Description

This Key Lime Cake with a Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the sweet and tangy flavor of key limes. Perfect for any occasion, this cake combines the vibrant citrus flavor of key limes with the rich creaminess of cream cheese frosting. The light, moist cake and the zesty frosting make this dessert a refreshing and delightful choice for all.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• ½ cup fresh key lime juice
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh key lime juice
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F or 175°C and prepare two 9-inch cake pans.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
3. Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in lime zest and juice.
6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Beat cream cheese and butter in a large bowl until smooth.
10. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
11. Add lime juice, zest, and vanilla, beating until smooth.
12. Adjust frosting consistency with lime juice or powdered sugar as needed.
13. Place the first cake layer on a platter and frost the top.
14. Add the second layer and frost the entire cake, smoothing the top and sides.
15. Optionally garnish with lime zest or slices.

Tips and Conclusion

Make Ahead: The cake and frosting can be made ahead of time. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: If you need to freeze the cake, you can freeze the unfrosted layers for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil. Frost the cake after it’s thawed.

Lime Variations: For a more intense lime flavor, feel free to use more lime zest in both the cake and frosting. You can also adjust the sugar depending on how sweet or tart you want the final cake.

This Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect dessert for any citrus lover. The light, moist cake combined with the creamy and tangy frosting makes for a refreshing treat that is not too sweet but full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a summer party, or just because, this cake is sure to be a hit. The fresh, zesty key lime flavor makes it an unforgettable dessert, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked!