When the sun shines bright and days get longer, key limes bring a burst of flavor. This key lime cake recipe captures the essence of summer. It has moist layers and a rich cream cheese frosting that will make your taste buds happy.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This key lime cake recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- The tender, moist cake layers are infused with the bright, citrusy taste of key limes.
- The creamy cream cheese frosting gets its intense lime flavor from homemade key lime curd.
- This cake is perfect for spring and summer celebrations or any occasion when you crave a refreshing, tropical-inspired dessert.
- The recipe is easy to follow, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
Introducing the Perfect Key Lime Cake Recipe
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this divine key lime cake recipe. This citrusy delight strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. It creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Balanced Sweet and Tangy Flavors
The key lime cake layers are infused with a subtle key lime flavor. This flavor complements the sweet vanilla undertones. The homemade key lime curd, folded into the cream cheese frosting, adds an intense burst of zesty lime.
This perfectly offsets the sweetness of the cake. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors. It will leave you craving more with every bite.
Light and Fluffy Texture
One of the standout features of this key lime cake is its incredibly light and fluffy texture. The cake layers are soft and tender. They have a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth.
The creamy, silky-smooth frosting further enhances the overall mouthfeel. It creates a delightful contrast between the moist cake and the rich topping.
“This key lime cake is a flavor masterpiece, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart that is sure to delight your senses.”
Key Ingredients for Key Lime Cake
To make this tasty key lime cake, you need a special list of ingredients. The main ingredient is key lime juice and zest, which give it a zesty flavor. You’ll also need flour, butter, oil, and vanilla extract for the cake.
The frosting is made with cream cheese and homemade key lime curd. This adds a rich lime taste. Powdered sugar is used to make the frosting light and fluffy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Key Lime Juice | 1/2 cup (118 ml) |
| Key Lime Zest | 1 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 cups (375 g) |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (113 g) |
| Vegetable Oil | 1/4 cup (60 ml) |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cream Cheese | 8 ounces (226 g) |
| Powdered Sugar | 4 cups (500 g) |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious key lime cake. It’s perfect for impressing your loved ones.
Preparing the Cake Batter
To make the tasty key lime cake batter, start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a big bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a bit of salt. This makes sure the batter is light and fluffy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In another bowl, mix the softened butter and oil until smooth.
- Add the key lime zest and wet ingredients – eggs, vanilla, and key lime juice – one at a time. Mix well after each.
- Then, add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the mix, one at a time. Mix just until combined. Don’t overmix.
- Split the batter evenly between your cake pans. Make sure they’re all filled the same for even baking.
Tips for Perfect Mixing
- Use all room temperature ingredients for the best results.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough cake.
- Grease and flour the cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Use a handheld or stand mixer for easier mixing.
By following these key lime cake baking process and tips for mixing key lime cake, you’ll get a perfect batter. Get ready for the joy of key lime cake preparation!
Baking the Key Lime Cake
To bake the perfect key lime cake, follow the instructions closely. First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, whether they’re 8-inch rounds or a 9×13-inch sheet pan.
The key lime cake baking instructions are simple. Pour the cake batter into the pans and bake. For 8-inch rounds, bake for 22-25 minutes. For a 9×13-inch sheet pan, bake for 27-30 minutes. The cakes are ready when a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
Be careful with the key lime cake baking time and temp. Baking too long can make the cake dry. Baking too short will leave it uncooked. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before frosting.
| Cake Pan Size | Baking Time | Baking Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 8-inch rounds | 22-25 minutes | 350°F (175°C) |
| 9×13-inch sheet pan | 27-30 minutes | 350°F (175°C) |
Remember, baking a perfect key lime cake takes patience. Take your time and follow the instructions. You’ll get a moist and flavorful cake.
key lime cake recipe
Get ready to indulge in the refreshing flavors of a delicious key lime cake. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful cake. It combines sweet and tangy notes, perfect for any occasion.
Key Lime Cake Ingredients
- 3 cups (384 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (63 grams) plus 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
- 1/4 cup (58 grams) cream cheese, room temperature
- 2.5 cups (500 grams) granulated sugar
- 6 eggs
- 3/4 cup (173 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Key Lime Cake Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the key lime juice and zest.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cakes have cooled, you can assemble and frost them with a creamy key lime cream cheese frosting. This makes for a truly indulgent treat.
“This key lime cake is a tantalizing blend of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for any citrus lover.”
Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients and Method
Key lime cake needs a special friend – a smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting. This frosting is easy to make and pairs perfectly with your homemade cake. It adds a rich texture and a burst of citrus that balances the cake’s sweetness.
To make this frosting, you’ll need a few ingredients: softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, key lime juice, and zest. Beat the cream cheese and butter until they’re light and fluffy. Then, add the powdered sugar slowly, mixing until it’s all combined. Finish by adding the key lime juice and zest, until the frosting is smooth and even.
The frosting’s perfect texture comes from the right mix of ingredients. Use 8 ounces of cream cheese, 4 ounces of butter, and 5-6 cups of powdered sugar. The 2 tablespoons of key lime juice and 1 teaspoon of zest add a tangy citrus flavor that complements the cream cheese.
Once the frosting is made, it can be stored in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. This makes it easy to prepare ahead of time. When you’re ready, spread or pipe it between the cake layers and over the top and sides for a beautiful finish.
“The key lime cream cheese frosting is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, elevating the refreshing flavors of the key lime cake to new heights.”
Assembling and Decorating
Bringing your delectable key lime cake to life is a delightful process. It requires a bit of care and attention. Let’s dive into the steps to assemble and decorate this refreshing dessert to perfection.
Layer Stacking Technique
Start by placing the first cake layer on your serving plate or cake board. Spread approximately 1/2 cup of the creamy key lime cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Gently stack the next layer on top, repeating the frosting process until all your cake layers are neatly stacked.
Frosting and Garnish Ideas
- Use the remaining key lime cream cheese frosting to coat the outside of the cake in a thick, even layer, creating a smooth, professional finish.
- Press graham cracker crumbs up the sides of the cake for a lovely textural contrast. The graham cracker crunch recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of crumbs, 1/4 cup milk powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, combined with 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1/4 cup heavy cream.
- Finish with decorative swirls of whipped cream on top, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh lime zest for a vibrant, eye-catching presentation.
With these key lime cake decorating ideas, your freshly baked creation will be a showstopper. It will impress guests with its beautiful layers, creamy frosting, and crunchy graham cracker elements.
Storage and Freezing
Keeping your key lime cake fresh is crucial. The cream cheese frosting is perishable, so it needs to stay chilled. Store the frosted cake in a covered container or airtight bag for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cake layers for 2 months. Wrap them in plastic and foil to avoid freezer burn. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and assembling.
Freezing the frosted cake is also possible. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. This ensures the frosting stays smooth and creamy.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated, Frosted Cake | Up to 5 days |
| Frozen, Unfrosted Cake Layers | Up to 2 months |
| Frozen, Frosted Cake | Up to 2 months (thaw in refrigerator overnight before serving) |
By following these tips, you can enjoy your key lime cake for longer. Savor its delicious flavors whenever you want.
Variations and Substitutions
This key lime cake recipe uses key limes, but you can swap them with regular limes if you can’t find key limes. The zest will still give you that lime taste, even if the juice isn’t as tart. You can also choose from a whipped cream or buttercream frosting instead of the creamy cream cheese frosting.
This key lime cake recipe is very flexible. You can bake it in 9-inch pans or as cupcakes. Just adjust the baking time to fit your needs. This way, you can make it look just right for any event.
Ingredient Swaps
- Regular limes can be used in place of key limes for a slightly less tart flavor.
- Whipped cream or buttercream frosting can be substituted for the cream cheese frosting.
Cake Pan Variations
- Bake the cake in 9-inch round pans for a classic layer cake presentation.
- Prepare the batter as cupcakes for a convenient, individual serving option.
Choosing any of these variations or substitutions will still make this key lime cake a hit. It’s known for its perfect mix of sweet and tart, along with its light, fluffy texture.
| Ingredient | Original Recipe | Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| Limes | Key limes | Regular limes |
| Frosting | Cream cheese frosting | Whipped cream or buttercream |
| Baking Pan | 8-inch rounds | 9-inch rounds or cupcakes |
Serving Suggestions
This delectable key lime cake is a true delight. It can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether chilled or at room temperature, it impresses with its bold, citrusy flavor and light, fluffy texture.
Pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a great idea. The cool, refreshing contrast between the cake and ice cream is indulgent. A dollop of freshly whipped cream also adds a silky, cloud-like element to the cake.
The cake’s bright, tangy notes are perfect for summer gatherings and spring celebrations. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dessert for any occasion. Its refreshing qualities are ideal for outdoor parties, picnics, or as a light dessert after a full-course meal.
No matter how you serve this key lime cake, it’s sure to be a hit. Its versatility and delicious flavor make it a must-try for key lime lovers.
| Serving Suggestions | Key Lime Cake Pairing Ideas | What to Serve with Key Lime Cake |
|---|---|---|
| Chilled or at room temperature | Vanilla ice cream | Freshly whipped cream |
| Summer gatherings | Stabilized whipped cream | Graham cracker crumbs |
| Spring celebrations | Lime zest sprinkles | Citrus slices (lime, lemon, orange) |
The key lime cake’s vibrant flavors and textures make it versatile. Experiment with different serving suggestions and pairings to find your perfect match!
“The bold citrus flavor of this key lime cake makes it a refreshing choice for any occasion where you want to impress with a bright, flavorful dessert.”
Conclusion
This key lime cake recipe is a perfect mix of sweet and tart. It has a light, fluffy texture that’s a joy to eat. The homemade key lime curd in the cream cheese frosting adds a deep citrus taste that goes well with the cake.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a taste of the Florida Keys or a refreshing summer dessert. This cake is sure to wow anyone who tries it.
The cake is easy to make and looks impressive. It’s a mix of moist cake, tangy curd, and creamy frosting. This combination will make your guests talk about it for a long time.
So, why not make this key lime cake for yourself and your loved ones? It’s a way to enjoy summer all year. It’s a delightful treat that will make everyone happy.
This recipe uses 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk and bakes for 25 minutes. It’s going to be a hit with your family. Serve it chilled with fresh lime slices and powdered sugar for a burst of citrus flavor.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a special treat, this key lime cake is a must-try. It’s a dessert that will make a lasting impression on everyone who tries it.
F.A.Q
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What are the key ingredients in this key lime cake recipe?
This key lime cake recipe includes key lime juice and zest. It also has all-purpose flour, butter, and oil. Vanilla extract, cream cheese, and powdered sugar are also key ingredients.
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How do you prepare the key lime cake batter?
Start by whisking dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add softened butter, oil, and key lime zest. Mix in eggs, vanilla, and key lime juice.
Combine the dry and wet ingredients alternately with buttermilk. This makes the batter easy to mix. -
What is the baking time and temperature for this key lime cake?
Bake the cake at 350°F. It takes 22-25 minutes for 8-inch pans or 27-30 minutes for a 9×13-inch sheet pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
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How do you make the key lime cream cheese frosting?
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Then, add powdered sugar gradually. Mix in key lime juice and zest for a strong citrus flavor.
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How do you assemble and decorate the key lime cake?
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread about 1/2 cup of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
Finally, frost the outside with a thick layer of frosting. Decorate with graham cracker crumbs and whipped cream swirls. Top with lime zest. -
How long will the key lime cake last and can it be frozen?
Store the cake in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese frosting. It lasts up to 5 days. You can also freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months.
The frosted cake can be frozen too. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. -
Can I substitute regular limes for key limes in this recipe?
Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are not available. The zest will still give you the lime flavor. But, the juice might be less tart.
