Cake will undoubtedly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire, just as it is in mine!

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