Description
Key Lime Cake is a zesty and refreshing dessert that combines tangy key lime flavor with a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting. This moist cake is perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings, offering bright citrus notes balanced by smooth sweetness. Its simple preparation and vibrant taste make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice
- Zest of 2 key limes
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender cake.
- Add eggs gradually: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate and maintain the emulsion.
- Incorporate key lime elements: Mix in the fresh key lime juice and zest, distributing the bright citrus flavor evenly throughout the batter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans, then remove them before applying the frosting to prevent melting.
- Prepare and apply frosting: Frost the cooled cakes with a smooth mixture of softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar, spreading evenly for a rich, creamy finish.
Notes
- Ensure all butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- Use fresh key lime juice and zest for the best authentic flavor.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator if not serving immediately to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
