Best Key Lime Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

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“The key lime cake recipe blends the tangy freshness of lime with sweet, moist layers, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, creating a refreshing and popular dessert for spring and summer occasions.”

Best Key Lime Cake Recipe

I love baking for my family, and one dessert we really love is the key lime cake recipe. I found this recipe when I was looking for something special to make for my sister’s birthday.

I came across a recipe that promised a cake with a perfect mix of tangy lime flavor and sweet, moist layers. I was curious and decided to give it a try, hoping it would be a hit at my sister’s celebration.

As I gathered the ingredients and started baking, I felt excited about sharing this new dessert with my family. The smell of fresh lime filled the kitchen as the cake baked in the oven, making me even more eager to try it.

When the cake was done, I carefully put it together, layering each soft and fluffy cake with a thick spread of creamy cream cheese frosting. The bright green color of the cake layers and the yummy smell of lime made it hard to wait any longer.

When we finally sat down to celebrate my sister’s birthday, the key lime cake was a big hit. Each bite was filled with tangy lime flavor and creamy frosting, and everyone wanted more.

Since then, the key lime cake recipe has become a favorite in our family. We bake it for birthdays, holidays, or simply when we’re in the mood for a sweet treat. It always brings us joy and makes us smile.

As I keep baking for my family, I treasure the moments we share around the table, enjoying laughter, stories, and delicious desserts like our beloved key lime cake. It’s more than just a dessert. It’s a symbol of love, togetherness, and the happiness of family life.

Key Lime Cake Recipe Ingredients

For Key Lime Cake

Granulated Sugar: Makes the cake batter taste sweeter.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps the cake hold its shape.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and makes the flavor better.
Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise by acting as a leavening agent.
Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise and neutralizes the acidity of the lime juice.
Lime Flavored Gelatin: Add flavor and color to the cake batter.
Eggs: Gives the cake its shape and keeps it moist.
Vegetable Oil: Helps to keep the cake moist and adds richness.
Orange Juice: Adds flavor and acidity to the cake batter.
Lemon Juice: Adds acidity and enhances the citrus flavor.
Key Lime Juice: Provides a distinct lime flavor to the cake.
Vanilla Extract: Helps make the cake taste and smell better.

For Cream Cheese Lime Frosting

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the icing.
Cream Cheese: Provides creaminess and tanginess to the icing.
Confectioner’s Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing.
Key Lime Juice: Adds flavor and acidity to the icing.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the icing.
Green Food Coloring (optional): Adds color to the icing.
Lime Zest: Adds a fresh citrus flavor and garnish to the cake.

How to Make Key Lime Cake Recipe

For Key Lime Cake

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and lime-flavored gelatin.
In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then add vegetable oil, orange juice, lemon juice, key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Pour the batter evenly into each of the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then carefully invert them onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

For Cream Cheese Lime Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add confectioner’s sugar, mixing well after each addition, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Add key lime juice and vanilla extract to the frosting, mixing until fully incorporated.
If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring for a vibrant green hue.

Assembly

After the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
Evenly spread a layer of frosting over the top of the cake layer.
Place another cake layer on top and repeat the process, spreading frosting evenly over the second layer.
Finally, place the third cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Garnish the top of the cake with lime zest for added flavor and decoration.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving. Then, savor and enjoy your delightful Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Lime Frosting.

Expert Tips for this Recipe

Level Your Cakes: After baking, ensure your cake layers are level by trimming any domed tops with a serrated knife. For sunken tops, leave them be and fill the cavity with frosting.
Frosting Distribution: Use an angled spatula to evenly distribute frosting between layers. Measure roughly equal amounts for each layer to maintain consistency.
Crumb Coat: Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting to the sides of the assembled cake. Chill for at least 30 minutes to set the coat before applying the final layer of frosting.
Smooth Frosting Technique: For a clean finish, frost the cake with a thick layer of frosting. Use a cake knife to smooth the sides and top evenly.
Decorating Ease: Chilling the cake between frosting steps makes it easier to handle and decorate without smudging or melting.
Avoid Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the cake batter, as it can result in a tough texture.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Key Lime Cake Recipe

What is the difference between lime and key lime?

Key limes, also referred to as Mexican limes or West Indian limes, are smaller and more aromatic than regular limes. They have a thinner rind, higher acidity, and a more intense, floral flavor compared to regular limes. Key limes are commonly used in desserts like Key Lime Pie and Key Lime Cake for their distinct taste.

How should I store the Key Lime Cake?

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your Key Lime Cake recipe creation. If your cake is garnished with whipped cream, it should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent the cream from spoiling. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. If the cake is not garnished with whipped cream, it can be stored at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them.

Can I freeze the Key Lime Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the Key Lime Cake for future enjoyment. To freeze the cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. The Key Lime Cake can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes for the Key Lime Cake recipe?

While Key limes are traditionally used for Key Lime Cake, you can substitute regular limes if Key limes are not available. Keep in mind that regular limes have a slightly different flavor profile, being less tart and aromatic compared to Key limes. To achieve a similar taste, you may need to adjust the amount of lime juice or zest used in the recipe. Despite the difference, using regular limes can still result in a delicious Key Lime Cake with a refreshing citrus flavor.

Is Key Lime sweet or sour?

Key Lime is known for its distinctive combination of sweetness and tartness. In the Key Lime Cake recipe, the tartness of the Key lime juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of the cake and frosting. This balance creates a delightful harmony of flavors, making the Key Lime Cake a refreshing and indulgent dessert option.

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