Description
This Key Lime Cake is a moist and tangy dessert that combines the zesty flavor of key limes with a sweet cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the warmer months.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice
- 2 tablespoons key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter, oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, key lime juice, and zest until combined.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between 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.
Prepare the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Mix in the key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with additional key lime zest or slices, if desired.
Notes
- If key limes are not available, regular limes can be used as a substitute.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- For a more intense lime flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lime extract to the batter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Key Lime Cake, Citrus Dessert, Cream Cheese Frosting, Lime Cake Recipe