If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances tangy citrus brightness with creamy sweetness, the Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This cake is a delightful celebration of fresh key lime juice and zest, bringing a refreshing burst of flavor throughout the soft, moist layers. The luscious cream cheese frosting, infused with the zing of key lime, wraps everything in a dreamy, velvety finish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a summer gathering or simply treating yourself, this cake is pure sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is easier than you might think, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this cake. From the richness of butter and cream cheese to the vibrant punch of fresh key limes, these essentials work harmoniously to make your dessert unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups): Provides structure and tenderness for the cake layers.
- Baking powder (1 ½ tsp): Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
- Baking soda (½ tsp): Assists with leavening and browning for a soft crumb.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup softened + ½ cup softened): Adds richness and moisture to both the cake and frosting.
- Granulated sugar (1 ¾ cups): Sweetens the cake while creating a tender crumb.
- Large eggs (4): Bind ingredients and add structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp + 1 tsp): Brings warmth and depth to the cake and frosting.
- Fresh key lime juice (¼ cup + 2 tbsp): Infuses the cake and frosting with zesty citrus brightness.
- Key lime zest (zest of 2 + zest of 1 lime): Concentrates the lime flavor and aroma perfectly.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Cream cheese (8 oz softened): Creates that creamy, tangy frosting that complements the lime flavors beautifully.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups): Sweetens the frosting while helping it achieve a fluffy texture.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
How to Make Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them, or line them with parchment paper. This simple preparation ensures your cakes will come out cleanly and maintain their perfect shape.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is essential to evenly distribute your leavening agents and seasoning, giving your cake the best texture and rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Grab your mixer and cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This process traps air, making your cake tender and moist.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add the vanilla extract, fresh key lime juice, and key lime zest, mixing just until combined. This is where the magic begins, as the signature lime flavor starts infusing the batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to your wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overbeat, which keeps your cake tender and light.
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cakes bounce back when gently pressed.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here ensures your frosting doesn’t melt when you assemble the cake.
Step 8: Make the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fluffy. Stir in the fresh key lime juice, lime zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If the frosting feels too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach the perfect spreadable consistency.
Step 9: Assemble and Frost the Cake
Spread a generous layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the sides and top of the cake smoothly. For a finishing touch, garnish with a sprinkle of lime zest or thin slices of lime to highlight the fresh citrus vibe.
How to Serve Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Adding lime zest, thin slices of fresh key limes, or even edible flowers makes this cake look as delightful as it tastes. These small touches bring extra color and a hint of zing right to the presentation, making every slice feel like a special occasion.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a refreshing balance, a light mixed berry salad or a citrusy sorbet would be excellent companions to complement the tartness of the key lime.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn this classic cake into cupcakes or layers in a trifle? You could also add a drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for texture and additional flavor twists. Serving slices with a sprig of mint elevates the freshness and adds a pop of vibrant green.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the frosting fresh and the cake moist for up to 3-4 days, preserving that bright key lime taste perfectly.
Freezing
You can freeze the un-frosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and assembling. If you want to freeze the fully assembled cake, flash freeze it uncovered first, then wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese frosting. Simply let refrigerated slices sit out for 20 minutes for the best flavor and softness.
FAQs
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Absolutely! While key limes have a unique tartness and aroma, regular limes can be a good substitute and still deliver a lovely citrus flavor in this recipe.
How do I prevent my frosting from being runny?
If your frosting feels too soft, try chilling it for 15-20 minutes before using it. Also, gradually adding powdered sugar while beating helps you control the consistency perfectly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking is possible, but results might vary slightly. Make sure to check that other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Is this cake suitable for a birthday celebration?
Definitely! Its vibrant flavor and pretty presentation make it a fantastic choice for birthdays, especially if you love a fresh twist on traditional cakes.
How many layers does this Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe have?
This recipe makes two 9-inch round layers, perfect for a classic two-layer cake that’s great for sharing with family and friends.
Final Thoughts
Once you experience the zing and sweetness of the Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a standout dessert. Its perfect combination of tart lime and creamy frosting is utterly irresistible and guaranteed to brighten any occasion. Don’t hesitate to dive into this luscious cake and share it with your loved ones—happiness guaranteed in every bite!
Print
Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This refreshing Key Lime Cake features a moist and tender cake infused with fresh key lime juice and zest, perfectly complemented by a rich and tangy key lime cream cheese frosting. Ideal for celebrations or a delightful dessert, this cake balances citrus brightness with creamy sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup fresh key lime juice (about 4–5 key limes)
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh key lime juice
- Zest of 1 key lime
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Flavors: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, fresh key lime juice, and key lime zest to infuse the cake batter with citrus flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the whole milk into the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fill Cake Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make Frosting Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating continuously until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
- Flavor the Frosting: Mix in fresh key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the frosting until everything is well combined for a balanced tangy sweetness.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve your desired spreading consistency.
- Frost First Layer: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of the first cake layer using an offset spatula or knife.
- Assemble and Frost Entire Cake: Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining key lime cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out evenly.
- Garnish (Optional): Decorate the frosted cake with additional lime zest or thin lime slices for a beautiful and fresh presentation.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh key limes if available; regular limes can be substituted but will alter the signature key lime taste.
- Ensure cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the frosting.
- You can prepare the cake layers a day ahead and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap; frost just before serving.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting to control sweetness and texture.
- Store the cake refrigerated due to the cream cheese frosting; bring to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
