Description: This Key Lime Cake is a delightful explosion of citrusy flavors, perfect for any occasion. The moist, tender cake is infused with the vibrant tang of key limes and topped with a luscious Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting that perfectly complements the cake’s zesty notes. From the first bite to the last, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a symphony of sweet and tart that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
Cake Ingredients:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 Tbsp key lime zest (about 4–5 key limes)
- ⅓ cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3½–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2–3 Tbsp key lime juice (adjust for taste & texture)
- 1 tsp key lime zest
- Pinch of salt
Preparation:
Before diving into the baking process, ensure all your ingredients are properly measured and prepared. Softening the butter and cream cheese is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy batter and frosting. Zesting the key limes before juicing them is easier, and using fresh key lime juice will provide the most authentic and vibrant flavor.
Instructions:
For the Cake:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can line the bottoms of the pans with parchment paper rounds for easy release. This simple step will save you from the heartbreak of a cake that clings to the pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures the ingredients are evenly distributed, which is essential for a consistent rise and texture. This step helps prevent pockets of baking powder or soda that could lead to an uneven cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process, known as creaming, should take about 3–4 minutes. It incorporates air into the mixture, which is crucial for creating a tender and airy cake. The mixture should become noticeably lighter in color and texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor:
Add the large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures each egg is fully incorporated into the batter, contributing to the cake’s structure and richness. Mix in the key lime zest, fresh key lime juice, and pure vanilla extract. These ingredients infuse the cake with its signature key lime flavor.
Step 5: Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. This technique helps prevent overmixing and ensures the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Bake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Spread the batter to ensure it reaches the edges of the pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cakes.
Step 7: Cool:
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely. This prevents the cakes from sticking to the pans and allows them to cool evenly. Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
For the Frosting:
Step 1: Beat Cream Cheese and Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for creating a lump-free frosting. Ensure both ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Sweetness:
Add the key lime zest, key lime juice, and a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture. Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Adjust the amount of key lime juice to achieve your desired tanginess and consistency. The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy.
Assembly:
Step 1: Layer and Frost:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick, even layer of the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting on top.
Step 2: Top and Frost:
Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 3: Garnish (Optional):
Garnish the cake with extra key lime zest, key lime slices, or crushed graham cracker crumbs for a pie-inspired touch. This step is optional but adds a beautiful finishing touch to the cake.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. The bright, tangy flavor of key limes, combined with the rich, creamy frosting, creates a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and decadent. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, celebrations, or simply when you need a little slice of sunshine in your day. The cake is moist, tender, and packed with flavor, and the frosting is the perfect complement, adding a touch of sweetness and tanginess. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Cut into individual slices and arrange on a platter for an elegant presentation.
- Serve as a dessert at a summer barbecue or garden party.
Tips:
- Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can lack the same vibrancy and tanginess.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter, as this can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth frosting.
- Sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps in the frosting.
- Adjust the amount of key lime juice in the frosting to your liking.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent the frosting from melting.
- If you don’t have key limes, you can substitute regular limes, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 25-30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 450-550 per slice
- Protein: 4-6 grams per slice
- Sodium: 200-300mg per slice
Conclusion:
This Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and impressive dessert that is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. The combination of the tangy key lime cake and the creamy, sweet frosting is simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious treat, this cake is the perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a slice of paradise!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular limes for key limes if you can’t find them. However, keep in mind that key limes have a more distinct and intense flavor. If using regular limes, you might want to add a bit more zest to compensate for the difference in flavor.
Q2: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?
A: To prevent the cake from sticking, grease and flour the cake pans thoroughly. Alternatively, you can line the bottoms of the pans with parchment paper rounds. This ensures easy release and prevents any part of the cake from sticking to the pan.
Q3: Can I make the cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked a day ahead of time, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and stored at room temperature. You can also make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature and re-whip it before frosting the cake.
Q4: What’s the best way to soften butter and cream cheese?
A: The best way to soften butter and cream cheese is to leave them at room temperature for about an hour before using. Avoid microwaving them, as this can cause them to melt unevenly. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces to help it soften faster.
Q5: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. You can also freeze the frosted cake, but make sure to freeze it uncovered for about an hour to harden the frosting before wrapping it in plastic wrap. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
